Both an attorney ad litem and an amicus attorney are court appointed attorneys who represent children during a custody dispute.

Why does the Court appoint a representative for a child in a custody dispute?

The Court has the power to appoint an attorney ad litem or an amicus attorney in a case where both parents ask for custody.

Then we all ask – what is the difference?

Legal answer: The attorney ad litem represents the child, and the child’s expressed objectives. In contrast, the amicus attorney represents the best interest of the child.

Simple answer: The attorney ad litem informs the court that the child wants chocolate for breakfast. However, the amicus attorney, knowing the child wants chocolate for breakfast, advocates all the reasons for or against that want.

Next discussion to address the changes to the role as an Amicus Attorney, effective September 1, 2025.