Bill > HB338

This bill amends several chapters of Missouri Revised Statutes by adding new sections that establish an explicit ethical obligation for guardians ad litem (GALs) in different types of legal proceedings involving children. Specifically, the bill requires GALs appointed to children in child welfare proceedings, juvenile justice cases, custody and visitation disputes, and adoption proceedings to have a formal ethical duty to the child during the course of the legal proceeding. A guardian ad litem is a court-appointed advocate who represents the best interests of a child in legal matters, typically when the child is involved in cases such as abuse, neglect, custody disputes, or adoption. By codifying this ethical obligation, the bill aims to ensure that GALs prioritize the child's interests and well-being throughout the legal process, potentially providing additional legal and professional accountability for these court-appointed representatives.

Health and Social Services

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB338&year=2025&code=R