HI SB2072

Requires family court to appoint counsel to indigent parents upon filing of a petition for custody or family supervision under Chapter 587A (Child Protective Act).

Court must provide appointed counsel by the first hearing attended by the parent, unless the parent knowingly and voluntarily waives the right to counsel on the record.

Allows parents who were represented by private counsel but are now indigent and no longer represented to receive court-appointed counsel.

Prohibits court from entering rulings or orders that prejudice the parent's rights until counsel appears or the parent waives counsel on the record; court must grant continuance if counsel appointed fewer than three days before hearing.

Takes effect upon approval.