Each year, thousands of Minnesota children are removed from their homes due to serious abuse allegations or safety concerns. Decisions about where they will live — and what happens next — are made in court. Many of these children are too young to meaningfully advocate for themselves, which is why having a court-appointed Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is so important.
A GAL represents a child’s best interests during abuse and neglect proceedings. In Minnesota, most GALs are state employees, while others serve as trained volunteers. Both play an important role in helping judges fully understand a child’s circumstances and needs.
This year, one of our three legislative priorities is to add one phrase to an existing statute that recognizes and protects the volunteer GALs within a unified statewide program.
The language of the existing statute would be edited to read:
The State Guardian Ad Litem Board shall create and administer a statewide, independent guardian ad litem program that includes volunteers and paid staff as guardians to advocate for the best interests of children.
Although every child should have a GAL, many do not because demand exceeds capacity. Volunteer advocates are essential to filling those gaps and ensuring every child’s best interests are considered.
We believe a strong GAL program creates a stronger child protection system. And we believe all children, especially those most vulnerable, should have someone looking out for their best interests.
We hope you agree and will join us at the Capitol to advocate for kids on April 14!