This bill amends several sections of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to enhance the rights of juveniles in the juvenile justice system, particularly regarding their right to counsel. It mandates the appointment of counsel for juveniles in cases where a petition alleging jurisdiction is filed, regardless of the county's population size. The bill also requires juvenile courts to provide written materials explaining the right to counsel to juveniles and their guardians, ensuring that these materials are understandable and developed using best practices. Additionally, it modifies the provisions related to waivers of the right to counsel, stipulating that any waiver must be made in open court, recorded, and confirmed in writing by the juvenile.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that a juvenile's waiver of the right to counsel cannot be accepted unless it meets specific criteria, including being made intelligently and voluntarily, and that the juvenile has been provided with the necessary written materials. It also prohibits any individual other than the juvenile from waiving this right and outlines circumstances under which a juvenile's right to counsel cannot be waived, such as for those under fourteen years of age or during certain hearings. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal protections for juveniles in the justice system by ensuring they have access to legal representation and are fully informed of their rights.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43-272, 43-279, 43-3102