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 Rhode Island, 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. This individual is often an attorney with experience in family law matters. The role of the guardian ad litem is to conduct an independent investigation and make objective recommendations to the court regarding the best interests of the child. To fulfill their duties, the guardian ad litem will interview the child, parents, and others in the child's life, and has the power to subpoena witnesses for court hearings. They are also authorized to examine and cross-examine witnesses during these hearings. After completing their investigation, the guardian ad litem may testify in court about their findings and provide recommendations to the judge to assist in making informed decisions about the child's welfare.