Texas HB701 mandates the appointment of an attorney ad litem or amicus attorney in contested divorce cases involving children under 12.

Texas HB701 amends the Family Code to mandate the appointment of an attorney ad litem or amicus attorney in divorce cases where the possession of a child under 12 years of age is contested and deviates from the standard possession order. This attorney will assist the court in determining the best interest of the child. The act takes effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote from all members elected to each house, otherwise it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Texas HB701 mandates the appointment of an attorney ad litem or amicus attorney in contested divorce cases involving children under 12.

Texas HB701 amends the Family Code to mandate the appointment of an attorney ad litem or amicus attorney in divorce cases where the possession of a child under 12 years of age is contested and deviates from the standard possession order. This attorney will assist the court in determining the best interest of the child. The act takes effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote from all members elected to each house, otherwise it will take effect on September 1, 2025.