How can you help a child in need? A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is appointed to represent the best interests of a juvenile when a petition alleging abuse or neglect is filed in District Court by the Department of Social Services. The judge appoints a trained volunteer GAL Advocate to work alongside the Attorney Advocate to provide team representation to the child.
The role of Guardian ad Litem is to protect and promote the best interests of the juvenile, conduct independent investigations to determine the facts, needs of the child, report the wishes of the child, and make recommendations to the court to promote permanency.
Application, background screenings, and interview required before acceptance into training cohort. Training consists of ~32 hours of pre-service work; on-line, in-person, and court observation. Apply at www.volunteerforgal.org
