Who may a guardian ad litem represent?

• A. The judge only.
• B. The estate itself.
• C. The attorney general.
• D. The interests of a party who cannot represent themselves, often a beneficiary or minor.

Answer: (D)

Guardians ad litem are appointed to advocate for someone who cannot represent themselves in court—most often a minor or an incapacitated beneficiary in probate matters. Their role is to look after that person’s best interests and present the court with what would best protect and advance those interests, independent of other parties. They’re not representing the judge, the estate itself, or the attorney general; they’re acting as an independent advocate for a vulnerable person whose own voice might be absent in the proceeding. In practice, you see this in guardianship or probate matters where a child or other beneficiary needs protection to ensure fair treatment and proper consideration of their welfare and rights.