Guardian Ad Litem Program

The Office for Justice Initiatives administers the NYC Housing Court Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) Program. This Program recruits, trains, and provides Housing Court judges with a pool of GALs whose goal is to safeguard the rights and prevent the eviction of some of New York City’s most vulnerable people. A Judge will often appoint a GAL when there is concern that a litigant is unable to advocate for themself due to mental illness. The pool of Housing Court GALs consists of attorneys and non-attorneys alike. In some cases GALs are compensated for their services and in other cases the GAL serves on a volunteer basis. In general, NYC GALs are entitled to defense and indemnification by the State of New York.

If you are interested in becoming a GAL, learn more about the application process.

If you are currently a GAL, learn more about the Program including information about payment procedures and resources.

If the Judge appointed a Guardian Ad Litem for you in your case, learn more about what this means.