Mississippi Criminal and Family Law BlogWhen family matters become contentious, particularly in cases involving child custody, visitation, or termination of parental rights, the courts often seek to ensure the best interests of the children involved. One important tool in the process is the Guardian ad Litem (GAL)—a person appointed by the court to represent and protect the child’s best interests during legal proceedings. In Mississippi, as in other states, a GAL plays a vital role in family law cases to help ensure that children’s needs and voices are heard, even when they cannot advocate for themselves.
What is a Guardian ad Litem?
The term Guardian ad Litem is Latin for “guardian for the lawsuit.” A GAL is typically an attorney, but may also be a social worker or other professional appointed by the court to represent the child’s best interests during a legal process. The GAL is often called “the investigative arm of the court,” meaning that the GAL serves as the Judge’s investigator to look into important issues and determine what will be in the child’s best interest. While the child’s wishes may be considered, the GAL’s primary responsibility is to advocate for what is deemed to be in the child’s best interests, even if that differs from what the child expresses.