Right to counsel
New Jersey
,
Legislation
, Abuse/Neglect/Dependency - Children
A child in an abuse/neglect proceeding is entitled to a “law guardian” protect his/her interests and express his/her wishes to the court. N. J. Stat. Ann. § 9:6-8.23.
In addition, in the preliminary stages of kinship legal guardianship matters where legal representation is being provided by the Public Defender either through its law guardian program or its office of parental representation, N.J. Stat. Ann. § 30:4C-85(2) provides that an indigent child shall be afforded the same right to legal counsel as in actions under Title 9 and pursuant to N. J. Stat. Ann. § 30:4C-15.4.
Appointment of Counsel: Yes
Qualified: No
