An Illinois Order Appointing Guardian ad Item (GAL) is a court order issued by a judge to appoint an independent third party to serve as a representative of a minor or legally incapacitated party in a legal matter. The GAL is appointed to advocate for the best interests of the minor or legally incapacitated party. The GAL will investigate the facts of the case and make a recommendation to the court. Depending on the scope of the case, the GAL may represent the minor or legally incapacitated party in hearings, interviews, and other legal proceedings. Types of Illinois Order appointing Guardian ad Item include: • Temporary Order Appointing Guardian ad Item: issued in cases where a GAL is needed on a temporary basis • Permanent Order Appointing Guardian ad Item: issued in cases where a GAL is needed on a permanent basis • Order Appointing Guardiaattemptem for Court Proceedings: issued in cases where a GAL is needed to represent the minor or legally incapacitated party in court proceedings.