Juvenile Court Guardian ad Litem - 4th District (09536)

Minnesota Guardian ad Litem Program•Minneapolis, MN

About The Position

The Minnesota Guardian ad Litem Program seeks a full-time, represented, non-exempt Guardian ad Litem to advocate for children in juvenile court proceedings. Guardians ad Litem are independent from the court and child welfare system and are appointed by a judge to represent a child's best interests. This responsible work involves advocating for children in child abuse and neglect matters and making recommendations to the court. Work is performed under the supervision of a Program Coordinator and administered under the direction of the District GAL Program Manager. Duties must follow applicable Minnesota rules, statutes, administrative orders and policies, GAL Board Policies, Program Standards, and district and local program requirements. The role involves reviewing case files and discovery; interviewing children and others involved in their lives; observing children in homes and other settings; maintaining case records and calendars; preparing reports and recommendations; participating in hearings, meetings, and other proceedings; and coordinating with attorneys, families, agencies, and community resources. The Guardian ad Litem must consider the child's cultural background and seek culturally appropriate services and resources. Work includes anticipated exposure to extensive secondary trauma and ongoing conflict involving people affected by or responsible for domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and child neglect. Work is performed primarily indoors in offices, courtrooms, homes, and other community locations, with extensive local travel and possible out-of-county and out-of-state travel. Visits may include residences, placement or shelter facilities, foster homes, schools, medical facilities, and meetings with community leaders and service providers. Contact with parties in person or by phone during evenings and weekends is often required.

Requirements

Knowledge of the judicial process, rules, and law, including Minnesota Statutes.
Knowledge of the objectives, philosophy, policies, and procedures of the GAL Program.
Knowledge of child development and issues and dynamics in juvenile cases, including child abuse, domestic abuse, chemical dependency, and developmental disabilities.
Knowledge of community resources for placement, treatment, and other necessary services, including the ability to identify culturally appropriate community services.
Knowledge of the culture and demographics served in the community and the ability to work with diverse cultures.
Ability to interact professionally with judges, court administrators, staff, agency representatives, attorneys, children, and the public.
Ability to work independently, think critically, analyze complex family situations, and make objective, sound recommendations in the child's best interest.
Ability to develop and maintain respectful, cooperative working relationships with coworkers.
Ability to remain professional and composed in crisis situations and defuse high-conflict, complex situations.
Ability to receive feedback, learn, and embrace continuous improvement.
Ability to find and work with an interpreter when necessary.
Appropriate listening, oral communication, written communication, and critical observation skills for interviewing, oral presentations, and formal court reports.
Time and resource management skills and ability to create and maintain accurate, complete, up-to-date files.
Novice proficiency with technology and relevant computer software programs and databases.
Novice typing skills and ability to use basic office equipment.

Responsibilities

Examine files and discovery for information and documents relevant to the child, case facts, and circumstances.
Observe children in their homes and other settings, including their interactions with caretakers, peers, and others.
Prepare appropriate interview questions and interview children and others involved with them using recommended techniques.
Obtain releases of information and call and question witnesses when appropriate.
Respond to questions about cases.
Consider children's cultural backgrounds and cultural issues when working with families and communities and making recommendations to the court.
Identify culturally appropriate placement, treatment, and other necessary services for children and families.
Organize and catalogue case notes and records in the case management system, ensuring accuracy and compliance with program requirements and access rules.
Follow record confidentiality and access rules.
Maintain accurate, up-to-date calendars of hearings.
Prepare written reports and other documentation for written and oral recommendations to the court or testimony as required.
File reports and materials on time and store and close files according to district and county policies.
Determine when to request legal representation for self and/or the child and work with an attorney on case preparation and review as needed.
Attend individual supervision meetings, administrative reviews, case plan meetings, and other proceedings as the child's advocate.
Attend program staff meetings and continuing education sessions as scheduled.
Participate in local, district, and/or state task forces and committees.
May accompany and/or mentor new Guardians ad Litem.