Counsel For Kids

Children in court need lawyers of their own. We’re working to make sure they have them.

In 13 states, the one person at the center of a child welfare court proceeding is the one person
who does not get their own lawyer.

NACC works to change law by providing technical assistance to state advocates working to ensure children have a right to counsel. Learn more on our campaign page.

What You Can Do

  • Stay up to date: sign up for emails about Counsel for Kids efforts.
  • Follow NACC on social media @NACCchildlaw and #Counsel4Kids
  • Check if your state guarantees counsel for kids.
  • Advocate for Counsel for Kids at the state or federal level. Contact the campaign to request technical assistance with state-level advocacy.

Get involved! Contact NACC Legal Director Allison Green or NACC Policy Counsel Natalece Washington.

Recent NACC Letters, Federal Advocacy, and Resources

January 2022 Letter to Congress

June 2021 Senate HELP Committee Hearing (Video Recording)

June 2021 Feedback on CAPTA Reauthorization Suggested Language

June 2021 Letter to Congress

Senate Bill 1927 to amend CAPTA

April 2021 Letter to Congress