Criminal procedure: indigent defense; parent and child legal representation commission; create. Creates new act.
Key claim: SB0885 would create a new Parent and Child Legal Representation Commission to oversee indigent defense for parents and children in Michigan.
Abstract
(SB0885 · 103rd Legislature) Criminal procedure: indigent defense; parent and child legal representation commission; create. Creates new act. Latest action (2026-07-01): Placed On Order Of Third Reading With Substitute (s-1)
Why this matters
Indigent defense representation for parents and children in child welfare proceedings has historically been funded and administered unevenly across Michigan counties, affecting both taxpayer costs and outcomes for families. Creating a dedicated statutory commission would centralize standards, potentially shifting cost and administrative responsibilities between the state and local courts. The proposal parallels the existing Michigan Indigent Defense Commission structure for adult and youth criminal defense.