Part I — The New Hampshire GAL Program
1.1 What Is the NH GAL Program?
New Hampshire's Guardian ad Litem program operates under the authority of the NH Division for Children, Youth and Families (DCYF), a division of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The state's child protection framework is codified in RSA Chapter 169-C (the Child Protection Act), which mandates the appointment of a Guardian ad Litem for children in abuse and neglect proceedings to represent the child's best interests independent of parents, the state agency, and all other parties.
CASA NH (Court Appointed Special Advocates of New Hampshire) is the statewide umbrella organization that recruits, trains, and supervises volunteer GALs who serve in the Family Division of the New Hampshire Circuit Court. New Hampshire's small size — nine counties and a relatively concentrated population — allows for a tightly coordinated state program.
Core Mission: You are the independent voice for a child who cannot effectively speak for themselves in a legal proceeding. Your job is to investigate, report, and advocate — and to keep coming back until the case is closed.
NH Division for Children, Youth and Families (DCYF)
The state child welfare agency responsible for child protection investigations, foster care, and case management in New Hampshire. DCYF social workers are your primary agency partners on every case.
CASA NH
Court Appointed Special Advocates of New Hampshire. Statewide organization that operates the volunteer GAL program in partnership with the NH Circuit Court Family Division. Provides training, supervision, and advocacy support to volunteer GALs statewide.
NH Circuit Court — Family Division
The court of jurisdiction for all child abuse, neglect, and dependency proceedings in New Hampshire. The Family Division handles abuse/neglect (RSA 169-C), children in need of services (CHINS, RSA 169-D), and termination of parental rights matters.
NH DHHS — Office of Child Protection
The state-level administrative office overseeing DCYF's child protection and foster care programs. Sets policy, oversees federal compliance, and coordinates training standards for child welfare professionals statewide.
⚖️ Legal Foundation
1.2 Governing Statutes
The following statutes form the legal foundation of your work as a New Hampshire GAL. You do not need to memorize them, but you should know they exist and where to find them.
RSA Chapter 169-C — Child Protection Act
- RSA 169-C:3 — Definitions: Abused Child, Neglected Child
- RSA 169-C:7 — Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect
- RSA 169-C:10 — Appointment of Guardian ad Litem in abuse/neglect proceedings
- RSA 169-C:19 — Adjudicatory Hearing Procedures
- RSA 169-C:21 — Dispositional Hearing and Case Plan Requirements
- RSA 169-C:24 — Review Hearings and Permanency Planning
RSA Chapter 170-C — Termination of Parental Rights
- RSA 170-C:1–:25 — Grounds, procedures, and appeals for TPR proceedings in NH
- TPR requires clear and convincing evidence; GALs must submit a report addressing child's best interests and permanency prospects
RSA Chapter 169-D — Children in Need of Services (CHINS)
- RSA 169-D:2 — Definition of Child in Need of Services
- RSA 169-D:5 — Petition and referral process for CHINS matters
- GALs may be appointed in CHINS proceedings when the court determines representation is in the child's best interests
Federal Law
- CAPTA (42 U.S.C. § 5101) — Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act — mandates GAL appointment in abuse/neglect proceedings
- ASFA (P.L. 105-89) — Adoption and Safe Families Act — establishes the 12-month permanency timeline
- ICWA (25 U.S.C. § 1901) — Indian Child Welfare Act — applies when a child is a member or eligible for membership in a federally recognized tribe
- FFPSA (P.L. 115-123) — Family First Prevention Services Act — prioritizes family preservation and prevention services
👤 Your Role & Responsibilities
1.3 Statutory Duties (RSA 169-C:10)
Under RSA 169-C:10, the court appoints a Guardian ad Litem to represent the best interests of the child in all abuse and neglect proceedings. Your role is distinct from every other party — you represent neither the state agency nor the parents, but the child alone.
🔍 Investigate
Conduct an independent investigation of the child's circumstances, history, needs, and family background. Interview parents, caregivers, teachers, counselors, and medical providers. Review DCYF records and court documents. Visit the child in their placement.
📣 Advocate
Represent the child's best interests at every hearing and in every interaction with the system. Submit written court reports before each hearing. Present your findings and recommendations directly to the Family Division judge.
