DE HB86

Establishes right to counsel for indigent parents in DSCYF custody proceedings under Chapter 25 of Title 13, with notice to parents of this right included in hearing notices.

Requires courts to appoint attorneys for indigent parents at all stages of proceedings, including appeals to the Delaware Supreme Court and reinstatement of parental rights proceedings.

Permits courts to refer parents to contracted legal services entities, the Office of Defense Services, or private bar attorneys for indigency determination and counsel appointment, with referrals required contemporaneously with emergency custody orders.

Creates § 4602A to authorize the Office of Defense Services to represent indigent parents when requested by the parent or ordered by the court, with indigency determination made by the Office of Defense Services.

Becomes effective 6 months after enactment into law.