MS HB772

Youth court judges may now appoint counsel to represent indigent parents or guardians in abuse, neglect, and termination of parental rights proceedings.

Attorneys appointed to represent parents or guardians must complete annual training approved by the Office of State Public Defender and the Mississippi Commission on Continuing Legal Education.

Attorneys failing to complete required annual training within six months of appointment shall be disqualified and immediately replaced by the youth court.

The State Defender is authorized to provide representation to indigent parents or guardians in youth court proceedings and appeals, including through staff or contract counsel arrangements.

The act takes effect July 1, 2016.