🔗 Connect
Identify resources — mental health services, educational support, housing stability, medical care — that can benefit the child and family. Connect families with available services and follow up to ensure those services are actually delivered.
📋 Report
Write and file a court report before each scheduled hearing. Your report is the judge's window into the child's daily life and current needs. Be factual, specific, and timely. Reports should be submitted to CASA NH staff and your supervising attorney for review before filing.
1.4 Ethical Obligations
- All case information is strictly confidential under RSA 169-C:25. Do not discuss case details with family, friends, or on social media.
- Your obligation is to the child's best interests — not what the child wants, not the parents' wishes, not what DCYF recommends.
- You may not accept gifts from any party, family member, or interested person.
- Conflicts of interest must be reported to your CASA NH supervisor immediately.
- You are not a caseworker, therapist, or attorney. Do not provide legal advice, counseling, or case management services.
- When in doubt, call your CASA NH supervisor before acting.
1.5 Getting Started: Your First Steps on a Case
Step 1 — Contact Your CASA NH Supervisor
Receive your case assignment, review available background, and discuss the case status and any upcoming hearings.
Step 2 — Review Available Records
Request and review the DCYF court report, petition, and any existing orders. Your CASA NH supervisor can help you access these materials.
Step 3 — Meet the Child
Visit the child in their current placement as soon as possible. For young children, observe the environment. For older children, build rapport before discussing difficult topics.
Step 4 — Interview Key Adults
Talk to parents, foster parents, teachers, therapists, and anyone with relevant knowledge of the child. Document every contact with date, duration, and summary.
Step 5 — Identify Resources
Based on your investigation, identify services that may benefit the child — mental health counseling, tutoring, medical care, housing support, or cultural connections.
Step 6 — Write and Submit Your Report
Submit your court report to your CASA NH supervisor well before the court deadline. See the Court Report Guide section below for format and content guidance.
🤝 The MDT Team — Who You Work With
CASA NH Supervisor
Your primary point of contact. Assigns cases, provides training, reviews court reports, and supports you throughout the case. Call them when you have questions — that is exactly what they are there for.
DCYF Social Worker
The caseworker assigned by the NH Division for Children, Youth and Families. DCYF files the petition, develops the case plan, and manages placement. You work alongside — but independently of — the DCYF worker.
DCYF Attorney
The attorney who represents the state (DCYF) in court proceedings. Not your attorney. Maintain a professional working relationship, but remember your client is the child.
The Family Division Judge
The circuit court judge assigned to the child welfare case. The judge reads your report carefully. Write every report as if the judge will scrutinize every sentence — because they will.
Parent Attorneys
Attorneys appointed to represent the parents. They advocate for the parents' rights, not the child's best interests. Coordinate professionally, especially regarding access to the child for visits.
Foster Parent / Caregiver
The individual or family providing day-to-day care for the child. One of your most important information sources. Build a positive, professional relationship — they see the child every day.
Child's Therapist / Mental Health Provider
With appropriate releases, the child's therapist can provide critical context about trauma history, attachment, behavioral concerns, and treatment progress. Always coordinate through DCYF for proper release authorization.
School Liaison / Teacher
A child's school performance often reflects their overall stability. School records, teacher observations, and the school social worker or counselor are important information sources for every GAL report.
🏛️ Part II — The Child Welfare System in NH
2.1 How Cases Enter the System
Every NH child welfare case begins with a report. Any person who suspects child abuse or neglect is required under RSA 169-C:29 to report to DCYF's toll-free hotline (1-800-894-5533, staffed 24/7). New Hampshire requires mandatory reporting of abuse and neglect for all adults — professionals and citizens alike.
Upon receiving a report, DCYF must assess whether abuse, neglect, or the child's safety requires immediate intervention. If DCYF concludes that court action is necessary, it files a petition with the Family Division of the NH Circuit Court. That filing triggers the appointment of the GAL Program through CASA NH.
NH DCYF Child Abuse Reporting Hotline
- 📞 24-Hour Hotline: 1-800-894-5533
- 📍 NH DHHS / DCYF, 129 Pleasant St., Concord, NH 03301
- 🌐 dhhs.nh.gov
2.2 Definitions (RSA 169-C:3)
Abused Child
A person under 18 years of age who has been: (a) sexually abused; (b) intentionally physically injured; (c) psychologically injured so that said child exhibits symptoms of psychological injury; or (d) physically injured by other than accidental means.
