SB 5903-S - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 3/11/05)

Provides that, subject to the availability of funds appropriated for this specific purpose, the office shall oversee and monitor dependency and termination legal representation for parents statewide. The goal shall be to enhance the quality of legal representation in dependency and termination hearings. To meet this goal, attorneys and agencies providing such representation shall comply with the following: (1) Meet maximum caseload requirements for dependency and termination cases, in accordance with standards published by the office of public defense;

(2) Implement enhanced defense attorney practice standards published by the office of public defense, including but not limited to those related to reasonable case preparation and the delivery of adequate client advice; and

(3) Use investigative and expert services in appropriate cases.