Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Advocate

Overview

Children in Placement is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that has helped the children of Connecticut since 1979. We strive to be Connecticut’s recognized leader and, in this role, bring awareness, partnerships, resources and systemic policy changes supporting children and youth in accessing the supports they need to develop and eventually become successful adults.

Thousands of abused, neglected, and abandoned children become the subject of judicial proceedings each year in Connecticut. Their voices are often unheard, and their best interests overlooked in the court process.

• Serve as a friend of the court, acting on behalf of children in protective state custody, with the goal of reducing the time these children await permanent placement.
• When assigned a case, conduct a thorough investigation by interviewing the child, parents and other family members, social workers, therapists, doctors, and educators.
• Understand the situation fully to make appropriate recommendations to the court that reflect the child’s best interests.
• Provide advocacy and support to ensure the child’s well-being throughout the judicial process.

All GAL advocates are extensively trained, supervised and supported by the Children in Placement team. They are required to complete 40 hours of intensive training, with a 12-hour follow-up annually.

• Volunteers are assigned one case and remain with the case until it is closed and final placement is found for the child(ren).
• GAL volunteers help ensure that a child’s best interests are heard by the court and provide a trusted, supportive adult figure for children who may not have had ongoing advocacy.

Time commitment depends on case complexity. On average, volunteers spend approximately 2–5 hours per month on a case, with most cases lasting between 3–6 months.