Bill > S05272

This bill amends the county law and judiciary law to establish and adjust hourly rates for court-appointed attorneys representing individuals in different types of legal cases. Specifically, the bill sets compensation rates at $158 per hour for attorneys representing persons initially charged with misdemeanors or lesser offenses, and $164 per hour for attorneys handling more complex cases like felonies or appeals. The legislation introduces an annual adjustment mechanism for these rates, starting in 2027, which will tie the hourly rates to the rates paid to assigned counsel in federal district courts. The bill also maintains a $10,000 maximum compensation limit per case, with provisions to adjust this limit annually beginning in 2026. Additionally, the bill requires attorneys to submit sworn statements detailing their time, services, and expenses, and prohibits them from seeking additional fees without court approval. The changes aim to provide more consistent and potentially competitive compensation for court-appointed attorneys, ensuring fair representation for individuals who cannot afford private legal counsel. The bill will take effect on April 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5272