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FAQs
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Frequenty Asked Questions
What is a Guardian ad Litem?
Guardian ad Litem means "guardian for the case or litigation". A Guardian ad Litem is a trained community volunteer appointed by a Juvenile 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 about services that focus on the needs of each child. The GAL is paired with an Attorney Advocate to ensure that the child's rights are protected and his or her best interests are presented to the court. The GAL Volunteer advocates for a permanent and safe home for every child within the shortest time possible. The GAL is relieved of his or her duties and responsibilities when the court is no longer involved.
What Does a Guardian ad Litem Do?
A Guardian ad Litem investigates the facts, carrying out a thorough study by interviewing many people and collecting records from a variety of sources. The GAL Volunteer talks with the child, parents, family members, social workers, school personnel, health providers, and others who are knowledgeable about the child's history. The GAL also reviews all records pertaining to the child such as school, medical, and caseworker reports.
A Guardian ad Litem works with human services agencies to ensure that the appropriate resources are made available to meet each child's needs. The GAL seeks cooperative solutions with other participants in the child's case.
A Guardian ad Litem objectively reports information and recommendations to the court to help the judge determine what is in the child's best interest. A GAL testifies if needed, to inform the court of changes in the child's situation.
A Guardian ad Litem serves as a spokesperson for the child along with the attorney advocate. The GAL attends and participates in court hearings and other related meetings.
A Guardian ad Litem monitors the child's progress to make sure the orders of the court are carried out and that children and families in need receive appropriate help. The GAL gives the child age appropriate information about the court proceedings.
Who Can Become a Guardian ad Litem?
Volunteers come from all walks of life. Any mature individual with a sincere concern for children may become a Guardian ad Litem. Volunteers must complete an application, have a personal interview, and receive 30 hours of training.
What About Training?
All Guardian ad Litem volunteers must complete 30 hours of training developed by the Guardian ad Litem Services Division. The curriculum is taught by local staff. Volunteers learn about roles and responsibilities, courtroom procedure, pertinent laws and legal issues, permanency planning, community resources, and effective advocacy for children. In-service training is also provided to those who complete initial training and are sworn in as Guardian ad Litem Volunteers by a district court judge.
Who Will Assist Me?
Volunteers are assisted and supervised by the staff of the Buncombe County Guardian ad Litem Program (28th Judicial District). The staff includes a District Administrator, two (2) Program Supervisors, a Program Assistant, and Two (2) Attorney Advocates.
Buncombe
County Guardians ad Litem
Buncombe County Courthouse
Asheville NC 28801
828-251-6130
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FAQs
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