What is the difference between an Attorney for the Respondent and a Guardian Ad Litem?
A respondent is the alleged incapacitated person for whom a petition has been filed and their attorney represents the wishes of the respondent as opposed to the best interest of the respondent. The guardian ad litem (or GAL) is a person appointed by the court to represent the best interests and rights of the ward or respondent in the proceedings. A GAL, generally an attorney, is appointed if the court decides that the respondent cannot determine his own interests because of impaired ability. A GAL’s duties end when guardianship proceedings are concluded.
