The Texas Judicial Council meeting on June 13, 2025, highlighted critical issues surrounding legal representation in child protection cases, emphasizing the urgent need for reform and support for families involved in the system.

A significant focus of the meeting was on the state of family protection representation, which includes court-appointed lawyers for children and parents in child protection cases. The Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) reported that over 28,000 children were in legal conservatorship last fiscal year, with more than 9,000 legally removed from their parents. Additionally, there are approximately 61,000 children involved in family preservation services, indicating a substantial need for legal representation that extends beyond those currently in conservatorship.

The Texas Indigent Defense Commission (TIDC) presented concerning statistics showing that over half of Texas counties reported a decrease in attorneys available for appointment in these cases. This decline in attorney capacity raises alarms about the ability to provide adequate legal representation for families, particularly as many attorneys in the field are nearing retirement age. The meeting underscored the importance of attracting new attorneys to this vital area of law, with discussions on mentorship programs and outreach to law schools to raise awareness about opportunities in child protection law.

Compounding these challenges is the issue of attorney compensation, which varies widely across counties. The TIDC noted that many attorneys face delays in payment, which can deter new lawyers from entering the field. Legislative changes were discussed, including a new requirement for counties to establish fee schedules for court-appointed attorneys, aimed at standardizing compensation and improving the financial viability of practicing in this area.

The meeting also addressed broader systemic issues, such as the need for better funding and support for rural counties, where the shortage of attorneys is particularly acute. The TIDC expressed a commitment to exploring grant opportunities to bolster legal representation in these underserved areas.

In conclusion, the Texas Judicial Council's discussions reflect a pressing need for reform in the legal representation of families in child protection cases. As the state moves forward, the focus will be on enhancing attorney capacity, ensuring fair compensation, and ultimately improving outcomes for children and families navigating the complexities of the legal system. The council aims to prioritize these issues in the upcoming legislative session, recognizing that protecting the rights of families is as crucial as safeguarding the welfare of children.