Art. 853. Effect of nonappearance by a parent
If it appears from the record that the parent has been served in accordance with Article 849 or 852 and summoned to any hearing, or cannot be found, and the parent fails to appear, the hearing may be held in the parent's absence. Should the court decide to proceed, it may appoint a Court Appointed Special Advocate in accordance with Article 424 for the child. The court shall appoint counsel for the child if neither parent appears.
Acts 1991, No. 235, §8, eff. Jan. 1, 1992.