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I'm a new foster mom to a 5 yr old little girl. I've been reading here at this site and keep seeing the term GAL that seems to stand for something attorney for the foster kid. From what I'm reading if I want to be an advocate at all for this child and increase the chances of "child's best interest" then I need to be in contact with this person. I would at least want to knwo who to contact if there was a court hearing and could send my documentation when it happens. I'll be talkking to the social worker tomorrow and would like to ask for the right thing. Is the attorney for the foster kid called a GAL in PA or is it something else altogether?
I just want to have my ducks in a row and not find out after the fact that "if you had only done this or that".
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GAL is the Guardian ad Litem and yes its an attorney (Or court appointed representative) for the child. Your agency worker should know who has been appointed. Some additional information about that person:*Supposed to serve as the "eyes and ears" of the Court*The GAL should communicate with you regarding the child's needs and your efforts to meet those needs.[FONT=Verdana]*The GAL may also communicate with teachers, counselors, therapists, doctors, and anyone else who has relevant information.[/FONT][FONT=Verdana]*The GAL will make reports concerning the child to the court and may attend various court and other meetings.[/FONT] Our agency advised that the GAL may even stop in for home visits. They said it depends on who the GAL is and their caseload. Where in PA you located?
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From what I have seen it varies by county. My children had neither a GAL or a CASA. And when I contacted an advocacy service I would told that my children were not eligible because I was advocating for them. I am in SouthEast PA - feel free to PM me if you need assistance in that area, etc. Diane