AB 373: Dependency proceedings: counsel.

This bill amends the welfare and institutions code to change the role of appointed counsel for children and non-minor dependents in dependency proceedings. The bill removes the requirement that counsel must prioritize the protection, safety, and physical and emotional well-being of the child or non-minor dependent. It also removes the exception that allowed counsel to ignore the wishes of the non-minor dependent when those wishes conflicted with their protection or safety. As a result, counsel's primary responsibility is to represent the best interests of the child or non-minor dependent, without prioritizing their well-being or adhering to exceptions based on wishes.