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Bill

HB 2011

Developing a schedule for court appointment of attorneys for children and youth in dependency and termination proceedings.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mia Gregerson and 2 co-sponsors

Washington state bill requiring courts to establish scheduling procedures for appointing attorneys to represent children in dependency and termination cases.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · HB 2011

Legislative bill overview

HB 2011 directs Washington state courts to develop and implement a schedule for appointing attorneys to represent children and youth involved in dependency cases (where child welfare is at issue) and termination proceedings (where parental rights may be ended). The bill establishes a framework to ensure consistent, timely legal representation for minors in these high-stakes cases.

Why is this important

Children in dependency and termination proceedings face decisions that fundamentally affect their safety, custody, and future. Currently, attorney appointment practices may vary by county or courtroom, potentially creating inconsistent protection of children's legal interests. A statewide schedule aims to standardize when and how quickly children receive dedicated legal representation in these critical proceedings.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation burden: Creating statewide scheduling systems and ensuring adequate attorney availability across all counties requires significant resources and coordination; some counties may struggle to meet appointment timelines
  • Attorney capacity and quality: If the schedule creates appointment demands faster than qualified attorneys can be recruited and trained, representation quality could suffer or implementation could be delayed
  • Judicial discretion: Establishing rigid schedules may conflict with judges' ability to respond to individual case circumstances or emergency situations requiring flexibility

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

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