Bill > SB151

This bill directs the director of the state public defender's office to establish specialized trial units for family defense and children's representation in legal proceedings. Specifically, the bill requires the director to create two organizational units to provide legal counsel to parents, guardians, and legal custodians in child abuse and neglect cases, each with a managing attorney. Additionally, the bill mandates the establishment of another organizational trial unit dedicated to providing legal representation to children in these proceedings. The bill emphasizes the importance of high-quality, specialized legal representation by outlining detailed standards for attorneys representing children, including requirements for communication, case preparation, and ensuring the child's meaningful participation in legal proceedings. The director is also instructed to collaborate with the Department of Public Health and Human Services to maximize federal funding resources and to limit reliance on contract attorneys. To implement these changes, the bill provides for the creation of 21 new staff positions, with 10 positions to be added in the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, and the remaining 11 positions in the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and does not impact legal rights or proceedings that began before its effective date.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0466