What is the time commitment for a Guardian ad Litem volunteer?
The initial training period to be certified as a Guardian ad Litem is 30 hours. These classes are offered monthly, generally over a two week period. Only six hours of continuing education are required for annual re-certification. Continuing education classes are offered monthly for Volunteer convenience, in addition to other continuing education opportunities. Once you are assigned a case the average time commitment is 8 to 12 hours monthly. This would include information gathering, reviewing reports, visiting the child and possible court appearance. Each case is different so the time commitment can vary, but generally a newly assigned case will take a little more time because you will be getting to know the child and learning about the case. Other cases may take less time depending on the situation and length of time the case has been open.