Scanlon Introduces Legislation to Ensure Access to Legal Counsel in Child Protection Court Proceedings

Scanlon Introduces Legislation to Ensure Access to Legal Counsel in Child Protection Court Proceedings

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) today introduced the Right to Representation Act, to ensure children and families have access to legal representation to protect their rights when they must navigate the complex child welfare system.

Currently, the right to counsel in child welfare protection proceedings is inconsistent across the country. Some jurisdictions have a guaranteed right to counsel, others have limits on appointed counsel depending on the age of the child or duration of the case, and some have no right to counsel at all. Access to legal representation in child protection cases can help facilitate communication between parties, identify resources, and prioritize the well-being of the child. The Right to Representation Act would amend Title IV-E of the Social Security Act to direct states to guarantee independent legal representation for children and parents involved in child protection court proceedings.

"Child protection proceedings are by nature stressful, and children and families need help to navigate the complicated legal and emotional terrain," said Rep. Scanlon. "The Right to Representation Act will assist not just children and families but also family courts as they seek to ensure the best interests of the child. I'm proud to introduce this legislation in order to promote access to justice for our most vulnerable children and parents."

Before coming to Congress, Rep. Scanlon spent decades as a child advocate, representing children in the abuse and neglect system, students in public schools, and children with disabilities. She was a senior attorney at the Education Law Center of Pennsylvania, and a President of her local school board. Scanlon currently serves as co-chair of the Congressional Caucuses on Access to Legal Aid, Youth Mentoring, and Foster Youth.

The bill is endorsed by the National Foster Youth Institute, National Association of Counsel for Children, Juvenile Law Center, United Family Advocates, Center for the Rights of Abused Children, and Community Legal Services of Philadelphia.

Find the full bill text here.

###