FTE Juvenile Guardian ad Litem - 3rd District

Position Overview

Juvenile Court Guardians ad Litem – 3rd Judicial District, Houston, Fillmore, Winona, and Olmstead Counties – committed to giving children a strong voice.

The Minnesota Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program is a state agency that appoints independent guardians to represent abused and neglected children in court. We are seeking a full‑time (1.0 FTE), represented, non‑exempt Guardian ad Litem to advocate for children in juvenile court proceedings. The role reports to a Program Coordinator and is administered under the direction of the 3rd District GAL Program Manager.

• Observe child(ren) in home and other settings monthly to document interactions with caretakers, peers, and others.
• Compile accurate and factual findings, conclusions, and recommendations regarding the child’s best interests, preparing written and/or oral reports for the court in accordance with court rules, state statutes, and Program policies.
• Attend court hearings and other proceedings to present oral and written recommendations or testify as required.
• Examine files and discovery for relevant documents and data pertaining to the child, including basic facts and extenuating circumstances.
• Prepare interview questions and interview child and others using recommended techniques; obtain releases of information; call and question witnesses when appropriate.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to the child’s cultural background and identify culturally appropriate resources for placement, treatment, and services.
• Organize and catalogue case notes and records in the case management system, ensuring accuracy and adherence to confidentiality rules.
• Maintain an accurate, up‑to‑date calendar of hearings; prepare and file written reports and documentation in a timely manner; close files according to district/county policies.
• Determine when legal representation is needed for self or child and work with attorneys in case preparation.
• Attend individual supervision meetings, administrative reviews, case plan meetings, and program staff meetings; participate in local, district, and state task forces and committees.
• Serve as mentor or be accompanied by new Guardian ad Litem candidates.
• Prepare for extensive secondary trauma and ongoing conflict stemming from domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and neglect.

• Judicial process, rules, and law, including Minnesota Statutes.
• Objectives, philosophy, policies, and procedures of the GAL program.
• Child development and issues surrounding juvenile cases such as abuse, domestic abuse, chemical dependency, and developmental disabilities.
• Community resources for placement, treatment, and other services, with the ability to identify culturally appropriate options.
• Culture and demographics of the served community and proficiency in working with diverse cultures.

• Interact professionally with judges, court administrators, staff, agency representatives, attorneys, children, and the public while representing the GAL Program.
• Work independently, think critically, analyze complex family situations, and make objective recommendations in the child’s best interest.
• Develop and maintain respectful and cooperative relationships with co‑workers.
• Remain professional and composed in crisis situations and defuse high‑conflict, complex scenarios.
• Receive feedback, embrace continuous improvement, and stay receptive to learning.
• Find and work with an interpreter when necessary.

• Appropriate listening, oral, and written communication; critical observation; effective interviewing, oral presentation, and formal court reporting.
• Time and resource management; maintain accurate, complete, and up‑to‑date files.
• Novice proficiency with technology and relevant software programs and databases.
• Novice typing and basic office equipment skills.

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, education, nursing, criminal justice, law, or a child‑related discipline plus relevant experience, OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Current driver’s license, vehicle registration, and valid automobile insurance in compliance with Minnesota statute.
• Residence near the…