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SB 2501

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 (2025) Introduced by Brooks Landgraf and 1 co-sponsor

Texas bill allowing indigent parents to select their own court-appointed attorney in family law cases; vetoed by governor citing likely implementation concerns.

Vetoed by the Governor
#courtadministration #officeof(v8690) #family--childprotection(i0351) #family--parent&child(i0355) #indigentlegalservices(s0598) #lawyers(i0515)
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Bill Summary · SB 2501

Legislative bill overview

SB 2501 allows indigent parents in Texas family law cases to select their own attorney ad litem (a court-appointed representative) rather than having one assigned by the court. The bill modifies the process for parent-child relationship suits to give low-income parents greater choice in legal representation while maintaining court oversight of qualifications.

Why is this important

Indigent parents involved in custody, conservatorship, and termination of parental rights cases often lack resources to hire attorneys. This bill affects whether vulnerable populations can have input into who represents their interests in high-stakes family proceedings that determine custody and parental rights. The governor's veto suggests concerns about implementation costs, judicial efficiency, or other practical considerations.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Expanding attorney selection options could increase administrative burdens on courts and potentially raise costs for public defender systems or court-appointed counsel programs
  • Quality control and availability: Allowing parent selection might result in inconsistent attorney qualifications or leave some areas with insufficient willing participants in the ad litem program
  • Judicial efficiency: Individualized attorney selection could complicate scheduling and case management compared to centralized assignment systems, potentially delaying proceedings

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

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