A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is a person that is legally appointed by the judicial system to be an advocate for a person that is currently under the care of the judicial system. A person currently under the care of the judicial system is known as a ward. Examples of a ward can be, but are not limited to, a minor child, or an adult with a disability. A GAL can be appointed by a judge in cases of divorce, child protection cases, and adult guardianship.
A GAL is appointed to a ward to protect the ward’s best interests. For example, in the case of divorce, a GAL may be appointed to the children to investigate the situation further and make recommendations to the judge as far as parental and visitation rights. However, a GAL is not a guardian of the ward, therefore they have no legal authority or rights over a ward.
If you are currently involved in a court case that has been appointed a GAL, it is important to remember that a GAL is not your attorney nor are they an advocate for you (unless, of course, you are the ward in this case). Although, a GAL is an attorney. In fact, in Illinois, it is required that a GAL be an attorney, and that they receive extra training prior to taking on a role as a GAL. It is helpful to think of the GAL as a second judge, and to treat them as such. It is recommended to be respectful towards and work in congruence with the GAL. For further instructions as to how to interact with a GAL, contact your attorney directly.
If you would like to speak to a professional counselor or psychologist about court-ordered counseling classes, divorce, or high-conflict parenting and reside in Illinois, please contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. at 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819 West 167th Street in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477.
Hillary R.,
Masters Level Intern, 2024
Sources –
Guardian ad litem (gal) basics. Illinois Legal Aid Online. (2023, July 6). https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/guardian-ad-litem-gal-basics
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