Guardian ad Litem FAQ: Common Questions About Being a GAL

What does a Guardian ad Litem actually do?

A guardian ad litem is appointed by a court to represent a child's best interests in a legal proceeding, most often a child-welfare or custody case. The role typically involves independently investigating the child's circumstances, meeting with the child and the key people in their life, and reporting findings and recommendations to the court. The GAL is the one participant whose sole loyalty is to the child rather than to any party.

What is the difference between a GAL and a CASA?

The terms overlap and vary by state. CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate, and CASA volunteers serve in the guardian ad litem role in many jurisdictions. In some states a GAL must be an attorney; in others a trained volunteer serves as GAL with support from a program attorney. The labels matter less than understanding the specific model your own state and court use, which our state pages describe in detail.

Do I need to be a lawyer to be a GAL volunteer?

In many states, no. A large share of GAL and CASA work is done by trained community volunteers who are not attorneys, working under the supervision of a program and its legal staff. Some jurisdictions do require the appointed guardian ad litem to be a licensed attorney. Check your own state's model to see which applies where you live.

How much time does it take?

The commitment varies by case and by program, but volunteers should expect to invest meaningful, regular time — visiting the child, gathering information, attending hearings, and writing reports. Cases can last many months or longer, and consistency over that span is exactly what makes the role valuable. Most programs ask volunteers to stay with a case until it closes.

What training will I receive?

Reputable programs provide structured pre-service training covering the court process, child development and trauma, interviewing, report writing, and relevant law, followed by ongoing education and the support of a supervisor. You are never expected to walk into a courtroom unprepared; training and supervision are built into the role.

Will I have to testify in court?

You will participate in hearings, and the court will rely heavily on your written reports and recommendations. Depending on the jurisdiction and the case, you may answer questions from the judge or attorneys. Your program prepares you for this and supports you through it; the key is to report honestly what you observed and what you recommend for the child.

What if I disagree with the caseworker or the parents?

Disagreement is normal and sometimes necessary. Your job is to advocate independently for the child's best interests, even when that puts you at odds with the agency or the parents. You can do so respectfully and still maintain working relationships. What matters is that your recommendations are grounded in your own investigation and the child's needs.

Is the information I handle confidential?

Yes. GAL volunteers handle sensitive information about children and families and are bound by confidentiality rules. Share information only as your role and the court require, and never discuss case details outside the appropriate channels. Protecting a child's privacy is part of protecting the child.

How do I become a GAL volunteer?

The path generally runs through your state or local GAL or CASA program: an application, a background check, pre-service training, being sworn in, and then your first case assignment. Our step-by-step guide on becoming a Guardian ad Litem volunteer walks through the whole process in detail.