When child custody, visitation, or support is contested in a divorce or other legal proceeding, courts may appoint a guardian ad litem (often an attorney with experience in family law matters) to investigate and make independent, objective recommendations to the court of what is in the best interest of the child. The guardian ad litem will typically interview the child, the parents, and other people who have contact with the child, and may subpoena witnesses to testify at court hearings, examine and cross-examine witnesses at hearings. The guardian ad litem may also testify regarding her investigation of the circumstances, conclusions, and recommendations to the court.

In Connecticut, when child custody, visitation, or support is contested in a divorce or other legal proceeding, the court has the authority to appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL). This individual is often an attorney with experience in family law matters. The role of the GAL is to investigate the situation and make independent, objective recommendations to the court regarding the best interests of the child. To fulfill their duties, the GAL will typically conduct interviews with the child, parents, and others in the child's life. They also have the power to subpoena witnesses for court hearings and to examine and cross-examine witnesses during these hearings. Furthermore, the GAL is permitted to testify in court about their investigation findings, conclusions, and recommendations. The court considers the GAL's input when making decisions about child custody, visitation, and support to ensure that the child's welfare is the primary concern.