Guardians ad Litem in the New Hampshire Court System: A Pilot Program

In 2011, the New Hampshire legislature eliminated funding for Guardian ad Litem (GAL) services for indigent families in divorce and parenting cases, creating a two-tiered system where only those who could afford GAL services had access to them. Based on extensive interviews with key stakeholders, including GALs, judges, legislators, and experts from relevant states, as well as data analysis and comparative research, this report outlines findings and recommendations surrounding the reinstatement of the GAL fund through a pilot program in four New Hampshire courts.

Our research reveals several critical issues affecting the present GAL system in New Hampshire: (1) inadequate training and certification processes; (2) compensation challenges that have improved with recent rate increases but still create barriers; (3) a significant decrease in the number of GALs; and (4) an inequitable distribution of services across caseloads. Insights from Massachusetts, Vermont, Minnesota, and Maine reveal different models that could inform New Hampshire's approach, including Massachusetts' structured training and certification program and Maine's focus on settlement and mediation skills for GALs.

Recommendations that emerge from this research address immediate considerations for the design of the pilot program as well as longer term system reforms. These include: establishing a standardized, accessible training program; creating a liaison position between GALs and the court system; implementing regular communication channels between stakeholders; and developing clear metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of GAL