I just spoke with (attorney X), who identified himself as employed with the PD's office in Orlando. He said that the PD Association had previously proposed to take the first crack at dependency representation in all circuits and allow the Regional Conflict Counsel to handle any conflicts - similar to the way criminal cases will be handled.
This was proposed in the Special Session as a stopgap measure to stem the budget reduction the PDs were facing anew. Apparently this issue is too complicated for the Special Session as (attorney X) reports that the effort has stalled. He agreed to email me the written supporting documentation.
I can't say that I blame the PDs given their worries over budget. It should be obvious that this proposal, if adopted would well and truly kill off the rotation for private attorneys in dependency cases. My gut tells me this will not happen in the special session, but if it is brought back up again in the regular session next year...well, I suppose you read it here first.
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