Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 1 of 1
Full-Text Articles in Law
The Representation Of Children: A Summary And Analysis Of The Bar Association Law Guardian Study, Merril Sobie
The Representation Of Children: A Summary And Analysis Of The Bar Association Law Guardian Study, Merril Sobie
Elisabeth Haub School of Law Faculty Publications
The law guardian system constitutes a unique opportunity to protect the interests and rights of New York's children. Inaugurated in 1962 and expanded greatly in the past twenty years, the system's goals are laudatory. However, a lack of structure and responsibility has seriously compromised the effectiveness of counsel. Representation is frequently characterized by perfunctory preparation and a waiver of substantive and procedural rights. Moreover, the system is needlessly bifurcated and incapable of providing the education, experience and assistance required for effective counsel. The Bar Association study provides a blueprint for improvement. Legislative restructuring to establish an independent board and office …