Bill > S1966

This bill clarifies a juvenile's right to have an attorney present during critical stages of court proceedings, defining these stages to include every court appearance, any interrogation or investigative activity by law enforcement after a complaint is filed, and the duration of any court-ordered disposition. It also specifies that a juvenile with mental capacity cannot waive their rights without consulting with their attorney and giving a parent or guardian an opportunity to consult, while a juvenile found to lack mental capacity cannot waive rights at all and will have a guardian ad litem appointed to make such decisions. Furthermore, the bill mandates that courts must hold a review hearing within 12 months of a juvenile being placed out-of-home, and at least every 12 months thereafter, to assess the juvenile's treatment, care, and the services provided by the placement agency, ensuring the placement remains appropriate and in the juvenile's best interest.