SB5761 establishes a phased schedule for court-appointed attorneys for children in dependency and termination proceedings in Washington.

SB5761 amends existing law to create a phased schedule for the appointment of attorneys for children in dependency and termination proceedings. The schedule, managed by the statewide children's legal representation program, will phase in over 11 years, starting with three counties in 2022 and expanding to 36 counties by 2032. The court must appoint an attorney for children in dependency proceedings, prioritizing those under eight years old and ensuring representation upon the filing of a termination petition.

SB5761 establishes a phased schedule for court-appointed attorneys for children in dependency and termination proceedings in Washington.

SB5761 amends existing law to create a phased schedule for the appointment of attorneys for children in dependency and termination proceedings. The schedule, managed by the statewide children's legal representation program, will phase in over 11 years, starting with three counties in 2022 and expanding to 36 counties by 2032. The court must appoint an attorney for children in dependency proceedings, prioritizing those under eight years old and ensuring representation upon the filing of a termination petition.