A. Except in emergencies or where the court determines it to be inappropriate, the court, its officer, or any person it designates shall convene a conference to be attended by the child, his parents or other legal custodian, and representatives of any public institution or agency having legal responsibility or discretionary ability to supply services to the family, which according to the petition are needed.
B. This conference may be held at any time before or after a petition is filed but shall be held before any appearance to answer is made.
Acts 1991, No. 235, §7.