Civil Law
Guardian ad Litem
A person appointed by a court to represent the interests of a minor or a person of unsound mind in a specific legal proceeding.
Since minors and persons found to be of unsound mind cannot sue or be sued directly in their own right, a guardian ad litem is appointed specifically for that case, to protect and represent their interests throughout the proceedings.
This is distinct from a general guardian, whose role covers the minor's overall welfare, not just a single lawsuit.
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