Neglected Child
A person under 18 who has been: (a) abandoned; (b) without proper parental care or control, subsistence, education as required by law, or other care necessary for health, guidance, or well-being; (c) without shelter, clothing, or education due to the failure or inability of parents to provide these basic needs.
2.3 The Court Process: From Petition to Permanency
Report & Assessment
Report made to DCYF hotline. DCYF assesses and determines whether to file a petition for court intervention.
Emergency Removal / Ex Parte Order
If immediate safety concerns warrant removal, DCYF may seek an emergency ex parte order. The GAL is notified and assigned as quickly as possible.
Preliminary Hearing
Typically held within 5 days of removal. The court reviews the basis for removal and determines preliminary placement. GAL introduces themselves to the court.
Adjudicatory Hearing
The court determines whether the child is abused or neglected under RSA 169-C. Rules of evidence apply. GAL may present evidence and cross-examine witnesses.
Dispositional Hearing
Follows adjudication. The court determines placement, develops the case plan, and sets initial service orders. GAL court report is critical here.
Review Hearings
Held every 6 months to review case plan compliance, child's well-being, and progress toward permanency. GAL submits updated report before each review.
Permanency Hearing
Required within 12 months of removal. Court establishes a permanent plan — reunification, adoption, guardianship, or another planned permanent living arrangement (APPLA).
TPR & Post-TPR
If reunification fails, DCYF or GAL may petition for termination of parental rights under RSA 170-C. Case continues until adoption or permanent plan is achieved.
📅 Hearing Types & Your Role
| Hearing Type |
Timing |
GAL Focus |
| Preliminary Hearing |
Within 5 days of removal |
Introduce yourself; gather initial information; review basis for removal and placement |
| Adjudicatory Hearing |
Within 60 days of petition |
Present investigation findings; examine or cross-examine witnesses; advocate for findings that reflect the child's experience |
| Dispositional Hearing |
Within 30 days of adjudication |
Submit court report; advocate for placement, services, and case plan that serve child's best interests |
| Review Hearing |
Every 6 months |
Report on child's current status, service delivery, parental progress, and whether placement remains appropriate |
| Permanency Hearing |
Within 12 months of removal |
Advocate for the permanency plan that best serves the child's long-term safety and stability |
| TPR Hearing |
Per DCYF or GAL petition (RSA 170-C) |
Report on child's attachment, placement stability, and prospects for adoption or guardianship |
| Post-TPR / Pre-Adoption Review |
Every 6 months post-TPR |
Monitor adoption or guardianship progress; advocate for timely finalization; flag delays |
🦅 ICWA & Tribal Inquiry in New Hampshire
The Indian Child Welfare Act (25 U.S.C. §§ 1901–1963) applies in any custody proceeding involving a child who is an Indian child — a member of, or eligible for membership in, a federally recognized tribe where the biological parent is also a member.
New Hampshire Has No Federally Recognized Tribes — But ICWA Inquiry Is Still Required
New Hampshire does not have any federally recognized tribal nations within its borders. However, New Hampshire has a significant Indigenous heritage population including descendants of the Western Abenaki (Penobscot, Abenaki), and the Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook-Abenaki People. Several New England tribes from neighboring states — including the Penobscot Nation and Passamaquoddy Tribe (Maine) and the St. Francis/Sokoki Band of Abenaki (Vermont) — are federally recognized and may have members residing in New Hampshire. New Hampshire GALs must still conduct ICWA inquiry on every case because a child in NH may have ancestry from any federally recognized tribe in the United States, including those located in other states.
