The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes regarding the compensation of court-appointed counsel for capital defendants in state postconviction relief proceedings. Under current law, counsel not employed by a publicly funded office is limited to an hourly rate of $100. The bill introduces a provision allowing for compensation exceeding this amount, provided that the higher rate has been approved by the county board of supervisors. This change aims to provide greater flexibility in compensating legal counsel based on the specific circumstances of each case.

Additionally, the bill makes a technical adjustment to the language regarding compensation payments, clarifying that the county shall not set or pay compensation in cases where the defendant is represented by a public defender or other publicly funded office. The overall structure of the existing law remains intact, with the primary updates focusing on the potential for increased compensation rates and the conditions under which payments are made to appointed counsel.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-4041
Senate Engrossed Version: 13-4041