Gaurdian Ad
Litem
A Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) is a volunteer appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a child in dependency cases involving suspected neglect or abuse. Unlike other court participants with multiple responsibilities, GAL volunteers are there to think of the child first.
The GAL volunteer visits the child, provides information on court proceedings, ensures the child’s needs are being met throughout the case, tracks the progress of court- and department-ordered activities, and advocates for the child’s best interests to relevant agencies. The GAL volunteer is also sometimes the trusted ear of a child going through the most uncertain time in their life.
A GAL does not have to be a lawyer, counselor, therapist or parent, since they do not perform these roles for the child. A GAL is a person who cares and has time to devote to children. Each volunteer must attend over 30 hours of training and successfully pass a thorough background screening.
If you’re interested in more information about becoming a GAL, please contact us.
