Bill > A08271

This bill amends the New York Family Court Act to expand and clarify the right to counsel in certain family court proceedings. Specifically, the bill ensures that parties in proceedings related to child support violations, paternity/parentage establishment, and other family court matters have the right to legal representation. Under the new provisions, all parties in contempt proceedings, paternity/parentage establishment cases, and child support enforcement actions will have the right to counsel, including the right to appointed counsel if they are financially unable to afford a lawyer. For minors involved in these proceedings, the bill guarantees the right to an attorney for the child under existing provisions. The bill also updates language in various sections of the Family Court Act to reflect these expanded legal representation rights, ensuring that summons and notices inform parties about their right to counsel. By broadening access to legal representation, the bill aims to protect the legal interests of individuals involved in complex family court proceedings, particularly those who might not otherwise be able to afford an attorney.

Budget and Finance, Education, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8271