HB 4232

Abstract

Amends the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. Provides that a court-appointed attorney serving as the attorney for the minor child, guardian ad litem, or child representative shall review the case and submit a litigation budget for court approval. (Eliminates provisions that state that (i) the court shall order the payment to an appointed attorney, guardian ad litem, or child's representative of an amount for costs, fees, and disbursements, according to invoices filed every 90 days during the representation; and (ii) the court shall review the invoices submitted and approve the fees, if they are reasonable and necessary.) Provides that the court shall not authorize payment of bills to an appointed attorney that are not properly itemized. Provides that case budgets, bills for services and expenses, and any case budget modifications shall be reviewed and approved by the trial judge and the chief judge of the circuit court or the chief judge's designee. Provides that the compensation for an appointed attorney shall not exceed $150 per hour, as adjusted annually by the State Treasurer based upon the consumer price index. Effective immediately.