JOB A Guardian Ad Litem is a trained citizen volunteer appointed by the Juvenile Court to ensure that the needs and interests of abused or neglected children are being met. Volunteer Guardian Ad Litems are assigned to dependent children who are under the Juvenile Court’s jurisdiction and are assigned at the discretion of the Judge of the Juvenile Court.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES The following examples of duties and accountabilities illustrate the general range of tasks assigned to the position but are not intended to define the limits of required duties. Other essential duties may be assigned consistent with the general scope of the position. Employee must comply with all County and department policies, procedures, WAC’s, or other regulatory bodies.
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To serve as an arm of the Juvenile Court as researcher, monitor, and child advocate
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Interview child, parents, foster parents and any other concerned parties or relatives
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Review appropriate records and reports
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Work with Attorney General as counsel, representing the best interests of the child
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Confer with counselors, teachers, social workers, and others involved in the case
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Submit thorough, independently written reports for the Court to the Guardian Ad Litem Volunteer Coordinator prior to court hearings
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Appear in Court as needed to answer questions or testify on findings or recommendations
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Maintain records of all findings and document all contacts
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Visit institutions, foster homes or group homes where child is placed or may be placed
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Monitor court orders to ensure services to the child are being furnished in a timely manner and placement is appropriate
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Maintain regular contact with the Guardian Ad Litem Volunteer Coordinator and submit all requested documentation
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Remain involved in the case until the Court’s jurisdiction is terminated
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Work is performed in an office environment, in courtrooms, in various locations in the community including personal homes, schools and social service agencies. Personal supervision and counseling of juvenile clients as well as adult family or caregivers may expose incumbents to aggressive and assaultive behavior.
The physical abilities described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to walk, sit, write, hear and speak and lift up to 50lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
