Who is appointed by the court to advocate for the best interest of the Ward?

The Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) serves a specific role in legal proceedings, particularly in cases involving minors or individuals deemed incapable of making informed decisions. The primary responsibility of the GAL is to independently represent and advocate for the best interests of the Ward, ensuring that their rights and needs are prioritized in court decisions. This often involves gathering information, interviewing individuals involved in the Ward's life, and making recommendations to the court.

The involvement of a GAL is crucial because they provide an objective viewpoint that may not always be present from other parties, such as the guardian or family members, who might have their own interests at heart. This reinforces the principle that the Ward's welfare is paramount in guardianship cases.

The other roles listed, while important, serve different functions. The Guardian of Person is responsible for making personal decisions on behalf of the Ward, such as health care and living arrangements. The Attorney Ad Litem (AAL) represents the legal interests of the Ward but is not primarily focused on their best interests in the same way a GAL is. A Conservator generally deals with the financial affairs of the Ward rather than personal or emotional well-being.