Guardian ad Litem

A guardian ad litem is a person appointed by a court to look after the interests of a child or incompetent person during a proceeding. A guardian ad litem’s appointment is limited to a single case and the person may have nothing do with the ward before or after the proceeding. The guardian ad litem typically has no say in the ward’s care or well-being apart from the case.

For example, where a minor is a beneficiary of a will or estate, the probate court will often appoint a guardian ad litem to participate in the case to ensure that the minor’s interests are looked after. Though appointed by the court, the guardian ad litem’s fee is paid by the estate. The guardian ad litem will often be asked to prepare a report on whether the ward’s interests are properly considered and to recommend any steps that would protect the interests of the ward.