TX HB2530

Expands the definition of "amicus attorney" in Texas Family Code to explicitly include acting as a witness or making recommendations to the court when assisting in protecting a child's best interests

Establishes new minimum qualifications for amicus attorneys, requiring at least two years of legal practice, child advocacy training, and completion of four hours of continuing legal education in family violence dynamics, child interviewing techniques, and alternative dispute resolution within the preceding two years

Creates comprehensive conflict of interest and disclosure requirements for amicus attorneys, mandating disclosure of any conflicts, prior knowledge of parties, or pecuniary/fiduciary relationships with attorneys or the court before and during appointment

Defines specific powers and duties for amicus attorneys, including interviewing children age four and older, investigating case facts, reviewing records, and participating in litigation, while prohibiting them from offering opinions on conservatorship, engaging in ex parte communications with the court, or testifying except in limited circumstances

Provides civil immunity for amicus attorneys and attorneys ad litem for actions taken in their appointed capacity, except for conduct involving conscious indifference, bad faith, malice, or gross negligence; takes effect September 1, 2025