Bill > SB632

This bill addresses the consequences for appointed criminal defense attorneys who fail to timely meet and confer with defendants after they have been found competent to stand trial. Specifically, the bill amends the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure to allow courts to replace an attorney who does not meet with their client as required, and permits judges or managed assigned counsel program directors to disapprove payment for legal services if the attorney does not timely meet and confer with the defendant. If the attorney subsequently complies with the meet and confer requirement, they can then receive the previously withheld payment. The changes apply to criminal cases with indictments or information filed before, on, or after the effective date (September 1, 2025), and aim to ensure that appointed counsel maintains proper communication with their clients. The bill introduces new accountability measures for court-appointed attorneys, providing a mechanism to enforce timely client communication and potentially improve legal representation in criminal cases.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB632