Rule 8.715 Guardian Ad Litem

A guardian ad litem is a person the judge can appoint to speak up for a child in a court case. This person's job is to look out for what is best for the child, not for the parents or anyone else involved.

The judge decides whether to appoint one. It is not automatic, but if the judge thinks the child needs someone in their corner, they can make that appointment at any time during the case.