Hawaii Senate Bill SR68

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Requesting The Judiciary To Conduct A Study On Existing Laws, Policies, And Procedures That Are Designed To Assist And Protect Pro Se Parties With Physical And Intellectual Disabilities.

Impact

The bill aims to mitigate the risks faced by pro se litigants, particularly those with disabilities, by understanding current protective frameworks and suggesting necessary improvements. It highlights the economic struggles that individuals with disabilities endure, often leading them to navigate the legal system without professional representation. By studying how existing structures function and where they might be lacking, the bill seeks to inform more effective legal policies that cater to these vulnerable groups.

Summary

Senate Resolution 68 (SR68) requests the Judiciary of Hawaii to conduct a comprehensive study on existing laws, policies, and procedures intended to assist and protect pro se parties with physical and intellectual disabilities. The resolution emphasizes the challenges these individuals face, especially in legal proceedings, where disparities in representation can lead to predatory behavior or abuse. With 19% of adults in Hawaii living with a disability, addressing these issues is deemed crucial to ensure fair treatment in the legal system.

Contention

Notably, the resolution draws attention to the vulnerability of people with disabilities in legal contexts, where lack of legal counsel can lead to further victimization. It mandates the Judiciary to report its findings and make recommendations for strengthening protections, which may include proposing new legislation. This approach shows an awareness of the systemic issues present in judicial processes and the need for ongoing advocacy and reform to safeguard the rights of pro se parties.