Mandatory ICWA Inquiry Steps
✓Ask both biological parents and any known extended family members whether the child may have any Native American or Alaska Native ancestry
✓Document the inquiry in your case notes — the inquiry must appear on the record at the first hearing
✓If any tribal affiliation is indicated, notify DCYF and your CASA NH supervisor immediately so the tribe can be formally notified per ICWA notice requirements
✓The tribe — not the family, DCYF, or the GAL — determines ICWA eligibility and tribal membership
✓If ICWA applies, placement preferences shift to Indian family, extended family, tribal member homes, or tribal foster homes (in that order) under 25 U.S.C. § 1915
✓ICWA requires "active efforts" — a higher standard than "reasonable efforts" — to prevent family breakup and to facilitate reunification when an Indian child is involved
New Hampshire ICWA Considerations
- The Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook-Abenaki People is a state-recognized tribe in NH; ICWA does not apply to state-recognized-only tribes, but cultural connections should still be considered in the child's best interests analysis
- Children of Penobscot Nation, Passamaquoddy, or Maliseet (Houlton Band of Maliseet) descent from Maine may be enrolled members residing in NH — always ask
- NH's proximity to Canada means some families may have ancestry in First Nations bands not recognized under ICWA — use cultural sensitivity while following federal ICWA requirements
- Contact NICWA (National Indian Child Welfare Association) for technical assistance in any case with possible tribal involvement
🪶 Tribal Resources & Contacts
Penobscot Nation — Department of Social Services
Indian Island, Maine (nearest federally recognized tribe)
Penobscot Nation Social Services: (207) 817-7385. The Penobscot Nation is one of the nearest federally recognized tribes to NH. Members may reside in NH — contact if Penobscot ancestry is identified. penobscotnation.org
Passamaquoddy Tribe — Social Services
Perry, Maine
Passamaquoddy Social Services: (207) 853-2600. Another federally recognized Maine tribe with possible NH-resident members. Contact if Passamaquoddy ancestry is identified in a NH case.
Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi (VT)
Swanton, Vermont
State-recognized Vermont Abenaki band with cultural ties to New Hampshire. ICWA does not apply (not federally recognized) but cultural connections should be considered in the child's best interests. (802) 868-2559
Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook-Abenaki People
New Hampshire
NH state-recognized tribe. Does not trigger ICWA (not federally recognized) but cultural identity and connections are meaningful to the child's best interests analysis. Contact through nhcowasuck.org
NICWA — National Indian Child Welfare Association
National Technical Assistance
nicwa.org | (503) 222-4044. Provides ICWA training, tribal contact identification, and technical assistance for complex cases. Essential resource when tribal affiliation is uncertain or multiple tribes may be involved.
BIA Northeast Regional Office
Nashville, TN (serves NH)
Bureau of Indian Affairs Eastern Regional Office assists with ICWA compliance, tribal verification, and enrollment questions for cases involving federally recognized tribes in the Northeast. (615) 564-6500
🎓 Education Rights of Foster Youth
Education stability is a critical advocacy area for New Hampshire GALs. NH's relatively small school districts and tight-knit communities can be assets in maintaining school stability — but placement changes, especially across county lines, can still disrupt a child's educational continuity. New Hampshire implements federal ESSA and McKinney-Vento requirements through state-level policies coordinated by DCYF and the NH Department of Education.
NH RSA 189:1-e / ESSA Foster Care Provisions
School Stability for Children in Foster Care
Under New Hampshire's ESSA implementation, school districts must collaborate with DCYF to keep foster children in their school of origin when it is in their best interests. Transportation must be arranged even when a placement crosses district lines. GALs should advocate for a School of Origin determination at every placement change.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Special Education Rights in Foster Care
Children in foster care retain all IDEA rights regardless of placement changes. The IEP transfers with the child and must be honored immediately. If no parent holds educational decision-making authority, the court may appoint the GAL or a surrogate parent. Confirm educational authority in the court order before exercising it.
McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. § 11431)
Homeless Education Rights
Emergency or transitional placements may also trigger McKinney-Vento protections for immediate enrollment, records transfer, and transportation. Contact the school district's McKinney-Vento liaison if both ESSA and McKinney-Vento protections may apply.
