The bill amends section 27.511 of the Florida Statutes to establish new requirements for offices of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel when they can no longer represent an indigent defendant in a death penalty case due to conflicts of interest or lack of qualifications. Specifically, these offices must provide written notice to the court, detailing the indigent status of the defendant and the reasons for their inability to continue representation. Upon receiving this notice, the court is authorized to appoint another regional office of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel, provided that the new office agrees to the appointment and meets the necessary qualifications. Additionally, the bill mandates that appointed counsel submit documentation for reimbursement to the Justice Administrative Commission and requires biannual reporting from regional offices that accept such appointments.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 744.331 to conform a cross-reference related to the appointment of attorneys for alleged incapacitated persons, specifying that the court must appoint either the office of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel or a private attorney as outlined in the newly inserted section 27.511(7). The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 177 Filed: 744.331
H 177 c1: 744.331