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SB 25

Relating to selection of an attorney by an indigent parent as attorney ad litem for the parent in certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Judith Zaffirini

SB 25 allows indigent Texas parents in custody cases to select their own court-appointed attorney instead of having one assigned by judges.

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#courtadministration #officeof(v8690) #courts--general(i0160) #family--parent&child(i0355) #indigentlegalservices(s0598) #lawyers(i0515)
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Bill Summary · SB 25

Legislative bill overview

SB 25 would allow indigent parents in Texas child-custody proceedings to select their own attorney ad litem (a lawyer appointed to represent their interests) rather than having one assigned by the court. Currently, courts appoint attorneys ad litem for parents who cannot afford legal representation. This bill shifts selection authority to the parents themselves while maintaining indigency requirements.

Why is this important

Parent-child custody cases directly affect family stability and child welfare outcomes. The ability to choose one's legal representative could improve parental confidence in the legal process and potentially strengthen case advocacy, though court-appointed systems exist partly to ensure qualified representation and manage costs. This change affects how Texas allocates resources for indigent legal services in family law.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Allowing parent selection could increase legal aid program expenses if parents choose higher-cost attorneys, potentially straining state budgets for indigent services
  • Quality control concerns: Court-appointment systems filter for qualified attorneys; parent selection might result in inexperienced or unsuitable representation without adequate oversight mechanisms
  • Procedural efficiency: Parent-selected attorneys unfamiliar with the court system or individual judges could slow proceedings, potentially harming children awaiting custody determinations
  • Implementation logistics: Unclear how the bill would handle attorney availability, conflicts of interest, or what happens if selected attorneys become unavailable mid-case

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

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