Monday, April 23, 2012
The Kansas Court of Appeals is scheduled to hear the case of a woman who lost full custody of her child after a case manager recommended custody go to the child's father.
Karen Williams contends the March 2011 custody decision was based on confidential conversations between the judge and the case manager. Williams says she didn't have a chance to respond to accusations made by the case manager, violating her right to due process.
In Kansas, case managers are appointed by judges and aren't required to be licensed.
The Legislature is also considering a bill requiring specific qualifications for case managers. It would restrict judges to appointing only licensed psychologists, psychotherapists, counselors, therapists, social workers or lawyers.
The appeals court hears the case May 15.
