Florida Guardian ad Litem Program, 11th Circuit

The Guardian Ad Litem Program advocates for abused, neglected, and abandoned children who are involved in court proceedings.　 Volunteers are trained to represent the child’s best interests in all juvenile dependency court proceedings.　 Guardians ad Litem function as the voice for the child as well as the "eyes and ears" of the court, and make recommendations to the judge concerning the child’s social, physical, emotional, educational, and legal status. In Miami-Dade County alone, over 3,000 children are in foster care or protective services.　 These children are the unfortunate victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect, abandonment, drug-addicted parents or domestic violence.　 The crucial role of the Guardian volunteer is to protect the child’s best interests, understand the child’s needs, advocate for proper services, and monitor the case through the court process, assuring a safe and permanent home for every child.　Unfortunately, not every child has a Guardian volunteer. This is where you can make a difference!