Guardians ad Litem

The role of a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is to protect or promote the interests of the person for whom they have been appointed. In many cases a GAL is appointed by the Court or Tribunal in which proceedings are being conducted.

A GAL may also be referred to as a tutor or special representative.

The Office of the General Counsel of the Department of Justice administers the Guardian ad Litem appointments across participating Courts and Tribunals in New South Wales.

News and Announcements

• Dispute Resolution Conferences in Children's Court proceedings

  The Children's Court is now placing greater emphasis on Dispute Resolution Conferences .... more information

• Statutory Protection for Guardian ad Litem Panel Members

  On 7 December 2010, the Gover​nor assented to the Courts and Crimes Legislation Further Amendment Act 2010. The amendments in the Act provide a statutory defence to GAL Panel Members who act in good faith in a range of jurisdictions .... more information

• Launch of the Guardian ad Litem Panel

  On Monday, 30 August 2010 the Guardian ad Litem Panel Code of Conduct was launched at Parliament House .... more information

• Download the Guardian ad Litem Code of Conduct and Handbook for free

  The Code of Conduct and Handbook contain detailed instructions for GALs .... more information