Key Education Advocacy Points for NH GALs
✓Obtain school records and the most recent report card at every case review — academic regression is often the first visible sign of broader instability in a child's placement
✓Confirm at every placement change whether a School of Origin determination has been made by DCYF and the school district — document your advocacy on this issue in your court report
✓For children with IEPs, confirm the new school has received the IEP and is implementing it — delays in IEP implementation are common and must be flagged immediately
✓Ask the foster parent or caregiver at every visit whether the child is attending school regularly, completing homework, and whether any school concerns have arisen since the last visit
✓NH youth in foster care ages 18–21 who have not yet graduated may be eligible for extended education services — ask DCYF about eligibility and advocate accordingly
📝 Courtroom Practice
Before the Hearing
- Submit your written court report to CASA NH staff and the court at least 3–5 business days before the hearing
- Review DCYF's report and any parent attorney filings before the hearing date
- Communicate with your CASA NH supervisor about your recommendations and any contested issues
- If you plan to present witnesses or exhibits, coordinate with your supervisor and the court well in advance
During the Hearing
- Arrive early, check in with the clerk, and identify yourself to the judge as the GAL for the child
- Be prepared to orally summarize your written report and answer questions from the judge
- You may examine or cross-examine witnesses in the Family Division — coordinate with CASA NH if you intend to call witnesses
- State your recommendations clearly: placement, services, contact, permanency plan
After the Hearing
- Obtain a copy of the court order — this governs the case until the next hearing
- Review the order for assigned tasks: DCYF services, parental requirements, GAL monitoring duties
- Communicate the hearing outcome to the child in age-appropriate terms as soon as possible
- Begin your documentation cycle for the next review period immediately
If You Disagree With the Order
- Contact your CASA NH supervisor immediately — appeals have strict deadlines in NH Family Division
- Document your reasoning thoroughly in writing before any appeal deadline passes
- Under RSA 169-C, the GAL has standing to be heard on issues affecting the child's best interests
- Your supervisor and program legal advisor will guide any appeal process — never act independently without direction
📍 Local Resources — Manchester / Hillsborough County
CASA NH — Manchester Office
Manchester, New Hampshire
CASA NH trains, supports, and supervises volunteer GALs throughout New Hampshire. Manchester/Hillsborough County is CASA NH's largest service area. (603) 626-4600 | casanh.org
NH DCYF — Manchester District Office
Manchester, New Hampshire
DCYF's primary district office serving Hillsborough County. Child Protection Services intake, foster care, and case management. 1650 Elm St., Manchester, NH 03101. (603) 668-2330
Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County (CAC)
Manchester, New Hampshire
Provides forensic interviews, multidisciplinary team coordination, and therapeutic services for child abuse victims in Hillsborough County. Key referral resource for new abuse cases. (603) 668-6981
New Horizons — Manchester Shelter
Manchester, New Hampshire
Emergency shelter, food, and social services for families and individuals in Manchester. Key resource for families facing housing instability during child welfare cases. (603) 668-1060 | newhorizonsnh.org
Legal Aid — NH Legal Assistance (Manchester)
Manchester, New Hampshire
Free civil legal services for low-income residents throughout NH. Family law, housing, and benefits assistance available. (603) 623-2700 | nhla.org
Greater Manchester Mental Health Center
Manchester, New Hampshire
Community mental health center providing outpatient therapy, crisis services, and children's behavioral health services in Manchester. Accepts Medicaid. (603) 668-4111 | gmhcnh.org
Waypoint (formerly Child & Family Services)
Manchester, New Hampshire
Statewide child welfare and family services nonprofit. Adoption, foster care support, family stabilization, and youth services throughout NH. Manchester: (603) 669-6481 | waypointnh.org
Families in Transition
Manchester, New Hampshire
Emergency family shelter and transitional housing in Manchester. Serves families with children facing homelessness, including families involved in child welfare proceedings. (603) 641-9441 | fitnh.org
🧠 Mental Health Resources
Children in New Hampshire's foster care system experience trauma-related mental health needs at elevated rates. NH has faced significant behavioral health provider shortages in rural areas — making GAL advocacy for timely, appropriate mental health services essential. Key mental health referral resources include:
NH Bureau of Children's Behavioral Health
Concord, New Hampshire
State bureau overseeing children's mental health services, including community mental health centers, crisis services, and System of Care coordination. dhhs.nh.gov | (603) 271-5034
NH Crisis Line (988 / Rapid Response)
Statewide — New Hampshire
Dial 988 for the NH Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Mobile crisis response available statewide. NH DHHS also operates a 24/7 crisis line: 1-844-711-HELP (4357). Youth-specific crisis support available.
Child Health Services — NH Division of Public Health
Concord, New Hampshire
Coordinates children's health programs including mental health, developmental disability services, and early intervention. Can assist with referrals for children with complex behavioral health needs.
