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Guardian ad Litem (GALs)
What is a GAL?
A GAL is a person appointed by the court to gather information and prepare recommendations concerning children involved in some family matters and child protection cases. The GAL’s job is to help the court determine what is in the best interest of the child.
A GAL may be an attorney, a licensed mental health (MH) professional, or a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Some kinds of GALs are eligible to be appointed only in certain types of cases. All GALs receive special training to perform their work.
For parents in cases involving a GAL
If you currently are, or are interested in becoming a GAL
- For Rostered GALs (licensed attorneys and licensed MH professionals)
- For Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) GALs (trained and supported volunteers assisting in child protection cases)
Contact
Administrative Office of the Courts
Guardian ad Litem Services
1 Court Street, Suite 301
Augusta, ME 04330
Phone: (207) 213-2865
Email: galadministrative@courts.maine.gov
Become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)
A Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA, is a volunteer guardian ad litem (GAL) who assists the court in child protection cases. CASA GALs come from all walks of life.