Whether you voluntarily go to court to provide information, are requested by the caseworker or GAL to appear, or are officially summoned by the court, being prepared is essential.

The Guardian ad litem (GAL) and caseworker are working for the child’s best interests and, in effect, may become your teammates in court. If you wish to speak in court, they can be helpful in preparing you for what to expect and helping you know the best time to request to speak.

By talking to the GAL and caseworker in advance, you can:

• verify what type of hearing is being held to decide whether or not the information you wish to present is relevant to this type of hearing;
• gain their support for your testimony. (As a courtesy, inform the child’s caseworker and the GAL that you intend to request to testify, instead of surprising him/her during the hearing.); and
• ask the GAL to inform the judge you would like to speak at the right point during the hearing.