How Do I Become a Guardian Ad Litem?
A guardian ad litem is a court-appointed guardian who supports the rights of a child in legal proceedings, but will not likely be a person with whom the child lives or even knows personally, other than through the court system. The position is usually created by the court system in cases where children are abused or neglected. In some cases, the position can be particularly contentious, especially in cases where parents are divorcing. In other cases, the guardian ad litem is simply a reassuring voice for the child. The main requirement to being a guardian ad litem is to have a love for children and want what is best for them. The position is not an easy one and takes a time commitment. That time commitment may be very sporadic but, during some weeks, could be very significant. In addition to advocating in court, the guardian ad litem will be expected to research the situation and perhaps make recommendations. While there is no special educational path required to become a guardian ad l
STEP 1: Contact Renee at (352) 374-3656 x. 2238 for an application packet for Alachua County. Contact Lisa at (904) 966-6237 for an application packet for Baker, Bradford and Union Counties. Contact Jenni at (352) 463-3135 for an application packet for Gilchrist and Levy Counties. STEP 2: Interview with Guardian ad Litem staff to review how much time you can spend, what types of cases may fit your particular situation and abilities including location, type of abuse, and your suitability for the program. STEP 3: Participate in Pre-Service training. This program includes 30 hours of training offered usually three times per year. STEP 4: After certification, meet with a Guardian ad Litem case coordinator to review cases needing a guardian and begin service. What type of commitment is required of Guardians ad Litem? Guardians are asked to commit at least one year to the program. A guardian may take one case, or several. Most guardians give several hours a week to their case, although less
