Commonly abbreviated as a GAL, this refers to a court appointed person that is the representative for a child or incapacitated adult who protects their interests and may represent them in court proceedings. The GAL may protect the interests of a child in a custody battle, when there are allegations of abuse and other situations where a child may need legal representation for such a court proceeding. The GAL may investigate conditions, interview parties, report to the court, participate in hearings or mediation between the parties and is also known as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA). A temporary guardian for a person who is a minor, child or incapacitated for the purpose of representing them in a lawsuit or court proceeding.