Representation of Children in Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings - New Jersey

Making The Appointment

Citation: Ann. Stat. § 9:6-8.23

Any minor who is the subject of a child abuse or neglect proceeding must be represented by a law guardian. The Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family Part, on its own motion, will make appointments of law guardians.

The Use of Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs)

This issue is not addressed in the statutes reviewed.

Qualifications/Training

Citation: Ann. Stat. § 9:6-8.21

The law guardian must be an attorney admitted to the practice of law in this state, regularly employed by the Office of the Public Defender or appointed by the court, and designated under P.L.1974, c.119 to represent minors in alleged cases of child abuse or neglect and in termination of parental rights proceedings.

Specific Duties

Citation: Ann. Stat. § 9:6-8.23

The duty of the law guardian is to help protect the interests of the child and to help the child express his or her wishes to the court.

How the Representative Is Compensated

This issue is not addressed in the statutes reviewed.