Bill > AB373

This bill amends existing California law regarding dependency proceedings, specifically focusing on legal representation for nonminor dependents. Currently, when counsel is appointed to represent a nonminor dependent, they are required to advocate for the protection and safety of the individual, and they are instructed not to represent the nonminor dependent's wishes if those wishes conflict with their protection or safety. The bill would remove these two key restrictions, essentially allowing counsel to more fully represent the nonminor dependent's expressed wishes without being required to prioritize their protection or safety. This change gives nonminor dependents (individuals who are no longer minors but are still involved in the dependency court system) more autonomy in legal proceedings, allowing their appointed counsel to more directly represent their stated desires rather than making independent determinations about what is best for them. The bill maintains other existing provisions about counsel appointment, such as the requirement that counsel be a member of the State Bar and have appropriate training and manageable caseloads.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB373