Guardian ad Litem

Minnesota Guardianship Law

If you are a guardian ad litem seeking representation, please don't hesitate to call me, Minnesota guardianship attorney.

A guardian ad litem is a person who stands in the shoes of another, much like a guardian or conservator, but who protects the interests of the ward during legal or administrative proceedings.

There are several types of proceeding where a guardian ad litem is necessary. A GAL, as they are often referred to in the legal arena, are appointed when a person is not likely going to be able to represent his or her own best interests, even if represented by an attorney.

The guardian ad litem acts as the client in the place of the client. If the client is represented, the client's attorney will be directed by the GAL.

An example where appointment of a guardian ad litem is appropriate is in a probate case where the parents have died and the children are minors. Minor children generally cannot represent their own interests in legal proceedings. They simply are not expected to be able to understand the situation and cannot be expected to make decisions that could have significant impact on the rest of their lives.

Even if the court appoints these orphan children an attonrey, the court will still also likely appoint a guardian ad litem to them. The guardian ad litem will ensure that their interests are being protected. It's not that an attorney couldn't or wouldn't protect the children's interests. Rather, it's more likely that their lawyer may not fully understand what the orphan children's interests are.

Guardians ad litem are usually professionally trained and licensed. There are state and national organizations dedicated to setting and maintaining standards to ensure that GALs are excellent advocates for and protectors of their wards.