A Guardian ad Litem is a trained community volunteer who is appointed by a district court judge to investigate and determine the needs of abused and neglected children petitioned into the court system by the Department of Social Services.  The Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Volunteer makes independent recommendations to the court for services, which focus on the needs of each child.  The Guardian ad Litem advocates for a permanent and safe home for every child within the shortest time possible.