2005 Arizona Revised Statutes - Revised Statutes §15-763.01  Surrogate parent; appointment

A. A petition for the appointment of a surrogate parent for a child with a disability shall be made to a court of competent jurisdiction if any of the following conditions have been met:

1. No parent can be identified.

2. A public agency cannot determine the whereabouts of a parent, after having made three documented and reasonable attempts.

3. The child is a ward of the state.

B. In order for a person to be eligible to receive an appointment as a surrogate parent for a child with a disability all of the following must be true:

1. The person shall be determined by the court to possess knowledge and skills that will ensure adequate representation of the child.

2. The person may not be an employee of a state agency if that agency is involved in the education or care of the child.

3. The person may not have any interests that would conflict with the best interests of the child.

4. The person shall have a valid fingerprint clearance card issued pursuant to title 41, chapter 12, article 3.1.

C. A person who is appointed as a surrogate parent for a child with a disability shall not be deemed to be an employee of the state solely as a result of serving as a surrogate parent and receiving compensation for that service.