This bill amends Code of Criminal Procedure Article 335, which pertains to bond forfeitures in Louisiana. The key change introduced by this legislation is the modification of the time period for filing a rule to show cause for bond forfeiture. Specifically, the bill stipulates that if a defendant fails to appear and has not surrendered within 180 days of the notice of the arrest warrant, the prosecuting attorney may file for bond forfeiture. The time frame for this filing is now set to be within five years after the notice of the warrant is sent, replacing the previous provision that did not specify a time frame.
Overall, this amendment aims to clarify and establish a definitive timeline for prosecuting attorneys to initiate bond forfeiture proceedings, thereby streamlining the process and ensuring that cases are addressed in a timely manner. The changes are intended to enhance the efficiency of the judicial process related to bond forfeitures.