VOLUNTEER    Job Descripition

A Guardian ad Litem is a trained community volunteer who is appointed by a district court judge to investigate and determine the needs of abused and neglected children petitioned into the court system by the Department of Social Services. The Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Volunteer makes independent recommendations to the court for services, which focus on the needs of each child. The Guardian ad Litem advocates for a permanent and safe home for every child within the shortest time possible.

Activities

• Visits the child and keeps the child informed about the court proceedings.
• Communicates with the Attorney Advocate to develop legal strategies to further the best interests of the child client.
• Gathers and assesses independent information on a consistent basis about the child to recommend a resolution that is in the child's best interest.
• Interviews the parents, guardians, caretakers, social workers and other service providers and reads records related to the family.
• Seeks cooperative solutions with other participants in the child's case.
• Writes fact-based, child-focused reports for court hearings.
• Attends and participates in court hearings and other related meetings to advocate for a permanent plan, which serves the child's best interest.
• Testifies, if needed, to inform the court of changes in the child's situation.
• Ensures that the court knows the child's wishes.
• Keeps all records and information confidential.
• Monitors court ordered services and keeps the court informed about needs of the child.
• Consults with local program staff for support and guidance.