What is a guardian ad litem?

A guardian ad litem (GAL) is a person appointed by the court in Georgia to protect the interests of a minor child. The GAL is typically a lawyer or social worker with experience handling child-related matters. The GAL’s primary duty is to act as an advocate for the child in legal matters, such as divorce, child abuse or neglect, or when the parents are unable to make decisions about the child’s welfare. The GAL is responsible for investigating the child’s situation and making recommendations about the child’s best interests. This may include making recommendations about guardianship or custody, providing for the child’s physical or medical needs, or recommending psychological or social services. The GAL may also act as a fact-finder, interviewing people involved in the case, reviewing documents, or engaging in other activities to inform the court’s decision. The GAL is independent of the parties involved and is not bound by the wishes of either parent. He or she is required to act in the best interests of the child, which may conflict with the wishes of either or both parents. The GAL’s report is presented to the court in a hearing or trial, and the judge will make a decision based on the GAL’s recommendations.

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What is a guardian ad litem?

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