Is a guardian the same thing as a guardian ad litem?

No. Although the terms are similar, a guardian and a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) perform very different roles.

A guardian is appointed to care for a child and make important decisions on the child’s behalf.

A Guardian ad Litem is a neutral appointed by the court to investigate specific issues and provide information or recommendations that assist the court in making decisions.

Because I both represent clients in guardianship proceedings and serve as a court-appointed Guardian ad Litem, I understand these matters from multiple perspectives and bring that experience to every case.