This bill amends RCW 13.34.212 to establish a structured schedule for the court appointment of attorneys for children involved in dependency and termination proceedings. It mandates that the court appoint an attorney for every child in a dependency proceeding, with specific timelines based on the child's age. For children under eight, attorneys must be appointed upon the filing of a termination petition, while for those aged eight to 17, appointments are required at or before the commencement of the shelter care hearing. The bill also introduces a phased implementation plan over an 11-year period, ensuring that no more than 1,250 cases are added each fiscal year, with a focus on counties lacking current attorney appointment practices or facing significant racial disparities.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the statewide children's legal representation program, which will oversee the recruitment, training, and oversight of attorneys to ensure compliance with professional standards. It emphasizes the importance of continuity of counsel for children already represented at county expense when the new program is implemented. A new provision states that if specific funding for the act is not provided by June 30, 2025, the act will become null and void.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 13.34.212
Bill as Passed Legislature: 13.34.212
Session Law: 13.34.212