In recent years, the use and appointment of a guardian ad litem ("GAL") in contested custody matters has become increasingly common. Guardians ad litem can be very helpful when their role conforms to the specific parameters set forth by the court rule. Unfortunately, a GAL may be less helpful, or perhaps overreaching, when used outside the scope of the rule. For example, a GAL may take on the role of a mediator, a parent coordinator, custody evaluator, or another form of problem solver, in an effort to help bring a case to conclusion when, in fact, their intended role is actually confined to an investigative arm of the court.