Pennsylvania law outlines the circumstances under which a guardian ad litem and counsel can be appointed for a child in custody or abuse cases. The law specifies when these appointments are required, their roles, and how costs are allocated. It also details protections for the appointed counsel and guardian ad litem during proceedings.
A guardian ad litem is appointed if there are substantial allegations of abuse or if the court finds that relevant information can only be presented with such an appointment.
No, a guardian ad litem generally cannot testify unless authorized by specific rules, but they can make legal arguments based on relevant evidence.
The court may order a party to pay all or part of the costs associated with appointing either a guardian ad litem or counsel for the child.
The guardian ad litem represents the child's best interests, while the counsel advocates for the child's legal interests during proceedings.