An Act requiring the documentation of child counsel appointments

This bill requires the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families to provide official proof that child lawyers have met with children in their custody at least once every three months. Under the new rules, the department must issue documentation confirming these quarterly meetings before paying the attorneys for their time. This change directly affects foster children, social workers, foster parents, and guardians who need to verify that legal representation is actively occurring. The law aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the legal process for minors involved with the state's child welfare system.