Appointment

Sec. 202.001. APPOINTMENT. (a) After an order for child support or possession of or access to a child has been rendered, a court may appoint a friend of the court on: (1) the request of a person alleging that the order has been violated; or (2) its own motion. (b) A court may appoint a friend of the court in a proceeding under Part D of Title IV of the federal Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Section 651 et seq.) only if the Title IV-D agency agrees in writing to the appointment. (c) The duration of the appointment of a friend of the court is as determined by the court. (d) In the appointment of a friend of the court, the court shall give preference to: (1) a local domestic relations office; (2) a local child support collection office; (3) the local court official designated to enforce actions as provided in Chapter 159; or (4) an attorney in good standing with the State Bar of Texas. (e) In the execution of a friend of the court's duties under this subchapter, a friend of the court shall represent the court to ensure compliance with the court's order. Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.