A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is a court-appointed officer who will conduct a child custody investigation and make recommendations to the court with the children's best interest at the forefront. The GAL's purpose is to advocate for the children's best interests using factors that are outlined in the Holley v. Adams (1976) ruling. In order to make well-informed recommendations, the GAL will interview parents, family members, children, siblings, teachers, therapists, and medical professionals. The GAL will also conduct visits at the children's homes and school and supervise a visit between parent and child. The GAL will likely need several months to complete their investigation and may make multiple recommendations during their appointment prior to their final child custody report and court testimony.