H.B. No. 2530 amends the Texas Family Code to clarify the distinct roles and responsibilities of amicus attorneys and attorneys ad litem in cases affecting the parent-child relationship. The bill defines an "amicus attorney" as one appointed by the court to assist in protecting a child's best interests, rather than representing the child directly. It introduces new provisions regarding the appointment of amicus attorneys, including qualifications, compensation, and conflict of interest disclosures. The bill mandates that courts consider the financial implications of appointing an amicus attorney and ensures they are compensated for their services, while also establishing minimum qualifications such as experience in child advocacy and continuing legal education.

Additionally, the bill outlines the powers and limitations of amicus attorneys, requiring them to advocate for the child's best interests and conduct interviews with relevant parties, while prohibiting them from offering opinions on conservatorship or engaging in ex parte communications with the court. It specifies that an amicus attorney must be removed if they disclose certain conflicts of interest unless the court finds otherwise after a hearing. The bill repeals Section 107.005 of the Family Code and states that the changes will apply only to suits filed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 107.001, Family Code 107.003, Family Code 107.007, Family Code 107.009, Family Code 107.005 (Family Code 107)
House Committee Report: Family Code 107.001, Family Code 107.003, Family Code 107.007, Family Code 107.009, Family Code 107.005 (Family Code 107)
Engrossed: Family Code 107.001, Family Code 107.003, Family Code 107.007, Family Code 107.009, Family Code 107.005 (Family Code 107)
Senate Committee Report: Family Code 107.001, Family Code 107.003, Family Code 107.007, Family Code 107.009, Family Code 107.005 (Family Code 107)
Enrolled: Family Code 107.001, Family Code 107.003, Family Code 107.007, Family Code 107.009, Family Code 107.005 (Family Code 107)