TITLE 16

JUVENILE PROCEEDINGS

CHAPTER 24

CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

16-2429.  Right to representation. (1) Every child has the right to counsel to represent him at all proceedings under this chapter and to obtain the advice of an attorney at any time regarding his status under this chapter, at his or his parents’ expense. When a child has not retained an attorney and is unable to do so, or the child and his parents are unable to afford one, and proceedings under this chapter have been initiated in court, the court shall appoint an attorney to represent him in court proceedings.

(2)  Every treatment facility shall establish a fair procedure for the assertion, resolution, and redress of grievances, and attempt to resolve problems and protect the rights of people treated by the facility. The child shall have the right to have a representative present at these proceedings, but not at public expense.

History:

[16-2429, added 1997, ch. 404, sec. 1, p. 1298.]