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Central Missouri Child Advocacy Law Center
Missouri Statutes and Case Law Concerning GALs and CASAs

Recent Missouri Case Law - notes and some full-text

Topical Index of Missouri Case Law and Statutes - Under Construction

The Legal Role of the Guardian Ad Litem in Missouri

Statute References - Under Construction

  • Missouri Child Welfare Policy - Section 1.092 RSMo clearly states that the child welfare policy of the State of Missouri is the best interest of the child.
  • Juvenile Abuse/Neglect Cases - The Court is required to appoint a GAL for children in juvenile cases alleging abuse and/or neglect of the child (210.160 RSMo; this same statute requires appointment of a GAL in domestic, adoption, and termination of parental rights cases involving allegations of abuse and/or neglect). "Abuse" and "Neglect" are defined at 210.110 RSMo.
  • Domestic Cases - The Court is required to appoint a GAL for children in domestic cases (divorces and modifications) in which there are allegations of abuse and/or neglect of the child, and may appoint a GAL whenever it appears to be in the child's best interest. (452.423 RSMo.)
  • Termination of Parental Rights - appointment of a GAL is required by 211.462 RSMo.
  • Paternity - appointment of a GAL is required by 210.830 RSMo, but only if there are allegations of abuse or neglect of the child, or if the child is named as a defendant, or if the court finds that the interests of the child are not adequately protected.
  • Adoption - appointment of a GAL is required in every case by 453.025 RSMo.

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