HB1144
HB1144: This bill would amend § 16.1-252 (titled “Preliminary removal order; hearing”) to specify that–in addition to informing the parent of their right to counsel–the court shall appoint counsel to represent an indigent parent who has completed a financial statement to such effect, unless the parent waives their right to representation or has otherwise obtained counsel. Also provides that any order related to the emergency removal of a child shall contain a notice about the parties’ right to counsel and that the notice of the removal hearing shall inform the parties of their RTC. Finally, amends § 16.1-266 to change notice about the RTC for parents in abuse/neglect matters – currently, parents must be notified of “[their] right to counsel prior to the adjudicatory hearing of an [abuse/neglect] petition…” The bill would require that parents receive notice of the right to counsel prior to the “preliminary” hearing.
Last action (on 02/13/2024): Left in Courts of Justice
