The proposed bill would significantly update current statutes by establishing a Child and Family Representation Program within the Administrative Office of the Courts, aimed at providing high-quality legal representation for juveniles, parents, and guardians in juvenile court. This program would require the Supreme Court to hire necessary personnel, assess attorney training, recommend practice standards, and report annually on its effectiveness. Additionally, the bill mandates a review of the program's outcomes every five years starting in 2030. It also introduces restrictions on judicial salary increases, prohibits the judicial branch from contracting for lobbying services, and requires legislative approval for certain election-related legal actions by the Attorney General and county attorneys.

Moreover, the bill would enhance the legal framework for compensation related to erroneous convictions by ensuring that compensation awarded to claimants is not offset by litigation costs. It mandates the court to issue a finding of erroneous conviction and requires the Arizona Department of Administration to remit payment within 45 days. The bill also stipulates the expungement of records for claimants, regardless of prior felony convictions, and introduces new entitlements for victims of crimes related to erroneous convictions. Overall, these updates aim to improve legal representation, support for affected individuals, and the processes surrounding erroneous convictions and juvenile proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 12-102.05, 12-299.16, 13-2314.01, 31-227, 41-2409, 8-221, 35-190, 13-2301, 13-2312, 13-2314.03, 13-4315, 41-196, 13-4301, 41-1278
House Engrossed Version: 12-102.05, 12-299.16, 12-751.01, 13-2314.01, 31-227, 41-1234, 41-2404, 41-2409, 8-221, 12-751, 35-190, 13-2301, 13-2312, 13-2314.03, 13-4315, 41-196, 13-4301, 41-1278, 13-3821, 41-622, 13-610, 13-4033, 13-4401, 41-2407, 41-1231