The "Pocket Registry" Problem: When Advertising Outpaces Accountability

Parent Resources · By Gale McArthur · 2026-03-30 · 5 min read

A dangerous gap has emerged where professionals continue to advertise GAL services even when they are not on the official county registry. Here's how to verify — and how to report.

In Washington State, being a "GAL" isn't just a title you can claim — it is a status that must be earned and maintained every single year. Under RCW 26.12.177, a professional must be on an active, county-approved registry to accept appointments.

However, a dangerous gap has emerged where professionals continue to advertise GAL services even when they are not on the official list.

The Case of the "Oversight" Defense

Recent documents involving King County Superior Court highlight exactly how this happens. In a 2026 inquiry (ODC File No. 26-00090), it was revealed that a professional operated without being on the 2024 or 2025 Title 26 Registry. The court later referred to this as an "oversight" due to staffing challenges.

The Reality: For a parent, an "oversight" isn't just a clerical error — it is a violation of the law that can invalidate a child's entire investigation.

How to Verify a GAL Today

Before you sign an order or pay a retainer, you must verify their status. Do not rely on their website or email signature.

• Check the County Registry: Each county (King, Pierce, Snohomish, etc.) maintains its own list. Contact the King County GAL Program Registry or email SCGAL@kingcounty.gov directly.
• Verify Training: Ask for their most recent AOC-approved training certificate. Check the WA Courts GAL Portal for current requirements.
• Cross-Check the Bar: If they are an attorney, verify their status on the WSBA Lawyer Directory.

How to File a Disciplinary Report

If you find a professional is advertising as a GAL but is not on the registry, you have three primary avenues for accountability:

• 1. File a Grievance with the WSBA — If the professional is a licensed attorney, advertising services they are not eligible to perform may violate the Rules of Professional Conduct. Use the WSBA Online Grievance Form to submit. Review the Grievance FAQ for guidance.
• 2. File a Report with the Office of Disciplinary Counsel (ODC) — The ODC investigates grievances against legal professionals. You can provide evidence of their non-registry status and any harm caused to your case.
• 3. Submit to the Gale McArthur Independent Audit — If you want our team to investigate the registry status and provide a formal audit of a GAL's compliance with RCW 26.12, use our internal portal.

Key Legal References

• RCW 26.12.175 — GAL Appointment & Role
• RCW 26.12.177 — Training & Registry Requirements
• RCW 11.88.090 — Guardianship GAL
• RCW 2.56.030 — AOC Training Duties
• King County Local GAL Rules (LGALR 5)

The Bottom Line

The court system may call it an "oversight," but for families, it is a matter of safety and law. If they aren't on the registry, they aren't a GAL. Period.