A trained community volunteer paired with an attorney to advocate for the best interests of children in the community.
Guardian ad Litem provides a unique volunteer opportunity for people with a sincere concern for the well-being of children.
The North Carolina Guardian ad Litem (GAL) program equips community volunteers to serve abused and neglected children by advocating for their best interests in court. In 1983, the North Carolina General Assembly established the Office of Guardian ad Litem Services as a division of the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts. Pursuant to G.S. 7B-601, when a petition alleging abuse or neglect of a juvenile is filed in district court, the judge appoints a volunteer GAL advocate and an attorney advocate to provide team representation to the child, who has full party status in trial and appellate proceedings. All GAL advocates are trained, supervised, and supported by program staff in each county of the state. The collaborative model of GAL attorney advocates, volunteers, and staff ensures that all North Carolina children who are alleged by the Department of Social Services to have been abused or neglected receive GAL legal advocacy services. Learn more about the program Guardian ad Litem Districts Map
Child Advocate Month acknowledges the importance of families and communities working together to advocate for children.
By North Carolina Judicial Branch
Pro bono attorneys who have become a vital part of the North Carolina Guardian ad Litem (NCGAL) Program.
By North Carolina Judicial Branch
Chief Justice Paul Newby proclaims April as North Carolina Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Appreciation Month for the Judicial Branch.
