MODEL POLICIES FOR ATTORNEYS

REPRESENTING CHILDREN



House Bill 6086

Sponsor: Rep. Edward LaForge

Committee: Human Services and Children


Complete to 9-21-98



A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 6086 AS INTRODUCED 9-16-98


Currently, the Child Protection Law requires that, in each case in which judicial proceedings are necessary, the court must appoint legal counsel to represent a child's best interests. House Bill 6086 would amend the law to require that the Family Independence Agency (FIA) develop and distribute model policies regarding the roles of attorneys and guardians ad litem in representing children in cases filed under the provisions of Chapter XIIA of the Probate Code (MCL 712A.1 et al.), which regulates the family division of circuit court, and Section 427 of the Revised Probate Code (MCL 400.427), which concerns the procedures for appointing a guardian for a minor. Further, the FIA would have to use as a model for its policies the State Bar of Michigan's publication, "Guidelines for Advocates for Children in Michigan Courts."























Analyst: R. Young


This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.