Dartmouth Health — Children's Behavioral Health
Lebanon, New Hampshire
Comprehensive pediatric behavioral health services at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. Inpatient, outpatient, and trauma-informed care available. Accepts Medicaid. (603) 650-5000 | dartmouth-hitchcock.org
Riverbend Community Mental Health
Concord, New Hampshire
Community mental health center serving Merrimack County. Children's outpatient therapy, crisis services, and case management. Accepts Medicaid. (603) 228-1551 | riverbendcmhc.org
The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester
Manchester, New Hampshire
Full-spectrum behavioral health services including trauma-focused CBT for children and adolescents in the Manchester area. Accepts Medicaid and most insurance. (603) 668-4111
🏠 Housing & Basic Needs
NH Housing Finance Authority
Bedford, New Hampshire
Administers affordable housing programs, rental assistance, and Section 8 vouchers in New Hampshire. Key resource for families seeking stable housing as part of DCYF case plan compliance. (603) 472-8623 | nhhfa.org
211 NH
Statewide — New Hampshire
Dial 2-1-1 for statewide referrals to housing, food, utilities, mental health, and other social services. Available 24/7. Comprehensive social service database for all NH counties. 211nh.org
Salvation Army — NH
Manchester / Concord, New Hampshire
Emergency food assistance, utility bill assistance, and family support services. Key resource for families with immediate basic needs during child welfare proceedings. Manchester: (603) 623-4870
NH Food Bank
Manchester, New Hampshire
Statewide food bank distributing food through a network of food pantries and meal programs across all NH counties. Families can locate their nearest pantry at nhfoodbank.org. (603) 669-9725
Concord Coalition to End Homelessness
Concord, New Hampshire
Coordinates homeless services and outreach in the Concord area. Provides rapid rehousing assistance and connects families to emergency shelter and transitional housing. concordcoalition.org | (603) 226-8998
NH Division of Economic and Housing Stability
Concord, New Hampshire
DHHS division administering Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA), fuel assistance (LIHEAP), and other economic stability programs. Key resource for parents working to achieve housing stability for reunification.
🌐 NH Statewide Resources
CASA NH — Statewide
Concord, New Hampshire
Court Appointed Special Advocates of New Hampshire. Statewide CASA program serving all NH counties. Volunteer recruitment, training, and support. (603) 626-4600 | casanh.org
NH DCYF — Statewide
Concord, New Hampshire
NH Division for Children, Youth and Families. Child protection, foster care, adoption, and family support statewide. 24-hour abuse hotline: 1-800-894-5533. dhhs.nh.gov/dcyf
NH Legal Assistance
Statewide — New Hampshire
Statewide legal aid organization serving low-income clients in civil matters including family law and housing. Offices in Manchester, Concord, Dover, and Littleton. (603) 623-2700 | nhla.org
Waypoint (Child & Family Services)
Statewide — New Hampshire
NH's largest child welfare and family services nonprofit. Adoption, foster family recruitment, family stabilization, and youth services. (603) 524-6555 | waypointnh.org
NH DHHS — Family Resource Centers
Statewide — New Hampshire
Family Resource Centers are community-based hubs serving families with children 0–18 in every region of NH. Provide parenting education, child development, and family support services that support DCYF case plan goals.
NH Bar Foundation / Volunteer Lawyers Project
Concord, New Hampshire
Pro bono legal services for low-income NH residents. Can assist parents with civil legal needs that affect child welfare outcomes — housing disputes, benefits appeals, domestic violence protective orders. nhbar.org | (603) 229-0002
🇺🇸 Federal Resources
Children's Bureau (ACF/HHS)
Washington, D.C.
Federal agency overseeing child welfare programs nationwide. Provides policy guidance, funding oversight, and training resources. childwelfare.gov is the primary online resource for federal child welfare information and training materials.
