AZ HB2177

Allows parents in termination of parental rights proceedings to request a jury trial by filing a written request before or at the initial termination hearing under Arizona Revised Statutes sections 8-537 or 8-863.

Requires notice of the jury trial option be included in the notice of initial hearing prescribed by section 8-535.

Permits courts to consolidate multiple jury trial requests into one jury trial for all parents involved in the proceeding.

Establishes that jury trials must be commenced no later than 120 days after the initial termination hearing is completed.

Directs the administrative office of the courts to report by January 1, 2027, on jury trial requests, completions, outcomes, lengths, and feedback compared to bench trials in termination of parental rights cases.