FCRPP 35.Standards for court-appointed counsel
Last amended February 1, 2020 · Current through July 1, 2026 · Last verified September 8, 2026
Full Text of FCRPP 35
Amendment History
Kentucky publishes each rule’s amendment record as a “HISTORY” note beneath the rule, citing the Supreme Court order that adopted or amended it and that order’s effective date. It is reproduced verbatim below.
HISTORY: Adopted by Order 2020-1, eff. 2-1-20
Plain-English Summary
The scope provision is broad on purpose. Rules 35 through 38 apply to the appointment and conduct of court-appointed counsel — including guardians ad litem and those representing adults — in any adoption, dependency or termination action. One standard covers the lawyer for the child and the lawyer for the parent.
On top of those rules, court-appointed counsel follow the Statewide Standards of Expected Conduct set out in Appendix D. A Circuit or District may deviate from them by local rule, but only with the Chief Justice's approval — so local variation is possible and supervised rather than free.
Where a local standard is proposed, it must set out the conduct expected of court-appointed counsel, and the rule directs that it should incorporate American Bar Association or National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges best practice standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which rules govern court-appointed counsel in Kentucky family cases?
Rules 35 through 38, which apply to the appointment and conduct of court-appointed counsel including guardians ad litem and those representing adults, in any action under KRS Chapters 199, 620 and 625.
What standards of conduct apply?
The Statewide Standards of Expected Conduct for Court-Appointed Counsel in Appendix D. A Circuit or District may deviate by local rule if approved by the Chief Justice.
Do the same rules apply to a guardian ad litem and to a parent's lawyer?
Yes. The rules apply to court-appointed counsel including guardians ad litem and those representing adults alike.