About the Project
In 2025, Legal Aid of West Virginia (LAWV) received a grant to launch the Voices for Kids project, a statewide initiative designed to support children involved in abuse and neglect cases. West Virginia currently faces a significant shortage of attorneys available to serve as guardians ad litem, creating challenges for courts and vulnerable children who need representation.

What Is a Guardian Ad Litem?
According to the West Virginia Judiciary, a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is an attorney appointed by a judge to represent the best interests of a child or other vulnerable individual. GALs investigate the facts, gather information, and make recommendations to help judges make informed decisions.

What We Do
West Virginia has the highest rate of children in foster care per capita in the United States, with approximately 19.4 per 1,000 children as of 2023. This rate is nearly four times the national average. Courts across the state struggle to find enough guardians ad litem for children in abuse and neglect cases. The Voices for Kids project provides dedicated attorney positions within LAWV to help address this shortage. Staff in these roles receive specialized training and commit a portion of their time to serving as GALs for children involved in Abuse and Neglect cases in circuit courts across the state.
In addition to courtroom advocacy, Voices for Kids works to prevent abuse and neglect before it occurs. The project’s staff helps families overcome legal challenges related to housing, public benefits, custody arrangements, domestic violence, and other issues that can put children at risk. By resolving these problems early, the project supports safer and more stable home environments for West Virginia children.
Currently, Voices for Kids includes 13 staff members—11 attorneys and 2 paralegals.
Please visit our application page to get help from Voices for Kids.