Ad Litem

The term 'ad litem' refers to a person appointed by the court to represent another individual who is unable to represent themselves in a legal matter, particularly minors or individuals who are incapacitated. This representative acts on behalf of the individual solely for the purposes of the legal proceeding at hand.

The term 'ad litem' originates from Latin, meaning 'for the suit', and has been used in legal contexts since Roman law. It was historically applied in cases involving guardians and wards to ensure proper representation.

In modern legal practice, the concept of ad litem is commonly applied in family law and probate law, where guardians, or 'guardians ad litem', are appointed to advocate for the best interests of minors or incapacitated persons. This principle ensures that such individuals have access to legal representation that safeguards their rights during litigation.

• A court appoints a guardian ad litem for a child involved in a custody dispute to ensure the child's interests are represented.
• In a personal injury case, a guardian ad litem is appointed for an individual who is unable to make legal decisions due to a mental incapacity.

• In re Marriage of D.L. and S.L.
• In re A.C.