The proposed bill enacts the "Uniform Judicial Interview of Children Act," which establishes a framework for judicial interviews of children in civil proceedings related to custody, visitation, and other matters involving custodial responsibility. The bill defines key terms such as "child," "judicial officer," and "covered proceeding," and outlines the circumstances under which a judicial officer may conduct an interview. It specifies that only parties with a direct interest in the case, such as the child's attorney or guardian ad litem, may request an interview, and that the judicial officer must have training in interviewing children. The bill also emphasizes the importance of considering the child's best interests and expressed desires when deciding to conduct an interview.
Additionally, the bill mandates that an interview record be created and outlines the procedures for access to this record, including stipulations that may limit access. It ensures that the child's views are taken into account while also protecting the child from potential harm during the interview process. The act aims to promote uniformity in the application of these procedures across states that adopt it and will take effect on November 1, 2026.