Relating to special appointments in suits affecting the parent-child relationship.

Created new Section 107.024 requiring courts to appoint amicus attorneys when necessary to determine the child's best interests, with specific criteria for making appointments.

Added comprehensive conflict of interest and bias disclosure requirements that must be made before appointment and immediately upon discovering new conflicts after appointment.

Modified existing attorney ad litem provisions to clarify their role distinction from amicus attorneys and added limitations on their testimony and work product protection.

Created new duties for amicus attorneys including interviewing children and relevant persons, investigating facts, and advocating for the child's best interests rather than the child's expressed objectives.

Established limitations on amicus attorneys prohibiting them from offering opinions on conservatorship or possession, engaging in ex parte communications, or submitting reports as evidence.

Added provisions requiring amicus attorneys to communicate in the primary language of parties or use certified interpreters when language barriers exist.

Established minimum qualifications for amicus attorneys including Texas bar licensure, two years of practice experience, child advocacy training, and four hours of continuing legal education in family violence, child interviewing, and dispute resolution.

Defined 'amicus attorney' as an attorney appointed to assist the court in protecting a child's best interests rather than providing legal services to the child.

Created removal procedures for amicus attorneys who fail to meet qualifications, have undisclosed conflicts, fail to perform duties, or violate standards of care.