What does a Guardian ad Litem do?

A Guardian ad Litem plays a crucial role in legal proceedings involving minors, particularly in custody or abuse cases. Their primary responsibility is to represent the best interests of the child in court. This includes investigating the circumstances that led to the case, meeting with the child, and gathering information from various sources, such as family members, teachers, and social workers. The Guardian ad Litem then presents their findings and recommendations to the court, ensuring that the child's voice is heard and considered in legal decisions that affect their welfare.

In contrast, mediating disputes between parents, financially supporting dependent children, and facilitating adoptions involve different functions that are not covered by the role of a Guardian ad Litem. Mediation typically involves negotiation strategies aimed at helping parents reach an agreement, while financial support for dependent children is usually handled through child support arrangements or state welfare programs. Adoption facilitation involves legal procedures for placing a child in a new family, distinct from the responsibilities of advocating for a child’s interests in court.