2011 California Code
Welfare and Institutions Code
DIVISION 2. CHILDREN [100 - 1500]
ARTICLE 7. Dependent Children Temporary Custody and Detention
Section 317.6

(a) On or before January 1, 1996, the Judicial Council shall, after consulting with representatives from the State Bar of California, county counsels, district attorneys, public defenders, county welfare directors, and children s advocacy groups, adopt rules of court regarding the appointment of competent counsel in dependency proceedings, including, but not limited to, the following:

(1) The screening and appointment of competent counsel.

(2) Establishing minimum standards of experience and education necessary to qualify as competent counsel to represent a party in dependency proceedings.

(3) Procedures for handling client complaints regarding attorney performance, including measures to inform clients of the complaint process.

(4) Procedures for informing the court of any interests of the minor that may need to be protected in other proceedings.

(b) On or before July 1, 1996, each superior court shall, after consulting with representatives from the State Bar of California and the local offices of the county counsel, district attorney, public defender, county welfare department, and children s advocacy groups, adopt local rules of court regarding the conduct of dependency proceedings that address items such as procedures and timeframes for the presentation of contested issues and witness lists to eliminate unnecessary delays in dependency hearings.

(Amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 91, Sec. 183. Effective January 1, 1996.)