Iowa adds right to counsel for parents, children in guardianship cases

In 2019, Iowa enacted the Iowa Minor Guardianship Proceedings Act.  Iowa Code § 232D.303 specifies:

1. Upon the filing of a petition for appointment of a guardian pursuant to section 232D.301, the court shall appoint an attorney for the minor, if the court determines that the interests of the minor are or may be inadequately represented.

2. An attorney representing the minor shall advocate for the wishes of the minor to the extent that those wishes are reasonably ascertainable and advocate for best interest of the minor if the wishes of the minor are not reasonably ascertainable.

For parents, Iowa Code § 232D.304 specifies:

Upon the filing of a petition for appointment of a guardian, the court shall appoint an attorney for the parent identified in the petition if all the following are true:

1. The parent objects to the appointment of a guardian for the minor.

2. The parent requests appointment of an attorney and the court determines that the parent is unable to pay for an attorney in accordance with section 232D.505.