Courts in Iowa sometimes appoint a Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) in cases involving custody, juvenile law, and some cases involving persons under certain legal disabilities. The GAL’s role is to represent the interests of the minor or person with a legal disability. This representation takes various forms depending on the type of case. Generally it is to participate in the case on behalf of the child’s best interests. In this article, we will discuss: What does a GAL do in a Child Custody Case?, When will a GAL be appointed in a child custody case?, and Who pays for the GAL?
