6th Circuit Guardian ad Litem Program--Clearwater

The Florida Guardian ad Litem Program is a partnership of community advocates and professional staff providing a powerful voice on behalf of Florida's abused and neglected children.

What does a Guardian ad Litem do?

The GAL represents the best interests of the child in a variety of ways. The GAL is an:

• INFORMATION GATHERER - The GAL independently conducts a thorough investigation on behalf of the child.

• MONITOR - The GAL serves as a monitor of the agencies and persons who provide services to the child.

* SPOKESPERSON - The GAL assures that the child's wishes are heard, and that the best interest of the child is presented to the Court and social service agencies dealing with the child.

• REPORTER - The GAL presents information through verbal and written reports to the court.