The term "ad litem" refers to which of the following?

The term "ad litem" translates to "for the purposes of the suit" in Latin. It is typically used in legal contexts to designate a representative appointed to act on behalf of another party in a legal proceeding, often when that party is unable to represent themselves. For example, a guardian ad litem may be appointed to represent the interests of a minor or incapacitated person during legal proceedings. This specificity underscores that the actions taken are solely for the purposes of the ongoing legal matter, not extending beyond that context.

Other options refer to various phases of the legal process, such as the duration of a trial or jury deliberation, but they do not capture the precise meaning of "ad litem," which fundamentally revolves around its application within the context of the legal proceedings rather than the timing or scope of those actions.