Guardian ad Litem Program - Palm Beach County

Facilitation

• ​Identify resources and services for the child.
• Facilitate a collaborative relationship between all parties, and help to create a situation in which the child’s needs are met.

​Advocacy

• ​​Attend and participate in court hearings and related meetings to advocate for a permanent plan that will serve the child’s best interest and that will be in accordance with federal and state laws.  
  
• Determine whether appropriate services are being provided to the child and family.
  

Reporting

• ​​Submit monthly child visitation and activity reports.​ 
  
• Submit a signed report every six months with recommendations to the court. ​​
  
• Maintain communication with your Child Advocacy Coordinator and provide updates for the case file records.​
  

Investigation 

• Conduct an objective and systematic examination of the situation, including relevant history, environment, relationships, and needs of the child. 
• Interview family, friends, school staff, medical doctors, therapists, and anyone involved in the child's life. ​
  
• Visit the child at least once every 30 days.
  

Duties of the GAL Volunteer