|
Program Description
Guardian ad Litem (GAL) program supports and advocates for the best interest of abused, neglected and abandoned children who are involved in dependency court proceedings. The 19th Judicial Circuit GAL Program (our district) is responsible for the recruitment, training, support and supervision of court-appointed individuals who represent and advocate for the interest of these chldren.
A "guardian" is appointed by the court to advocate for a child. The majority of these children have been removed from their homes because of alleged abuse, abandonment or neglect. The Guardian visits the child at least once a month, gathers information about the case, interviews those involved in the child's life and case, works with community partners to ensure the child is receiving the assistance and support they need, makes recommendations to the court based on the information gathered, provides the child a voice in the court and most importantly - represents what is in the child's best interest.
Services Available Through This Program
Abuse Prevention- Child
,
Community Activities- Volunteering
,
Legal Assistance / Attorneys
|
Hours of Operation
|
Eligibility Requirements and Important Information
You must be 19 years of age and have a clear criminal background. Other than those basic requirements, no special education or experience is required. 30 hours of training is provided to receive Guardian ad Litem certification. Training is provided free.
|
Availability and Fees
|
|
Current Wait List: |
NO |
Handicapped Access: |
NO |
Accepts Medicaid: |
NO |
Accepts Medicare: |
NO |
Accepts Private Insurance: |
NO |
Financial Assistance Available?: |
NO |
Sliding Scale: |
NO |
Other Fee Information
|
Other Useful Information
Volunteer to become a Guardian ad Litem or an Associate Guardian ad Litem.
|