Right to counsel

Mo. Ann. Stat. § 211.211(1) states, "A child is entitled to be represented by ... a guardian ad litem in all proceedings under subdivision (1) [abuse/neglect proceedings] of subsection 1 of section 211.031."  Mo. Ann. Stat. § 210.160 similarly specifies that “In every case involving an abused or neglected child which results in a judicial proceeding, the judge shall appoint a guardian ad litem to appear for and represent...[a] child who is the subject of [abuse and neglect] proceedings”, and a Supreme Court rule clarifies that “When appointing a guardian ad litem for a child, the court shall only appoint a lawyer licensed by the Supreme Court who has completed the training required by these standards.”  Mo. Sup. Ct., Standards with Comments for Guardians Ad Litem in Missouri, Standard 1.0.