Section 14-3-422 - Advising of right to counsel required; appointment of counsel; verification of financial condition(a) At their first appearance before the court and at their initial hearing the child's parents, guardian or custodian shall be advised by the court of their right to be represented by counsel at every stage of the proceedings including appeal, and to employ counsel of their own choice.(b) The court shall upon request appoint counsel to represent the child's parents, guardian or custodian if the child's parents, guardian or custodian are unable to obtain counsel. If appointment of counsel is requested, the court shall require the child's parents, guardian or custodian to verify their financial condition under oath, either by written affidavit signed and sworn to by the parties or by sworn testimony made a part of the record of the proceedings. The affidavit or sworn testimony shall state they are without sufficient money, property, assets or credit to employ counsel in their own behalf. The court may require further verification of financial condition if it deems necessary.(c) The court may appoint counsel for any party when necessary in the interest of justice.Amended by Laws 2011 , ch. 79, § 1, eff. 7/1/2011.