In many counties in Massachusetts an ARC attorney can be appointed to represent the child’s voice. It is a pro bono program ( there is no costs to the parties). The ARC attorney acts as the child’s voice in court. This is not available in DCF C&P cases( child counsel may be appointed through CPCS) and is different from a GAL.

It usually needs to be requested by motion and is not allowed always due to the sometimes limited resources for the pro bono panel of attorneys. It can be very helpful especially if a child is older and able to articulate his or her desires about where to live or contact with a parent.