Under the Aegis: What Judges Can Expect When Working With a TIGALA Guardian ad Litem

Discover how TIGALA’s Guardians ad Litem uphold high standards of advocacy and collaboration in court, as explained by Director Claire Quinn.

When a judge appoints a Guardian ad Litem from TIGALA, they can expect more than just a report; they'll receive a dedicated advocate for the child, committed to delivering high standards of representation. In this latest instalment of our Under the Aegis series, Claire Quinn, Director at TIGALA, outlines what judges can expect when working with a TIGALA Guardian, shedding light on our agency's approach to child advocacy and the standards we work to uphold.

Claire highlights that when a judge appoints a TIGALA Guardian ad Litem, they “can expect a high standard of advocacy for the child before the court.” This commitment is ingrained in TIGALA's Practice Principles, guiding Guardians to prioritise the child's welfare and provide a clear, professional view on their best interests.

We would always strive to work collaboratively in the first instance with all the stakeholders in the child's life, that's both professional and family members.

The detailed court reports prepared by our Guardians include comprehensive assessments and insights into the child’s wishes and feelings, ensuring that the court has a holistic understanding of the child's situation.

While Guardians strive to advocate for the child in a collaborative manner, they remain prepared to seek court direction as needed. Claire explains that while the goal is always to work closely with parents, the Child and Family Agency (Tusla), and other stakeholders, situations may arise where court intervention is required to ensure the child’s needs are fully addressed.

At TIGALA, we also recognise that the role of a Guardian ad Litem goes beyond simply submitting reports; in addition to being available to the children we advocate for, it involves active participation in significant meetings, like child-in-care reviews, and ongoing professional development so we can continue to ensure the child is receiving the highest level of advocacy possible. This approach ensures that advocacy for the child's welfare continues outside of the courtroom, helping to shape care plans and decisions that impact the child's life for the better.

Since being founded in 2014, TIGALA has been dedicated to making a positive impact on children's circumstances. With over a thousand children supported to date, the agency continues to uphold its commitment to child advocacy. Each case handled by a TIGALA Guardian ad Litem is approached with the utmost dedication, ensuring that the child's voice is heard and their best interests are represented in court.