Helping Children in Court: The GAL & Child Representative Program

A Guardian Ad Litem is a neutral third party who acts like the judges "eyes" and "ears." They can be a lawyer or a volunteer appointed to the court.

• They talk to the child, parents, teachers and others to learn about the child's life.

• They review important records like school and medical reports.

• They may visit the child's home to see how things are going.

• Then, they share their recommendations with the judge about what they believe is best for the child.

• Confidentiality: A GAL may be required to share their findings and opinions with the court

**Important** 

The GAL does not "take sides" for one parent or the other.  They focus only on what's best for the child.

A child representative is also an attorney, but their job is to speak up for the child's best interest in court - more like a lawyer would.

• They meet with the child and the family.

• They investigate by talking to people and reviewing documents.  

• They go to court, ask questions, and present information to help the judge make decisions.

• They cannot be called as a witness. Instead, they use legal arguments to explain what's best for the child.

• Confidentiality: A Child Representative does not have to reveal private things the child says, unless ordered by the judge

**Important** 

A Child Representative may listen to the child's wishes, but they recommend what they believe is best for the child, even if it's different from what the child says they want.