S.L. 12.35 Art. 15Guardian ad litem.

Without prejudice to the functions of the Children’s

Advocate under any other law, the principal function of the Children’s Advocate shall be to act as guardian ad litem for minor children for the purposes of these regulations, and this role shall include:

(a) providing legal assistance, representations and advice to minors;

(b) acting in the best interests of the minor;

(c) presenting the views of the minor before the Court, including through the filing of judicial acts;

(d) providing explanations to the minor on the potential consequences should the Court comply with the minor’s wishes;

(e) providing the child with any relevant information;

(f) assisting the minor during mediation proceedings and in sittings before the Family Court;

*Not yet in force. †Not yet in force.

(g) making submissions to the Family Court regarding measures which, in his opinion, are in the best interests of the minor:

Provided that the Children’s Advocate shall provide the minor with all relevant explanations and information only if the minor is considered by the Family Court to possess sufficient understanding and maturity.