LANSING, Mich. (Dec. 12, 2024) — Today, the Michigan Senate passed House Bill 4630, which guarantees the Michigan children who are accused of a serious crime or delinquency have representation by a court appointed attorney if they cannot afford one. Sen. Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.) released the following statement to celebrate the passing of this legislation:
“I am proud to say House Bill 4630 has passed the Senate, and with its passage, we are one step closer to expanding the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission to include juvenile defendants. This legislation ensures that children involved in the justice system in Michigan will have access to a competent attorney, regardless of their family’s financial situation — a right already guaranteed to adults.
“I’ve advocated strongly on this issue because I know that access to legal representation can mean the difference between a child’s bright future and a tragic outcome. This bill closes a critical gap in our justice system and upholds the fundamental principle that everyone has a right to an attorney when accused of a serious crime.”