A Guardian ad Litem in North Carolina is a trained community volunteer who is appointed by a district court judge to investigate and determine the needs of abused and neglected children petitioned into the court system by the Department of Social Services. The Guardian ad Litem Volunteer makes independent recommendations to the court about services which focus on the needs of each child. The Guardian ad Litem Volunteer advocates for a permanent and safe home for every child within the shortest time possible.

Activities Visits the child. Ensures that the child’s wishes are known to the court. Interviews the parents, guardians, or caretakers. Interviews the social workers and other service providers and reviews records related to the family. Gathers and assesses independent information about the child sufficient to recommend a resolution that’s in the child’s best interests. Seeks cooperative solutions with other participants in the child’s case. Prepares written reports for court hearings. Attends and participates in court hearings and other related meetings. Testifies, if needed, to inform the court of changes in the child’s situation. Keeps all records and information confidential. Monitors provisions of service plans and court orders. Explains the role of the Guardian ad Litem to every child who is old enough to understand. Keeps the child informed of all aspects of the court proceedings. Consults with local program staff for support and guidance.

Qualifications The main qualification is a sincere concern for the well-being of children. The volunteer must be a mature adult of sound character with good verbal and written communication skills. The Guardian ad Litem Volunteer must be able to interact and talk with people of various educational and ethnic backgrounds. An essential characteristic is the ability to be objective and nonjudgmental. Requirements The process of becoming a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer requires a written application, three personal/professional references and a criminal record check. A personal interview will be conducted by a staff member. The Volunteer must complete about 30 hours of required training, which will include court observation. The fully trained and screened Volunteer will be sworn in by a district court judge before assignment of his or her first case. A Guardian ad Litem is appointed for the life of a case, with most cases reaching their conclusion in less than two years. Training & Supervision The training curriculum developed by the Guardian ad Litem Services Division is taught by the local district staff. Volunteers also receive ongoing training. Guardian ad Litem Volunteers are supervised by the program staff.