Vermont Judiciary needs Guardians Ad Litem

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The Vermont Judiciary is looking for compassionate people with flexible schedules, reliable transportation and internet access to volunteer as Guardians ad Litem. When the Department for Children and Families seeks to take a child into their custody, Vermont law requires the court to appoint a Guardian ad Litem to serve as a special advocate who protects a child’s best interests in juvenile court cases. These usually involve allegations of abuse or neglect. As you might imagine, a background check is required to serve as a Guardian ad Litem.

A Guardian ad Litem works closely with the child’s attorney, meets with the child regularly, and gathers information from people involved in the child’s life to understand the child’s needs and advocate for their best interests in court. The goal is to ensure the child has a safe, stable, and permanent home as quickly as possible.

To become a Guardian ad Litem you must complete 32 hours of training, which is provided by the Judiciary, and a mentorship with an experienced Guardian prior to being appointed to a case.

Currently, there is an urgent need for volunteers and too many children risk not having this essential support in their lives. The need is especially great in underserved communities such as Bennington County.

For more information visit VermontJudiciary.org/GAL, email Jud.VermontGAL@vtcourts.gov or call 800-622-6359. The Judiciary welcomes volunteer candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

The program’s next hybrid training will be January 12, 19, and 26 and February 2. The trainings on January 12 and February 2 will be in-person trainings in Berlin. The trainings on January 19 and 26 will be held over Zoom.