Child Welfare Information Gateway
childwelfare.gov
Comprehensive online resource for child welfare professionals and volunteers. State-by-state statutes, practice guides, ICWA resources, and training modules. Free and publicly accessible. childwelfare.gov
National CASA/GAL Association
Seattle, Washington
National organization supporting CASA and GAL programs. Training resources, research, advocacy tools, and peer support for CASA volunteers and staff nationwide. casaforchildren.org | (800) 628-3233
HHS/ACF — Region I (Boston)
Boston, Massachusetts
HHS Administration for Children and Families Region I office, which oversees federal child welfare funding and compliance for all six New England states including New Hampshire. acf.hhs.gov
NICWA — National Indian Child Welfare Association
Portland, Oregon
National technical assistance on ICWA compliance, tribal consultation, and culturally appropriate practice. Essential resource for any NH case with possible Native American ancestry. nicwa.org | (503) 222-4044
Fostering Connections Resource Center
fosteringconnections.org
Provides implementation support for the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act, including kinship care, extended foster care (age 18–21), and education and training vouchers for foster youth.
💛 Working with Children — Trauma-Informed Practice
Every child in the NH child welfare system has experienced some form of trauma. Trauma-informed practice is not optional for GALs — it is foundational. The way you interact with a child can either reinforce their trauma or begin to counteract it.
🔒 Safety First
Children who have experienced trauma may not feel safe with unknown adults. Always introduce yourself clearly, explain your role in simple terms appropriate to the child's age, and let the child set the pace of interaction. Never pressure a child to share information they are not ready to share.
🤝 Build Trust Slowly
Trust is earned through consistency. Show up when you say you will. Follow through on promises. Remember the child's interests, favorites, and experiences between visits. Children in care have often had trust broken repeatedly — your consistency is itself a therapeutic intervention.
👂 Active Listening
Reflect what children say back to them to show you heard. Validate feelings without agreeing with distortions. Ask open-ended questions rather than leading questions. "Tell me what that was like" is far more powerful than "Was it scary?"
🧠 Understand Trauma Responses
Behaviors like anger, withdrawal, hypervigilance, lying, or aggression are often trauma responses — not character flaws. A child who appears not to care may be dissociating. A child who is angry may be terrified. Interpret behavior through a trauma lens before drawing conclusions.
🗣️ Age-Appropriate Communication
Adjust your language and interaction style to the child's developmental stage, not just their chronological age. Children in foster care often have developmental delays or emotional ages younger than their birth age due to trauma and instability.
⚖️ Maintain Boundaries
You are the child's advocate, not their friend, therapist, or parent. Maintaining appropriate boundaries protects both the child and your effectiveness as a GAL. If a child begins to rely on you in a way that concerns you, discuss it with your CASA NH supervisor immediately.
📄 Court Report Writing Guide
Your court report is your most important tool. It is the document the Family Division judge reads before every hearing. A well-written, factual, specific report can change a child's life. A vague or late report is a missed opportunity. Follow this guide for every report you write.
1. Case Identification
Include the child's name (or initials, per court preference), date of birth, case number, hearing type, hearing date, and the GAL's name and contact information. Confirm the court, county, and judge's name.
2. Contacts Made Since Last Report
List every contact you made during the reporting period: visits with the child, interviews with parents, foster parents, teachers, therapists, DCYF workers. Include date, location, and duration of each contact. This section demonstrates your active investigation.
3. Child's Current Status
Describe the child's current placement, school attendance and performance, physical health, emotional and behavioral status, and any significant events or changes since the last report. Be specific and factual — describe what you observed, not what you were told by others.
4. Parental Compliance and Progress
Report factually on each parent's compliance with the case plan: services completed, services not completed, visitation attendance, and quality. Avoid characterizing parents positively or negatively — report the facts and let the court draw conclusions.
5. Child's Wishes (If Age-Appropriate)
For children old enough to express a preference (typically age 7 and older, depending on maturity), include the child's expressed wishes regarding placement, contact, and other matters. Note that the child's wishes are informative but not determinative — your role is to advocate for the child's best interests.
6. GAL Assessment
This is your professional assessment of the child's situation based on your investigation. Address: whether the current placement is appropriate; whether the child's needs are being met; whether the case plan is being implemented; and any safety concerns or unmet needs.
7. Recommendations
State your recommendations clearly and specifically: current placement continuation or change, services to be ordered, contact arrangements, permanency plan, and any other court action you are requesting. Do not be vague — "the child needs services" is not a recommendation. "The court should order an independent psychological evaluation" is.
8. Signature and Certification
Sign and date your report. In NH, the GAL's report is submitted to the court and all parties. Confirm with your CASA NH supervisor the current filing requirements and deadlines for the county where your case is being heard.