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01
CASE INFORMATION
02
PETITIONER INFORMATION
03
PURPOSE OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM APPOINTMENT
04
PROPOSED GUARDIAN AD LITEM
FILING COUNTY
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OPEN CLAWDE VERSION →STATUTORY REFERENCE
G.S. 35A-1107GAL in incompetency
G.S. 35A-1101(7)Guardian ad litem defined
Rule 17(b)GAL for minor/incompetent
G.S. 1A-1, R.17Rules of Civil Procedure
G.S. 7B-601GAL in juvenile cases
PURPOSE OF A GUARDIAN AD LITEM
- A GAL represents the interests of a ward or minor in court proceedings
- In incompetency cases, the court appoints a GAL to ensure the respondent's interests are protected before adjudication
- A GAL is different from a general guardian — the appointment is limited to the specific proceeding
- The GAL investigates, consults with the ward, and reports to the court
- GAL appointment is mandatory in incompetency petitions under G.S. 35A-1107
COURT APPOINTMENT PROCESS
- File this petition with the Clerk of Superior Court
- The Clerk or Court reviews the petition and proposed GAL
- If no proposed GAL is approved, the Court may appoint a GAL from its list
- The GAL must accept the appointment in writing
- GAL compensation may be ordered by the court
NEED AN ATTORNEY?
- Guardianship proceedings are complex — an attorney is strongly recommended for the petitioner
- Barker Richardson, PLLC →
- Official NC AOC Forms →