The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to juvenile court proceedings by introducing new provisions that grant parties involved in permanency determination actions the right to request a change of judge both for cause and without cause. Specifically, it would allow a party to request a change of judge for cause based on specific grounds, such as the judge's prior engagement as counsel, interest in the matter, or relationship to either party. The bill outlines the procedures for filing such requests, including the requirement for an affidavit detailing the grounds for the change and the necessity to notify all parties involved.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that each party is entitled to one request for a change of judge without cause, which can be made either in open court or through a written notice. It establishes that a party waives the right to a change of judge if they participate in contested proceedings before that judge, and it clarifies the implications of remand by an appellate court regarding the right to request a change of judge. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the fairness and impartiality of juvenile court proceedings by providing clearer guidelines for changing judges.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-235.01
House Engrossed Version: 8-865
Chaptered Version: 8-865