D03BAE61B825F8948725821300713FEE Hearing Summary

       Ms. Linda Weinerman, Executive Director, and Ms. Ashley Chase, Legislative Liaison, Office of the Child's Representative (OCR), appeared before the committee pursuant to the SMART Government Act and Joint Rule 25.  Committee members received a flow chart about OCR and associated offices (Attachment E).  The committee also received a packet of slides (Attachment F)  that corresponded to Ms. Chase's  presentation.  Ms. Frolich responded to questions regarding cost recovery from parents in certain cases.  Ms. Chase returned to her presentation, with Ms. Weinerman also providing input.  Ms. Weinerman responded to questions regarding the potential for replicating the successes of the El Paso County guardian ad litem office.

11:24 AM



       Discussion continued regarding cases relying on the services of guardians ad litem and the OCR and the associated costs.  Ms. Weinerman returned to the presentation, explaining the duties of the OCR and providing an overview of the office's budget.  Ms. Chase responded to questions regarding the use of expert witnesses in cases litigated by the OCR.





11:35 AM



       Ms. Weinerman discussed attorney use of time and various data compiled by the OCR.  She also responded to questions regarding how the office conducts stakeholder surveys and discussion followed regarding the types of family dynamics encountered by OCR.  The committee and the OCR representatives brainstormed about how to attract attorneys in rural areas.  



11:50 AM



       The committee recessed for lunch.