What is a guardian ad litem?
A guardian ad litem is an attorney who is appointed by the court to represent the interests of a child or children in a family that is under court-ordered protective services. This attorney will be present at each court hearing and makes recommendations to the court regarding the case plan and progress in each case. The attorney is paid by the court and is independent and autonomous from the parent and the Health and Human Services Department.

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1. At what age is it appropriate to leave my child at home alone?
2. What constitutes child abuse and/or neglect?
3. Is homelessness a reason to remove a child from his or her parents?
4. If I make a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, will my identity be protected?
5. Can I make an anonymous report of child abuse or neglect?
6. What persons are mandated by the state to report suspected child abuse or neglect and what are the penalties for failure to report?
7. When would it be necessary to remove a child from his or her home?
8. What is a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)?
9. What is a guardian ad litem?