HB2359
HB2359: Enacting the Uniform Guardianship, Conservatorship, and Other Protective Arrangements (UGCOPA) Act: As to adults in guardianship and conservatorship establishment matters, the court shall appoint counsel for unrepresented, regardless of the adult’s ability to pay. Also requires appointment of counsel for an adult “[i]mmediately upon filing of a petition for appointment of an emergency guardian”. The right to counsel also applies in removal proceedings where the adult is unrepresented and in termination and modification matters where the adult seeks the termination or modification.
The court shall appoint counsel for minors in guardianship matters if the minor is 12 years of age or older and requests counsel; the GAL recommends appointment; or the court determines that the minor needs representation. The court shall appoint counsel for a parent whose minor child is the subject of a guardianship case, if the court determines the parent needs representation.
Bill Status: Active
Last action (on 03/12/2025): Senate Committee Report recommending bill be passed by Committee on Judiciary
