Legal guardian

Guardian ad litem

A guardian ad litem (GAL) is a person the court appoints to investigate what solutions would be in the best interests of a child. The term is used in the United States and some other jurisdictions. The guardian ad litem is often an attorney but does not have to be. The role of a GAL is to represent the best interests of the child in legal proceedings, which can include cases of child custody, child abuse, neglect, and adoption.

Role and Responsibilities

The primary responsibility of a guardian ad litem is to act as an advocate for the child's best interests. This includes:

• Conducting an independent investigation to gather information about the child's situation.
• Interviewing the child, parents, family members, and other relevant parties.
• Reviewing documents and records related to the child's welfare.
• Making recommendations to the court about what arrangements would best serve the child's needs.
• Representing the child's best interests in court hearings and other legal proceedings.

Appointment

A guardian ad litem is typically appointed by a judge in cases where the child's welfare is a significant concern. The appointment can be requested by any party involved in the case, including the child's parents, the state, or the court itself.

Training and Qualifications

The qualifications and training required for a guardian ad litem vary by jurisdiction. In many places, GALs are required to complete specific training programs that cover topics such as child development, family dynamics, and the legal aspects of child welfare cases. Some jurisdictions also require GALs to have a background in social work, psychology, or law.

Differences from Other Guardians

A guardian ad litem differs from other types of guardians in that their role is temporary and specific to a particular legal proceeding. Unlike a legal guardian, who has ongoing responsibility for a child's care and decision-making, a GAL's involvement ends when the court case is resolved.

Related Concepts

• Legal guardian
• Child custody
• Child abuse
• Neglect
• Adoption
• Family law

See Also

• Legal guardian
• Child custody
• Child abuse
• Neglect
• Adoption
• Family law