Wayne County court seeks more guardians ad litem

As divorce and custody cases involving children continue through Wayne County’s Domestic Relations Court, court officials say they need more guardians ad litem (GALs) — trained individuals tasked with investigating family situations and helping magistrates determine what is in the best interest of a child.

GALs are placed directly into some of the most emotionally difficult moments families face. In many cases, children are too young to fully understand the conflict unfolding around them, leaving the court dependent on GAL investigators to assess living situations, interview family members and provide detailed reports to the magistrates overseeing the case.

“These are families going through one of the hardest periods of their lives,” Wayne County Court Administrator Karl Kubb said. “The guardian ad litem’s role is to help the court understand the full picture of what is happening in the child’s life.”

According to Kubb, GALs are most commonly appointed in contested divorce and custody matters when parents cannot agree on issues involving children. The guardian may interview parents, children, teachers, therapists, grandparents and others connected to the child’s daily life. They may also visit homes and observe living environments before preparing a report for the court.

The reports are then used by Domestic Relations magistrates in custody and parenting-time decisions before final approval by a judge.

Kubb said the court currently has only a limited number of GALs available and is attempting to build a deeper list of qualified individuals willing to accept appointments.

Unlike traditional county jobs, GALs work on a case-by-case basis and are compensated through deposits paid by the parties involved. Kubb said the work often appeals to retired or semi-retired professionals with flexible schedules, particularly those with backgrounds in social work, education, counseling, therapy, case management, psychology or family services.

“You’re trying to help these families get to a place where they can move forward,” Kubb said. “Ultimately, it comes down to helping the court determine what is best for the child.”

The position also requires courtroom testimony and significant documentation.

Under Ohio Supreme Court Rule 48, new GALs must complete 12 hours of preservice education, including six hours of live instruction. Required training topics include child development, trauma, domestic violence, communication skills, interviewing children, assessing safety risks, family dynamics, substance abuse issues and legal procedures. Additional continuing education is required annually.

Kubb said the required instruction is available through the Ohio Judicial College, with most courses offered at no cost.

Individuals interested in serving as a GAL may visit www.wayneohio.org/employment-opportunities or contact Wayne County Court Administrator Karl Kubb at 330-287-7737.

Dan Starcher is the communications coordinator for Wayne County.