Missouri Revised Statutes § 477.700 - Commission created, members, terms, compensation — rules

477.700. Commission created, members, terms, compensation — rules. — 1. There is hereby created the "Child and Family Legal Representation Coordinating Commission" within the judicial branch, which shall be composed of nine members appointed by the chief justice of the Missouri supreme court. At least three members of the coordinating commission shall be attorneys licensed to practice law in this state, who have a minimum of five years of experience representing children as counsel or guardians ad litem. At least one member shall be a former foster youth with direct experience navigating the foster care system in this state. At least one member shall be a resident of this state who has no direct professional affiliation with the legal or child welfare system, but who has demonstrated commitment to child advocacy and protection. The chief justice shall designate one member to serve as chair and one member as vice chair. The vice chair shall preside in the absence of the chair. 2. The members of the coordinating commission shall serve for terms of four years and until their successors are appointed and qualified; except that, of the initial members appointed, three shall serve terms of one year, three shall serve terms of two years, and three shall serve terms of four years, as designated by the chief justice. If a vacancy occurs, the chief justice shall appoint a replacement, who shall serve the unexpired portion of the term. Members of the coordinating commission may succeed themselves. 3. Members of the coordinating commission shall serve without compensation, but shall be reimbursed out of funds appropriated for this purpose for actual and reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. 4. The Missouri supreme court may adopt such rules as it deems appropriate to govern the procedures and operations of the coordinating commission. (L. 2025 H.B. 737 & 486 merged with S.B. 43)