French National Assembly Unanimously Passes Law Guaranteeing Legal Representation for Minors Under Educational Assistance

On December 11, 2025, the French National Assembly unanimously adopted a landmark law ensuring that every child under educational assistance has access to a lawyer. The legislation, which passed with 269 votes in favor and none against, aims to provide legal representation and a protective voice for children placed in foster care or monitored by social services. Socialist deputy Ayda Hadizadeh, who championed the bill, stressed the importance of legal advocacy for these children, describing the lawyer as a "light in the dark" for minors often left feeling neglected and unheard during judicial procedures.

Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin endorsed the initiative, which had previously been approved by the parliamentary committee. This law addresses concerns that children under social protection require professional legal support to navigate decisions that affect their safety and welfare.

In addition to this legislative success, the assembly is set to examine a related law focused on minors suspected of being adults. The proposed measure intends to ensure these youths retain access to child protection services throughout their appeals process, preventing situations where they end up homeless while awaiting final status determinations.

The Socialist Party also tabled several other proposals during the session, including automatic renewal of long-term residence permits for foreigners, strengthening rent control measures—which studies show have kept rental costs lower—and the creation of a national mental health network for farmers. A new constitutional authority to safeguard secularism was also proposed.

These legislative efforts collectively underscore a broader commitment to social protection, legal rights, and administrative simplification for vulnerable populations in France. The guarantee of legal representation for minors under social assistance marks a significant step forward in ensuring these children’s voices are heard and their rights upheld in legal and social proceedings.