Guardians ad Litem

What is a guardian ad litem (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

More information may be found below:

• GALs in child protection cases; or
• GALs in family matters or probate-related cases.

If you currently are, or are interested in becoming a GAL

More information may be found on the pages below:

• 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)

GAL Services Contact Information

Administrative Office of the Courts - Guardian ad Litem Services
1 Court Street, Suite 301, Augusta, ME 04330
Email: galadministrative@courts.maine.gov 
Telephone: (207) 213-2865