An Illinois Order appointing Guardian ad Item is a court order issued by a judge in the state of Illinois to appoint a Guardian ad Item (GAL) in a case. A GAL is an attorney appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a minor or an incapacitated person in a legal proceeding. The Order appointing a Guardian ad Item will specify the name of the GAL, the GAL's duties, and the conditions for the GAL’s appointment. The Order will also specify the GAL’s compensation. There are two types of Illinois Order appointing Guardian ad Item: 1. Order Appointing Guardian ad Item in Family Law Matters: This Order is issued when a GAL is appointed to represent the best interests of a minor in a family law proceeding such as a divorce or custody dispute. 2. Order Appointing Guardian ad Item in Guardianship/Conservatorship Matters: This Order is issued when a GAL is appointed to represent the best interests of an incapacitated person in a proceeding to appoint a guardian or conservator for that person.