H.B. No. 3382 amends the Family Code to enhance the responsibilities of court-appointed guardians ad litem, attorneys ad litem, and amicus attorneys in cases affecting the parent-child relationship. Key changes include a requirement for guardians ad litem to interview the child and relevant parties within specified timeframes, specifically within seven business days for initial interviews and within 30 business days for additional interviews. The bill also mandates that guardians and attorneys ad litem assess the child's educational needs and medical care, and seek to identify potential caregivers in the child's community. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of developmentally appropriate communication with children and requires attorneys to meet with parents before court hearings.

Additional provisions include the stipulation that guardians ad litem and attorneys ad litem must be trained in child advocacy or possess equivalent experience. The bill also establishes a timeline for the appointment of these representatives, ensuring they are appointed no later than 72 hours before adversarial hearings. The changes aim to improve the representation of children's interests in legal proceedings and ensure that their voices are heard in matters that significantly impact their lives. The law will apply to suits filed on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 107.002, Family Code 107.003, Family Code 107.008, Family Code 107.011, Family Code 107.012, Family Code 107.0131 (Family Code 107)
House Committee Report: Family Code 107.002, Family Code 107.003, Family Code 107.011, Family Code 107.012, Family Code 107.0131 (Family Code 107)