North Dakota Guardian ad Litem Project
"One Child at a Time"
To ensure that every child in North Dakota lives in a safe, healthy, and nurturing family
environment.
What is a Guardian ad Litem?
The GAL is recognized as an independent advocate and representative of the child.
The key elements of the role a lay guardian ad litem plays are:
- Investigation - conducting an objective examination of the child's situation
- Facilitation - to identify available resources and making sure services are in place
- Advocacy - actively stating the best interests of the child
- Monitoring - keeping track of the treatment plan
What Impact Does a Guardian ad Litem Have?
- Advocates for the child's needs to be met
- Assists the court & child welfare system to better understand the needs of the child
- Helps the child understand how the legal system works
- Assists in resolving the case in a more timely fashion
What Does a Guardian ad Litem do?
- Advocates for the best interest of the child
- Attends all court hearings and child welfare proceedings
- Meets with all interested parties (child, parent(s), school personnel, foster family . . . etc.)
- Reviews all records
- Prepares a detailed report for the court with formal recommendations
- (Acts) professionally, with skills in interviewing, listening and problem-solving
What Type of Case is a Guardian ad Litem Involved In?
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Verbal abuse
- Physical neglect
- Medical neglect
- Psychological maltreatment
- Educational neglect
Contact us for more information, or with your questions & concerns:
ND Guardian ad Litem Project UND
P.O. Box 7090
Gillette Hall - Room 2
Grand Forks ND 58202-7090
Phone: (701) 777-4913
Toll-Free: 1-866-225-7004
Fax: (701) 777-4459