KY HB915

Parents in involuntary termination of parental rights cases gain the right to request a jury trial, where jurors must take an oath to keep proceedings confidential or face contempt of court penalties including fines or imprisonment

Juries in these cases make findings of fact and recommendations to the court, while judges retain authority to enter final judgment

Hearings for termination of parental rights in Circuit Court remain private, with courts required to make findings of fact and conclusions of law when conducting bench trials

Guardian ad litem fees for representing the child's best interests are capped at $500, paid by the Finance and Administration Cabinet when the cabinet is the proposed custodian

Indigent parents are entitled to appointed counsel under KRS Chapter 31, with attorney fees capped at $500 and paid by the Finance and Administration Cabinet