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.  The court shall appoint counsel for the child.

Acts 1991, No. 235, §8, eff. Jan. 1, 1992; Acts 2012, No. 730, §1.