GALLORE Guardian ad Litem Service Standards

At GALLORE, every Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is committed to ensuring that the child’s voice and welfare are at the centre of all decisions made in the family law system. These Service Standards define the principles, values, and practices that guide our work and demonstrate our unwavering dedication to children, families, and the courts.

1. Paramount Welfare of the Child

• The child’s best interests are the primary consideration in every action.

• All decisions are tailored to the child’s age, stage of development, and unique needs.

• We consider the whole child — physical, emotional, educational, and social wellbeing.

2. Listening to Children’s Voices

• Children are engaged directly in ways appropriate to their age and understanding.

• We use clear language and creative methods so children feel heard and understood.

• Children’s wishes are accurately represented in reports, supported by their own words, drawings, or letters.

3. Professional Independence

• GALs act with complete independence from all parties.

• When the child’s wishes differ from our professional judgement, both are reported transparently with clear reasoning.

• Every assessment is impartial and evidence-based.

4. Collaborative and Respectful Practice

• We engage constructively with parents, carers, professionals, and the court.

• All dialogue is respectful and inclusive, recognising diverse perspectives.

• We participate fully in hearings, care planning, and review meetings to ensure the child’s best interests are always represented.

5. Family, Community, and Culture

• Children are understood within their family and community context.

• Cultural identity, language, and heritage are respected and safeguarded.

• Care planning always considers the child’s wider connections and sense of belonging.

6. Evidence-Based Reporting

• GAL reports are thorough, balanced, and clearly reasoned.

• Findings are based on direct contact with the child and a wide range of sources.

• We highlight the impact of delay and recommend timely solutions to minimise stress for the child.

7. Ethical and Expert Practice

• GALs uphold the highest ethical standards of integrity, transparency, and professionalism.

• Each GAL has substantial experience (10+ years working with vulnerable children and families).

• Ongoing professional development and clinical supervision are core to our practice.

8. Equality and Inclusion

• We actively challenge discrimination and bias.

• Practice is sensitive to the diverse backgrounds of children and families, including race, gender, religion, disability, and family status.

• Expert consultation is sought where additional cultural or linguistic insight is needed.

9. Timely and Flexible Enquiries

• Enquiries are structured, goal-oriented, and efficient, avoiding unnecessary delay.

• Plans are regularly updated to ensure focus and responsiveness.

• Our priority is always outcomes that improve the child’s wellbeing.

10. Accountability and Quality Assurance

• GALs are accountable to the court for their assessments and recommendations.

• Quality is ensured through audits, reflective supervision, and adherence to best practice.

• We remain informed by the latest research and standards in child protection and welfare.

At GALLORE, these standards are more than principles — they are lived practices.
They ensure that every child we represent is heard, respected, and supported in a way that promotes healing, stability, and long-term wellbeing.

These Service Standards are underpinned by our full Policies & Compliance Framework, which details our legal, ethical, and data protection responsibilities.