The Guardian Ad Litem Program comes under the jurisdiction of the Administrative Office Of The County (AOC). The purpose of the program is to give representation to each child who enters the court system through Social Services recommendation.

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 who have been petitioned into the court system by the Department Of Social Services.

The Guardian Ad Litem (the child's advocate) makes independent recommendations to the court for services that focus on the needs of the child. The Guardian Ad Litem advocates for a permanent and safe home for the child, within the shortest time possible.

The activities of the Guardian Ad Litem include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Visit the child.
• Ensure that the child's wishes are known to the court.
• Gather independent information about the child sufficient to make recommendations to the court in the child's best interest.
• Interview the parents, guardians, or caretakers.
• Interview the social worker and other service providers, and review records related to the family.
• Seek cooperative solutions with other participants (professionals and family members) in the child's case.
• Prepare written reports for court hearings.
• Attend and participate in court hearings and other related meetings about the child's welfare.
• If needed, testify to inform the court of changes in the child's situation.
• Keep all records and information confidential.
• Monitor provisions of service plans and court orders.
• Explain the role of the Guardian Ad Litem to the child in language sufficient for them to understand. Keep the child informed of all aspects of the court proceedings.
• Consult with local program staff for support and guidance.
• Advocate for the child in the community.