At Best Interest Advocacy, we believe every child deserves to feel safe, heard, and supported — especially during some of the most difficult moments a family can face.

Our work as Guardians ad Litem is grounded not only in professional training and advocacy experience, but also in lived experience. We understand firsthand how overwhelming and emotionally complex family court proceedings can be for both children and parents. That perspective shapes how we approach every case: with compassion, careful listening, objectivity, and deep respect for the people involved.

Our Approach

We believe effective advocacy begins with trust.

Children need adults who will listen without judgment. Families deserve professionalism paired with humanity. Courts need thoughtful, balanced recommendations grounded in the best interests of the child.

Our role is to provide independent, child-focused advocacy that helps courts make informed decisions while ensuring children feel seen, supported, and protected throughout the process.

We approach each case with:

• Compassion and empathy

• Trauma-informed practices

• Clear communication

• Professional integrity

• A commitment to stability, safety, and long-term wellbeing for children

Matthew Melendez

Matthew Melendez brings a lifelong background in education, communication, and community advocacy to his work as a Guardian ad Litem.

In addition to extensive leadership experience in nonprofit organizations, education, and public engagement, Matthew has spent years working directly with children, families, schools, and vulnerable populations throughout Washington State. His professional work has centered on creating environments where young people feel connected, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Matthew’s background includes graduate work focused on community wellbeing, social connection, and human development, as well as decades of experience navigating complex interpersonal systems with empathy and professionalism. His personal experience navigating family court has further deepened his commitment to ensuring children’s voices and needs remain at the center of every decision.

He believes children do best when they are surrounded by stability, emotional safety, and adults willing to truly listen.

Jill McKnight

Jill McKnight brings a deeply compassionate, trauma-informed perspective to her work as a Guardian ad Litem.

An Erickson Professional Certified Coach, motivational speaker, and advocate, Jill specializes in supporting individuals and families rebuilding their lives after trauma, domestic violence, and difficult life transitions. With a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a bachelor’s degree from University of Washington, she combines professional expertise with powerful lived experience.

Having personally navigated the challenges of trauma, abuse, separation, and rebuilding, Jill understands the emotional realities many families face during high-conflict transitions. Her work is grounded in empathy, resilience, and the belief that healing and stability are possible.

Through her coaching, speaking, and podcast, Life After: From Surviving to Thriving, Jill has helped many people move from crisis toward confidence, safety, and hope. As a Guardian ad Litem, she brings that same thoughtful, balanced, and child-centered care to every case she serves.

Our Commitment

We know that family court proceedings can feel overwhelming for everyone involved — especially children.

Our commitment is to approach every case with professionalism, compassion, and integrity while keeping the child’s wellbeing at the center of the process. We strive to create a space where children feel heard, families feel respected, and courts receive thoughtful, objective recommendations designed to support the healthiest possible outcomes.