Bill > H0243

This bill modifies Florida Statute 903.286 to expand the circumstances under which a court clerk can withhold funds from a cash bond posted by a criminal defendant. Specifically, the bill now allows the clerk to withhold funds from cash bonds posted by the defendant or the defendant's spouse, whereas previously the law was more limited. The bill requires cash bond forms to include a prominent notice explaining that all funds are subject to forfeiture and that the clerk is authorized to withhold funds posted by a defendant or their spouse to cover various court-related expenses, such as prosecution costs, representation costs, court fees, court costs, and criminal penalties. If the bond does not have sufficient funds to cover these expenses, the clerk must seek payment from the defendant or enroll them in a payment plan. The changes aim to provide clearer guidelines for handling cash bonds and ensuring that associated court costs are paid. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/243