California AB373 amends dependency proceedings to clarify the role and responsibilities of counsel for children.

California AB373 amends Section 317 of the Welfare and Institutions Code to clarify the role and responsibilities of counsel in dependency proceedings. The bill mandates that counsel appointed for a child or nonminor dependent must advocate for the child's protection, safety, and physical and emotional well-being. It also specifies that counsel may be a district attorney, public defender, or other member of the State Bar, provided they do not represent conflicting interests.

California AB373 amends dependency proceedings to clarify the role and responsibilities of counsel for children.

California AB373 amends Section 317 of the Welfare and Institutions Code to clarify the role and responsibilities of counsel in dependency proceedings. The bill mandates that counsel appointed for a child or nonminor dependent must advocate for the child's protection, safety, and physical and emotional well-being. It also specifies that counsel may be a district attorney, public defender, or other member of the State Bar, provided they do not represent conflicting interests.