This bill amends Section 815.10 of the Iowa Code regarding the appointment of counsel for indigent individuals. Under current law, the court has the discretion to appoint a noncontract attorney if no contract attorney is available. The proposed change mandates that the court shall appoint a noncontract attorney in such cases, ensuring that indigent individuals receive legal representation when contract attorneys are unavailable. Additionally, the order of appointment must include a specific finding that no contract attorney was available.

The bill is deemed of immediate importance and takes effect upon enactment, emphasizing the urgency of providing legal counsel to those in need. This legislative change aims to strengthen the rights of indigent defendants by ensuring they have access to legal representation without delay.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 815.10