Georgia Senate Bill SB185

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/23
• Refer: 2/16/23
• Report Pass: 2/28/23

Caption

Assistant District Attorneys; appointment of additional assistant district attorneys in judicial circuits with multiple detention facilities; provide

Impact

Should SB185 be enacted, it would reorganize the staffing requirements for assistant district attorneys in Georgia's judicial circuits, particularly those with multiple detention locations. This change aims to bolster legal service delivery, ensuring that adequate legal representation and support is provided in line with the caseload demands posed by these facilities. By potentially increasing the number of assistant district attorneys, the bill seeks to promote more efficient processing of cases and a more organized judicial system.

Summary

Senate Bill 185 aims to amend Code Section 15-18-14 of the Official Code of Georgia to streamline the appointment of assistant district attorneys in judicial circuits that house multiple detention facilities. The bill proposes that for every three detention facilities or juvenile detention facilities within a judicial circuit, the district attorney must appoint one additional assistant district attorney, contingent on available funding or appropriations from the General Assembly. This initiative is intended to enhance legal oversight and the effectiveness of legal proceedings within such circuits.

Contention

While the bill has substantial support for its intent to improve judicial efficiency, there may be discussions regarding funding availability for these additional positions. Concerns may arise about the implications of increased appointments without guaranteed state funding, as well as how this can affect local budgets and financial planning for districts. Advocates may argue for the crucial need for such roles to address the demands of the judicial system, while critics could question the sustainability and effectiveness of this amendment in practice.