The proposed bill, if enacted, would establish the Child and Family Representation Program within the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) to ensure uniform legal representation for juveniles, parents, and guardians in juvenile court proceedings. This new program would require the Supreme Court to employ necessary personnel, including a compliance chief, and would enhance legal representation through various measures such as assessing training availability, recommending practice standards, auditing compliance, and filing ethical complaints against attorneys. Additionally, the program would foster partnerships with relevant stakeholders to improve legal representation quality and recommend fair compensation rates for attorneys.

The bill also includes an appropriation of $200,000 and one full-time equivalent (FTE) position from the state General Fund for fiscal year 2025-2026 to support the program's implementation. Furthermore, it mandates annual reporting to legislative leaders on the program's effectiveness and requires a review of the program's outcomes every five years starting in 2030 to determine its continuation. The existing statutes would remain unchanged, while the new provisions would be inserted to enhance the legal framework surrounding juvenile representation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 12-102.05
House Engrossed Version: 12-102.05