In re Joan L.

In this case, we decide which governmental entity is responsible for payment of attorney’s fees when counsel is appointed to represent a juvenile alleged to be a child in need of services.

Attorney John Dubiansky was appointed to represent a child alleged to be in need of services. The district court approved his bill for services and forwarded it to the City of Manchester Welfare Department for payment. The City of Manchester refused to pay his fee, asserting that the State was liable for the cost of representation. Attorney Dubiansky filed a “Motion to Compel Payment” in Manchester District…