MS HB1443

Authorizes courts to raise conflicts of interest in guardian ad litem appointments in youth court proceedings, requiring the court to make a finding on any conflict raised by parties or the court itself.

If a conflict is found, the court retains the guardian ad litem to represent the child's best interests and appoints an attorney to represent the child's stated preferences as required by youth court rules.

Establishes a reasonable fee cap of $1,200 per matter for guardians ad litem appointed for children in Department of Child Protection Services custody in termination of parental rights proceedings.

Requires guardians ad litem to submit detailed bills for services and court certification of reasonable fees within 25 days after termination of parental rights hearings.

Effective date: July 1, 2025.