MS SB2120

Allows chancery courts to proceed with child abuse charges that first arise during pending custody disputes between parents without invoking youth court authority, while maintaining confidentiality under Uniform Rules of Youth Court Practice.

Permits chancery court proceedings on abuse charges raised for the first time in custody cases to be heard as part of the custody determination without converting the proceeding to a youth court action.

Requires records involving children to be disclosed to chancery court guardians ad litem appointed to the child, adding this category to those authorized to access confidential youth court records.

Grants chancery court guardians ad litem the same inspection and copying rights to youth court records as parents, guardians, and children already possess.

Effective date: July 1, 2024.