Connecticut Senate Bill SB00456

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/20
• Refer: 3/10/20

Caption

An Act Concerning The Establishment Of A Program To Provide Indigent Individuals With Access To Legal Services When Seeking A Restraining Order Under Section 46b-15 Of The General Statutes.

Impact

The establishment of this program is expected to significantly impact the judicial process surrounding restraining orders by making legal support more accessible to those who may not afford it. It introduces structured support through grants to nonprofit organizations, ensuring that individuals can receive guidance in completing applications and navigating court proceedings. By requiring that legal assistance includes prehearing conferences and hearings, the bill aims to improve the overall procedural outcomes for those applying for restraining orders. Additionally, the program is designed to collect data on its effectiveness, encompassing engagement metrics and legal service impacts, which will provide insights for potential improvements in access to justice.

Summary

Senate Bill 00456 aims to create a program providing legal services to indigent individuals seeking restraining orders under section 46b-15 of the general statutes. The bill establishes a grant initiative administered by a tax-exempt organization, utilizing funds from legal settlements received by the Attorney General's office. This initiative is intended to ensure that low-income individuals can access necessary legal resources when applying for restraining orders, thereby enhancing their ability to seek protection from potential harm. The program will prioritize nonprofit entities experienced in delivering legal services to such individuals.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for addressing the legal needs of disadvantaged populations, some concerns have arisen regarding the distribution of grants and the criteria used to qualify organizations for funding. Critics suggest that the bill should ensure a fair approach to awarding grants, emphasizing the obligation of selected nonprofits to deliver quality legal assistance and verify the indigency of clients effectively. Furthermore, discussions about the bill highlighted the need for potential oversight mechanisms to monitor the effectiveness of the program and ensure that financial resources are utilized efficiently to meet the intended goals of providing access to justice.