North Dakota Guardian ad Litem Program
Information and advocacy for young people with a Guardian ad Litem appointed by the court.
Available in
Statewide
For Young People
If a judge appointed a Guardian ad Litem, or GAL, your GAL’s job is to learn about what is happening in your life and make recommendations to the judge about what they believe is in your best interest. Your GAL may meet with you, talk with adults involved in your life, review information, attend court hearings, and provide information to the judge. Your GAL is not your attorney, and they do not make the final decision. The judge does. Your GAL’s recommendation may not always be exactly what you want, but what you think, how you feel, and what you want adults to understand are important parts of their work. If you have questions about what your GAL does or want them to understand something that matters to you, talk with your GAL or contact the Youthworks Guardian ad Litem Program.
For Parents, Caregivers & Community Partners
Youthworks administers North Dakota’s Guardian ad Litem Program, providing trained GALs who are appointed by the court to independently assess and advocate for the best interests of youth involved in qualifying court proceedings. GALs gather information from youth, family members, professionals, records, and other relevant sources; participate in court proceedings; and provide recommendations to the court based on the youth’s safety, well-being, and best interests. A GAL is not the youth’s attorney, legal custodian, social worker, or the decision-maker. The court makes the final decisions. Understanding a youth’s experiences, perspective, relationships, strengths, and wishes is an essential part of meaningful best-interest advocacy. For questions about the Guardian ad Litem Program, appointments, or program processes, contact Youthworks.
How to get connected
Call, email, or message Youthworks to learn more about North Dakota Guardian ad Litem Program. Youthworks can explain current options and the next step for your situation.