Who appoints a GAL?
Usually the judge or magistrate will appoint a GAL to serve on a case. In domestic relations cases, where custody of a minor child or children is an issue, the attorneys often will agree that a GAL should be appointed, and will ask the court to appoint one. Similarly, probate and civil division courts will appoint a GAL where the childs interests in the litigation are potentially contrary to his or her parents interests in the matter. When there are several children whose interests need to be protected in a particular case, usually only one GAL is appointed to represent all of the childrens interests. If a conflict arises, then additional GALs may be appointed.
