Bill Caption

Relating to a defendant's payment of costs associated with a court-appointed counsel.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

This bill would modify the process for people who, at the time of their sentencing to confinement or community supervision, did not have the financial means to pay the costs associated with the court-appointed council. If this bill passes, a judge could order an individual to pay any time during the individual’s sentence, but only after providing a written notice to the defendant to either pay or present information relevant to why the individual can’t make the payments. If the judge determines that the individual does have the ability to pay, the judge may order them to pay the entire amount or a portion of the amount owed. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

If an individual is found guilty of a crime and can’t afford to pay the costs at the time of conviction, it makes sense for a judge to be able to make the defendant pay those costs when they have the ability to pay. We support HB 2071 because it upholds our commitment to personal responsibility. Indigent defense should not be abused by people who can afford to pay those costs.