(a) In all proceedings initiated under a petition for delinquency, a minor shall have the right to be represented by counsel and, if indigent, have counsel appointed by the court. The court shall appoint counsel in such cases unless it makes a finding on the record that the minor has made a voluntary, knowing, and intelligent waiver of the right to counsel and a parent or guardian with whom the minor resides or resided before the filing of the petition concurs with the waiver. In cases in which it has been alleged that the minor has committed an act that would be a felony if committed by an adult, waiver of counsel may not be accepted unless the court is satisfied that the minor has consulted with an attorney before the waiver of counsel.

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Terms Used In Alaska Statutes 47.12.090

  • court: means the superior court of the state. See Alaska Statutes 47.12.990
  • Guardian: A person legally empowered and charged with the duty of taking care of and managing the property of another person who because of age, intellect, or health, is incapable of managing his (her) own affairs.
  • minor: as used in this chapter includes a person described in this section. See Alaska Statutes 47.12.022
  • person: includes a corporation, company, partnership, firm, association, organization, business trust, or society, as well as a natural person. See Alaska Statutes 01.10.060
(b) Whenever in the course of proceedings instituted under this chapter it appears to the court that the welfare of a minor will be promoted by the appointment of an attorney to represent the minor or an attorney or other person to serve as guardian ad litem, the court may make the appointment. Appointment of a guardian ad litem or attorney shall be made under the terms of Alaska Stat. § 25.24.310.