Bill > S0762

This bill modifies the procedures for appointing and managing regional counsel, which are offices that provide legal representation for indigent defendants, particularly in complex cases like those involving the death penalty. Specifically, it requires that if an office of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel determines it cannot represent an indigent defendant in a death penalty case due to a conflict or lack of qualifications, it must notify the court in writing, stating the defendant's indigence and the state's intent to seek the death penalty. The court can then appoint an office from another region, provided that counsel is qualified for death penalty cases. These appointed regional counsel will need to submit documentation for reimbursement of costs to the Justice Administrative Commission, which is a state agency that handles administrative and financial matters for the justice system, and will be reimbursed subject to legislative funding. Furthermore, regional offices accepting such appointments must biannually report specific case details to the commission, including the appointed counsel, case status, and discovery progress. If a regional office cannot accept an appointment, private counsel will be appointed. The bill also updates a cross-reference in a section concerning the determination of incapacity to align with these changes and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

Judiciary (Senate)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/762