The bill HB275 amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to improve the structure and function of voluntary indigent defense advisory boards and the compensation for attorneys representing indigent defendants. Key provisions include the establishment of a board in each judicial circuit, consisting of five members, including the presiding circuit judge and representatives from the local bar association and practicing attorneys. The bill mandates that board membership reflect the diversity of the judicial circuit and outlines processes for filling vacancies and managing conflicts of interest. Additionally, the board is tasked with reviewing billing standards for attorneys and making recommendations to enhance the indigent defense system's effectiveness.

The bill also revises the compensation structure for attorneys, introducing new hourly rates and caps for various charges, such as $120 per hour for capital offenses with no cap, and $100 per hour for Class A felonies capped at $6,000. It extends the submission period for billing from 90 to 120 days post-case conclusion and requires court certification for bill reasonableness. Furthermore, it allows reimbursement for reasonable non-overhead expenses and mandates prior approval for expenses exceeding $300. The bill increases the hourly rate for appellate counsel and establishes new caps for total fees in appeals. Overall, HB275 aims to enhance financial support and operational efficiency for attorneys serving indigent defendants, with an effective date of October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 15-12-4, 15-12-21, 15-12-22
Engrossed: 15-12-4, 15-12-21, 15-12-22
Enrolled: 15-12-4, 15-12-21, 15-12-22