Rule 2 - [Effective until June 1, 2018] Hearings A. Presence of the Child. A child who is not of suitable age to understand or participate in the proceedings need not be present at hearings in abuse and neglect actions unless the court so orders. A child alleged or adjudicated to be delinquent, or in need of supervision, shall be present at all hearings unless otherwise ordered by the court. A child alleged or adjudicated to be delinquent, or in need of supervision, shall be present at any hearing where the court is required to advise the child of the contents of a Petition and the child's rights under any applicable statute.
Upon motion of a party, the court may excuse the presence of a child alleged or adjudicated to be delinquent, or in need of supervision, who is of suitable age, if attendance would be detrimental to the child; or allow a child to appear by telephone.
B. Presence of Foster Parent. A foster parent or other out-of-home care provider is entitled to be heard at any hearing. However, the court may limit the presence of the foster parent or care provider to the time during which the person's testimony is being given if it is (1) in the best interest of the child; or (2) necessary to protect the privacy interests of the parties and will not be detrimental to the child. C. General Public Excluded. Hearings are not open to the public. However, the court may, after due consideration for the welfare of the child and the family, admit specific individuals to a hearing. Victims of delinquent acts, and members of their immediate families may be present pursuant to Wyoming statutes. D. Notice to Foster Parents, Pre-Adoptive Parents, or Relative Caregivers. Prior to each hearing held pursuant to the Child Protection Act, the county or district attorney, or another entity designated by the court, shall provide written notice of such hearing, including their right to be heard, to the child's foster parents, pre-adoptive parents, or relative caregivers. This provision shall not be construed to require foster parents, pre-adoptive parents, or relative caregivers to be made a party to the hearing or proceeding solely on the basis of such notice and opportunity to be heard. Adopted February 9, 2007, effective July 1, 2007; amended March 25, 2008, effective July 1, 2008.