Clarifies juvenile's right to attorney representation.*

S 269 clarifies that juveniles in New Jersey delinquency cases have the right to an attorney at every critical stage of court proceedings, including all court appearances and investigative steps by police or prosecutors after a complaint is filed. It requires that juveniles with mental capacity cannot waive legal rights without counsel present and after parental consultation, and mandates written/recorded waivers with court verification that the waiver is voluntary. Juveniles without mental capacity must have a guardian ad litem to handle waivers. The bill directly affects all juveniles facing court in delinquency cases, ensuring consistent access to legal representation during key legal moments.