The Law

NRS 432B.500  Appointment of guardian ad litem after filing of petition.

      1.  After a petition is filed that a child is in need of protection pursuant to NRS 432B.490, the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem for the child. The person so appointed:

      (a) Must meet the requirements of NRS 432B.505 or, if such a person is not available, a representative of an agency which provides child welfare services, a juvenile probation officer, an officer of the court or another volunteer.

      (b) Must not be a parent or other person responsible for the child’s welfare.

      2.  No compensation may be allowed a person serving as a guardian ad litem pursuant to this section.

      3.  A guardian ad litem appointed pursuant to this section shall:

      (a) Represent and protect the best interests of the child until excused by the court;

      (b) Thoroughly research and ascertain the relevant facts of each case for which he is appointed, and ensure that the court receives an independent, objective account of those facts;

      (c) Meet with the child wherever the child is placed as often as is necessary to determine that the child is safe and to ascertain the best interests of the child;

      (d) Explain to the child the role of the guardian ad litem and, when appropriate, the nature and purpose of each proceeding in his case;

      (e) Participate in the development and negotiation of any plans for and orders regarding the child, and monitor the implementation of those plans and orders to determine whether services are being provided in an appropriate and timely manner;

      (f) Appear at all proceedings regarding the child;

      (g) Inform the court of the desires of the child, but exercise his independent judgment regarding the best interests of the child;

      (h) Present recommendations to the court and provide reasons in support of those recommendations;

      (i) Request the court to enter orders that are clear, specific and, when appropriate, include periods for compliance;

      (j) Review the progress of each case for which he is appointed, and advocate for the expedient completion of the case; and

      (k) Perform such other duties as the court orders.

      (Added to NRS by 1985, 1379; A 1999, 2039; 2001 Special Session, 48)