Iowa § 232.38 - 232.38 Presence of parents at hearings.
Full text of Iowa Iowa Code § 232.38 — 232.38 Presence of parents at hearings., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 232.38. 232.38 Presence of parents at hearings.
1. Any hearings or proceedings under this subchapter subsequent to the filing of a petition shall not take place without the presence of one or both of the child’s parents, guardian, or custodian except that a hearing or proceeding may take place without such presence if the parent, guardian, or custodian fails to appear after reasonable notification, or if the court finds that a reasonably diligent effort has been made to notify the child’s parent, guardian, or custodian, and the effort was unavailing. 2. In any such hearings or proceedings the court may temporarily excuse the presence of the parent, guardian, or custodian when the court deems it in the best interests of the child. Counsel for the parent, guardian, or custodian shall have the right to participate in a hearing or proceeding during the absence of the parent, guardian, or custodian. [SS15, §254-a16; C24, 27, 31, 35, 39, §3631; C46, 50, 54, 58, 62, §232.15; C66, 71, 73, 75, 77, §232.11, 232.30; C79, 81, §232.38] 2020 Acts, ch 1062, §94; 2023 Acts, ch 19, §596 Referred to in §232.91 Thu Dec 11 19:05:40 2025 Iowa Code 2026, Section 232.38 (30, 0)
Source: official Iowa text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa § 232.38
What does Iowa Code § 232.38 cover?
Section 232.38 ("232.38 Presence of parents at hearings.") is part of the Iowa Code, the codified statutory law of Iowa. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Iowa § 232.38?
A common citation format is "Iowa Code § 232.38" (Iowa). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Iowa law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Iowa official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Iowa attorney.
How does Iowa § 232.38 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Iowa can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Iowa.