Iowa HF953 mandates legal representation for children in foster care, appointing counsel or guardians ad litem based on age and conflict of interest.

Iowa HF953 establishes legal representation requirements for children in foster care. The bill mandates that courts appoint counsel for children aged ten or older and both counsel and a guardian ad litem for children under ten. If a conflict of interest exists between the child and their parent or guardian, the court must appoint separate counsel. The bill also allows the same person to serve as both counsel and guardian ad litem for children under ten, unless the court finds it inadequate.

Iowa HF953 mandates legal representation for children in foster care, appointing counsel or guardians ad litem based on age and conflict of interest.

Iowa HF953 establishes legal representation requirements for children in foster care. The bill mandates that courts appoint counsel for children aged ten or older and both counsel and a guardian ad litem for children under ten. If a conflict of interest exists between the child and their parent or guardian, the court must appoint separate counsel. The bill also allows the same person to serve as both counsel and guardian ad litem for children under ten, unless the court finds it inadequate.