Court Visitor / GAL
Court Visitor (CV) / Guardian Ad Litem (GAL)
A Court Visitor (CV) / Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) is an adult who is appointed by the court to represent the best interests of an individual for a specific purpose for a specific period of time. Under the direction of the court, a CV/GAL performs an investigation and prepares a report for the court of the CVs/GALs findings and recommendations. To become a CV/GAL, an individual must complete an approved training program, provide background information to the court(s) in which the CV/GAL wishes to serve, and meet all eligibility requirements set by local court rule or policy.
The role of the CV/GAL is to represent the best interest of the child(ren) or individuals subject to guardianship/conservatorship by making independent observations of the child(ren) or individual subject to guardianship/conservatorship and make a report to the court.
CV/GAL is different from a Certified Professional Guardian (CPG). A CPG is an individual or agency who serves as the legal guardian/conservator of at least three individuals and provides this service as a profession.
2021 Guardian Ad Litem/Court Visitor Registries
The Spokane County Superior Court Court Visitor/Guardian Ad Litem Registries are available here for informational purposes only. Please note, when the need arises for the appointment of a CV/GAL in a case involving a subject area for which there is a registry, the Court shall appoint a person from the registry on a rotational basis. In exceptional circumstances where the Court finds a need for specialized skills or training, the Court may appoint a CV/GAL out of rotational order or may appoint a person not listed on the registry. The Court must make written findings supporting such an appointment.
Resources
- Governing statutes are found in RCW 2.56, RCW 11.130, RCW 13.34, RCW 26.12, SPR 98.16W
- State Guardian Ad Litem Court Rules