Key components of a Guardians Role

The Guardian ad Litem must be recognized as an independent advocate and representative of the child. The lay GAL advocates for the best interests of the child. To consider what is in the best interests of the child the GAL determines:

• is the child safe?
• is the child’s culture being respected?
• is the child’s sense of time being honored?
• should the child be present in court?
• can the child speak for him/herself?

There are four key components to the role of a GAL:
investigation, facilitation, advocacy and monitoring.

INVESTIGATION

• conduct an objective, systematic examination of the child’s situation
• reviewing relevant history
• assessing the child’s environment
• relationships
• exploring the needs of the child

FACILITATION

• identifying necessary resources
• making sure services are in place
• serve to build collaborative relationships with all service providers
• help to create a situation in which the child’s needs can be met

ADVOCACY

• speak for the child at various meetings (court, permanency meetings, school conferences, etc)
• state the best interests of the child’s case
• be confident in your recommendations
• be an active participant in court

MONITORING

• keep track of hearings
• keep track of what the plan calls for
• make certain plans are being followed by social services, treatment providers

Once assigned a case the responsibilities are numerous:

• reviewing records
• interviewing appropriate parties
• determine if a permanent plan has been created and whether required services are being provided
• submitting one written, signed report to the court with recommendations, unless you are ordered by the court to submit a follow-up report
• attend and participate in all court hearings
• maintaining complete records: appointments, interviews, collateral information gathered and that the records are kept confidential