Title 11 Guardian ad Litem and Court Visitor

About Title 11 Guardians ad Litem and Court Visitors

A guardian ad litem (GAL) is an individual who is appointed by the court to represent the best interests of an individual for a specific purpose for a specific period of time. A court visitor is an individual who is appointed by the court to inform the court about an individual's best interests for a specific purpose for a specific period of time. Under the direction of the court, GALs and Court Visitors perform an investigation and prepare a report for the court of their findings and recommendations. To become either a GAL and/or Court Visitor, an individual must complete an approved training program, provide background information to the court(s) in which they wish to serve, and meet all eligibility requirements set by local court rule or policy. The GAL/Court Visitor requirements and training for Title 11 guardianship cases involving minors is different than for cases involving adults.

Title 11 Court Visitors are often appointed to inform the court about the best interests of minors and adults in Title 11 guardianships. GALs may be appointed in certain circumstances. Court Visitors and GALs can be paid for their services, or serve as volunteers. Paid Court Visitors and GALs can be employed by a county, but more often are individuals who do Court Visitor or GAL work as part or full-time self-employment.

Statutes govern appointment of Court Visitors and GALs. Each superior court maintains a list, or registry, of individuals who are qualified to serve as a Court Visitor or a GAL. Appointments are generally made by rotation from the registry. The responsibilities and duties of Court Visitors and GALs are set forth by statute, court rule, and the order appointing the Court Visitor or GAL. Superior courts have their own procedures for filing a grievance against a Court Visitor or GAL.