SRC-SLL H.B. 2526 75(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 2526
By: Williams (Ogden)
Jurisprudence
5-8-97
Engrossed


DIGEST 

The Family Code established both discretionary and mandatory duties of an
attorney ad litem appointed by the court to represent a child in a suit
affecting the parent-child relationship.  However, concern exists
regarding the quality of representation that a child, who is incapable of
evaluating the attorney ad litem's services, receives from the attorney ad
litem.  This bill will require an attorney ad litem to take certain
actions in cases affecting the parent-child relationship.  These actions
are currently at the discretion of the attorney ad litem.  This bill also
requires an attorney ad litem to interview all parties to the suit. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 2526 provides regulations regarding the duties of an
attorney ad litem in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 107.014, Family Code, to require, rather than
authorize, an attorney ad litem appointed under this subchapter to
represent a child to investigate to the extent the attorney ad litem
considers appropriate to determine the facts of the case and to obtain and
review all copies of all of the child's relevant medical, psychological,
and school records.  Requires an attorney ad litem appointed to represent
a child to interview all parties to the suit within a reasonable time
after the appointment.  Makes conforming changes. 

SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 1997.
  Makes application of this Act prospective.

SECTION 3. Emergency clause.