MS HB1335

Removes the requirement that courts appoint an attorney for unrepresented minor children in involuntary termination of parental rights proceedings, while maintaining the guardian ad litem requirement.

Retains the requirement that children age twelve and older must be represented by counsel throughout the proceedings.

Keeps the guardian ad litem appointment to protect the child's best interest, with court discretion to waive this requirement when a parent executes a written voluntary release.

Effective date is July 1, 2025.