AK HB80

Grants parties the right to demand a jury trial in cases involving termination of parental rights under Alaska child in need of aid proceedings.

Specifies that when adjudication and termination hearings are consolidated, jury trial rights apply only to the termination phase after the court has adjudicated the child is in need of aid.

Amends AS 47.10.088 to allow either the court or jury to make findings by clear and convincing evidence regarding grounds for termination and to consider factors relating to the child's best interests.

Modifies Alaska Child in Need of Aid Rules of Procedure Rules 18(b), 18(e), and 18(g) to implement jury trial procedures for termination hearings and require trials within six months of petition filing.

Applies to trials on petitions to terminate parental rights filed on or after the effective date of the Act.