SF2006

This bill proposes modifications to the organization, governance, and employment terms of the Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training and the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training in Minnesota.

Key Provisions:

1. Establishment of the Office:

   • The Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training will be an independent state agency responsible for:
     • Providing appellate representation to parents in juvenile protection cases, including in tribal court jurisdictions.
     • Offering training and establishing practice standards for parent attorneys across the state.
       
     • Working with the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families to access federal Title IV-E funding for counties and Tribes.
       

2. State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training:

   • The board will oversee the Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training and will consist of seven members:
     • Four public members appointed by the governor.
     • Three members appointed by the Minnesota Supreme Court, at least one of whom must have experience representing parents in juvenile court.
   • Individuals prohibited from serving on the board include judges, lobbyists, guardians ad litem, child attorneys, employees of child welfare departments, and city or county attorneys.
   • The board must strive for geographic and demographic diversity and include representatives from federally recognized Indian Tribes.

3. Appointment of Head Appellate Counsel and Other Employees:

   • The board will appoint a Head Appellate Counsel to oversee the office.
     
   • The Head Appellate Counsel will:
     • Serve a four-year term and can only be removed for cause.
       
     • Be a full-time licensed attorney in Minnesota.
     • Receive a salary comparable to county attorneys in Minnesota.
   • The office will also include:
     
     • Managing appellate attorney
       
     • Two staff attorneys
       
     • Director of training
       
     • Program administrator (to support Title IV-E funding coordination)
       
     • Office administrator
   • Compensation will be determined based on collective bargaining agreements and state salary plans.

Purpose:

The bill seeks to ensure high-quality and independent appellate representation for parents in juvenile cases, improve training and support for attorneys representing parents in the child welfare system, and enhance coordination with federal funding sources to support these legal services.