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Bill

SB 55

AN ACT relating to guardian ad litem fees.

2025 Regular Session

Kentucky bill modifies guardian ad litem fee structure for child-focused legal representation in family and child welfare court proceedings.

to Appropriations & Revenue (S)
#attorneys #childrenandminors #courts #fees
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Bill Summary · SB 55

Legislative bill overview

SB 55 relates to guardian ad litem (GAL) fees in Kentucky. Guardian ad litems are court-appointed advocates who represent the best interests of children in legal proceedings. The bill modifies how these fees are structured, paid, or regulated, though specific provisions are not yet publicly detailed given its early committee stage.

Why is this important

Guardian ad litems play a critical role in child welfare cases, custody disputes, and abuse/neglect proceedings. Fee structures directly affect the availability and quality of child representation, as well as the financial burden on families, courts, and the state. Changes to GAL compensation can influence service quality and access to these essential protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Disputes over whether fees should be paid by parents, the state, court funds, or some combination—affecting affordability and incentives
  • Service quality: Whether proposed fee changes adequately compensate GALs for thorough case investigation and advocacy, or create pressure to rush cases
  • Access equity: Whether fee modifications create disparities in GAL representation quality across rural versus urban areas or wealthy versus low-income families

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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