2009 Louisiana Children's Code :: CHC 1034 - Right to present evidence and examine witnesses

Art. 1034. Right to present evidence and examine witnesses

A. Among other rights expressly guaranteed by this Title or by due process of law, at the hearing the parent may introduce evidence, call witnesses, be heard on his own behalf, and cross-examine witnesses called by the petitioner or the child.

B. Among other rights expressly guaranteed by this Title or by due process of law, at the hearing the child may introduce evidence, call witnesses, and cross-examine witnesses called by the petitioner or by the parent.

C. If competent, the child may be heard on his own behalf. Any testimony given by a child may be taken by a videotaped interview or by closed circuit television, as authorized by Title 3, Chapter 8 of this Code, or by an in-chambers conference attended only by the judge and court reporter and by counsel for the child, for the petitioner, and for the parents.

D. Testimony or other evidence relevant to the abuse or neglect of a child or the cause of such condition may not be excluded on any ground of privilege, except in the case of communications between an attorney and his client or communications between a priest, rabbi, duly ordained minister, or Christian Science practitioner and his communicant.

Acts 1991, No. 235, §10, eff. Jan. 1, 1992; Acts 1997, No. 256, §1.