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GUARDIAN AD LITEM | VERMONT JUDICIARY

Provides information and applications for individuals seeking to become a Guardian ad Litem (GAL). GALs are volunteer trained advocates who represent the best interests and rights of children throughout court proceedings and with DCF, speaking for the child when necessary and ensuring they understand the judicial process and outcomes. Guardians ad Litem are appointed for children in all CHINS cases (Child In Need of Supervision): children who are abused, neglected, considered beyond the control of their parents, or truant. GALs also are occasionally appointed in other situations including delinquency, divorce, parentage, and mental health cases.

Last Assured

06/21/2024

Physical Address

111 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05609

Hours

Monday-Friday: 8:00am-4:30pm

Fax

(802) 828-3457

Voice

(802) 828-3278

Other | Court Administrator

Application process

By Telephone; By Website

Fee

Free

Agency info

VERMONT JUDICIARY

The Vermont Judiciary encompasses the entire state court system and provides the public with services they need to access the courts and understand court operations in Vermont. The Vermont court system is administered by the Supreme Court. The court administrator, the administrative judge for trial courts, and court-appointed boards and committees assist the Supreme Court by seeing that administrative policies adopted by the court are carried out. Each county has a Superior Court, which is divided into four separate divisions: Civil, Criminal, Family, and Probate. There also is a statewide Environmental Division based in Burlington, which meets in various locations statewide. Statewide jurisdiction over civil violations is provided through the Judicial Bureau.