One of the most confusing parts of dependency court is the number of professionals involved. As a parent, you need to understand who’s who, what their job is, and how to interact with them strategically.
Who Is the GAL (Guardian ad Litem)?
A Guardian ad Litem is a court-appointed attorney (or trained advocate) who represents the best interests of the child in court—not necessarily what the child wants.
Their duties include:
- Interviewing all parties (parents, foster caregivers, schools)
- Reviewing reports and medical records
- Making placement and service recommendations to the judge
- Attending all court hearings
Their opinion carries significant weight in the judge’s decision-making.
Tip: Treat the GAL like a neutral investigator. Be respectful and cooperative, even if you don’t agree with their assessment.
What Does the DCS Caseworker Do?
The DCS caseworker:
- Investigates allegations of abuse or neglect
- Coordinates reunification services
- Makes recommendations to the court
- Supervises visitation and monitors safety
- Files reports about your progress
The caseworker is not the judge, but their documentation plays a huge role in what the court decides.
Tip: Maintain consistent, documented contact. Communicate clearly, meet deadlines, and ask for written case plans.
At Modern Law, we help you prepare for these interactions, set expectations, and communicate in a way that supports reunification.
