What is the primary role of a guardian ad litem?

The primary role of a guardian ad litem is to act as an attorney representing a minor or incapacitated person in legal proceedings. This legal representative is appointed by the court to ensure that the interests and rights of the individual needing protection—often a child or someone unable to advocate for themselves—are adequately represented during legal processes. The guardian ad litem conducts investigations, collects relevant information, and provides recommendations to the court based on what would be in the best interest of the individual they represent.

In contrast, other roles mentioned in the options do not encompass the full scope of the responsibilities of a guardian ad litem. A biological guardian pertains specifically to custody cases and does not necessarily involve the broader legal advocacy roles that a guardian ad litem performs. As for advising the court on emotional matters or mediating familial disputes, these functions may involve different professionals or roles that do not carry the same legal responsibilities and authority as a guardian ad litem. Therefore, the role of an attorney representing a minor or incapacitated person captures the essence of what a guardian ad litem is meant to do within the legal system.