CT HB05185

Allows parties to file petitions in probate court for findings to support special immigrant juvenile status applications under federal immigration law (8 USC 1101(a)(27)(J)) during or after guardianship proceedings.

Requires courts to make written findings on five specific factors: minor's age and marital status, court dependency, viability of reunification with parents, and whether return to child's country of nationality is not in the child's best interests.

Expands the definition of "minor child" to include unmarried persons under age 21 who are dependent on a caregiver, have consented to guardianship after turning 18, and have filed for special immigrant juvenile status findings.

Requires probate courts to provide notice of hearings by first class mail to relevant parties and permits hearings on special immigrant status findings to be held concurrently with underlying guardianship petitions.

Establishes rebuttable presumption that appointment of a grandparent or blood-related relative as guardian is in the child's best interests.