CT HB06741

Repeals and replaces Section 46b-129a of the general statutes, effective October 1, 2017, governing child representation in abuse and neglect proceedings in Superior Court.

Grants counsel assigned to represent a child immediate access to Department of Social Services records, medical, mental health, substance abuse treatment, law enforcement, and educational records without requiring additional releases when the child's parent or guardian has been accused of abuse or neglect.

Requires child's counsel to be knowledgeable about representing children and act solely as the child's attorney, advocating for the child's wishes or best interests depending on the child's capacity to express preferences.

Allows the court to appoint a separate guardian ad litem if the child cannot adequately act in their own best interests, with the guardian ad litem performing an independent investigation and presenting information on the child's best interests at hearings.

Establishes that fees for counsel and guardian ad litem are paid by the office of Chief Public Defender, unless parents, guardian, or the child's estate are able to pay, in which case the court may assess reimbursement rates.