The bill aims to clarify the use of self-defense in criminal cases and introduces provisions for the reimbursement of legal costs and the expungement of records for individuals found not guilty or whose charges are dismissed due to the reasonable use of defensive force. Specifically, it establishes that counties must reimburse individuals for reasonable costs incurred during their defense, including attorney fees and expenses related to seeking expungement. Additionally, it mandates that courts expunge records associated with such cases, ensuring that individuals are treated as if they were never arrested or prosecuted.

To support these changes, the bill includes new definitions and amendments to existing laws, such as defining "criminal prosecution" and "expungement," and clarifying the criteria for determining the reasonable use of force in self-defense. It also outlines the process for filing petitions for reimbursement and expungement, including the requirement for no filing fees and the procedures for objections and hearings. The bill is designed to enhance protections for individuals asserting self-defense while ensuring that their legal records are cleared when appropriate.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 6-2-601, 6-2-602