In a decision that could have strong resonance in future malpractice lawsuits against guardians ad litem, a judge has ruled that the Defender Association of Philadelphia can’t be sued over claims that one of its attorneys allegedly “colluded” with officials to have a couple’s child removed from their home.

Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Judge Abbe Fletman sustained the association’s and defender Patrice Langenbach’s preliminary objections to the couple’s lawsuit. The judge held in an apparent issue of first impression that court-appointed guardians ad litem are immune from malpractice suits.