[sherry234]

Hi, we have a 4 month old fs had him since birth, dhr isn't telling us a whole lot about what is going on with court postponements, missed visits, long term goal. I know who the GAL is found out by myself without going to dhr because I don't think they like us contacting GAL, I have e-mail info for GAL from phonebook. Should I contact GAL by e-mail? What do I say, Hi I am baby's foster mom? I would also like to let him know of all mom's missed visits that I don't know if he knows about, but don't want to sound like a tattletale. Mom & dad have 4 other kids but tpr on all others. Do you think dhr will get mad if I contact GAL? We have had previous problems with dhr and they are not too happy with us right now.
Thanks
smith316

[Withay]

I think I would be inclined to tread lightly where dhr is concerned at this point.

Does your county have an online site where you can find out which cases are being heard in juvenile court each day? If so, I would recommend watching that site and when you see your fs case come up go to court. You have every right to be there.

If not, I would try to talk with fs cw and explain that you would like to be notified of what is going on so that you can better help him. This is especially important if the case is heading towards ru.

[carlychan]

I would contact the GAL but only to introduce myself. The GAL should get the missed visit report from the SW. Unless the SW is totally not doing his/her job. I would just let them know who you are and tell them you are available to answer questions or a visit. I wouldn't come right out and "tattle."

Now, that being said I have emailed certain things to the GAL that the SW didn't have first hand knowledge of. I told her things that birthmom told me or things I witnessed with the family. I was very "matter of fact" about it though. Not at all judgemental.

I hope that helps

[mamachell]

I agree with Carlychan, just email to introduce yourself (at least the first time). Make sure the GAL has all of your contact info, let them know you are available if they have any questions, etc. Then maybe you can send updates now and then about the progress of your fc. Also, sometimes there are some subtle ways to get your info across about visits etc. without sounding harsh or judgmental. Also, if you get in a situation where your fc isn't getting services they need and the cw isn't helping, the GAL can be a big help here. I had to do this for some medical services my fd needed.