What is a Guardian ad Litem?
A guardian ad litem is not the same as a guardian. A guardian ad litem is appointed by the court for a special purpose. The appointment is usually when there is litigation occurring where the minor or incompetent adult’s rights are at issue and he or she needs an unbiased person looking out for his or her best interests. The role of the guardian ad litem will end as soon as the litigation (he or she was appointed for) has concluded. A guardian ad litem is fulfilling a job for which they are compensated. This job has certain responsibilities that must be satisfied, such as representing the child or incapacitated adult’s best interests, remaining fair, ethical and professional, completing his or her own investigation of the facts, keeping records up to date for the court, keeping qualifications/licensing up to date and avoiding any conflicts of interest. Copyright © 2008 FindLaw, a Thomson Reuters business DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for inform
A guardian ad litem is appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a respondent in a proceeding as the court deems necessary. The court must specify the duties of the guardian ad litem upon the appointment. In adult guardianship cases, a guardian ad litem usually does not continue to serve after appointment of a guardian.
A guardian ad litem is an attorney appointed by the court to represent the alleged incapacitated person. The GAL will interview them and present their position to the court. In addition, they will interview the court visitor and the proposed guardian, as well as family members and care providers. They will also interview the qualified health care professional and review the report they submit to the court. If they believe it is necessary, they will obtain a second opinion with regard to medical and psychological assessments. Once a permanent guardian is appointed, the guardian ad litem’s involvement ends.
