Louisiana Senate Bill SB605

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 4/6/10
• Engrossed: 4/13/10
• Refer: 4/14/10
• Report Pass: 5/13/10
• Enrolled: 6/1/10
• Chaptered: 6/9/10
• Passed: 6/9/10

Caption

Provides for an indigent transcript fund for the Twenty-Fourth Judicial District Court. (See Act)

Impact

The bill creates a financially-supported framework for delivering transcripts in cases where defendants cannot afford the associated costs. It establishes a committee that will set additional costs not exceeding two dollars against defendants convicted in criminal cases. The revenue generated from these fees will be managed and directed to support court reporter fees for indigent defendants. This initiative is anticipated to relieve financial burdens on courts and ensure compliance with justice standards, promoting equality under the law.

Summary

Senate Bill 605 establishes an indigent transcript fund specifically for the Twenty-Fourth Judicial District Court in Louisiana. The legislation amends existing laws concerning how court reporter fees are managed, particularly in cases involving indigent defendants. By setting up this fund, the bill aims to ensure that individuals unable to afford court reporter fees in criminal proceedings still receive necessary transcripts, thereby promoting fair access to justice. The bill outlines the fees that court reporters may charge for transcripts and clarifies funding responsibilities between the parish and the court system.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 605 appears to be supportive among stakeholders advocating for indigent defense rights, as it addresses a significant barrier for low-income defendants requiring transcripts for fair trial purposes. However, some concerns may arise from those who argue about the sufficiency of the funding model and whether it will effectively support all necessary cases without overwhelming the existing judicial budget or passing additional costs onto defendants.

Contention

There is contention regarding the responsibility for transcript costs and the potential imposition of fees on convicted defendants, which could be viewed as an additional financial burden on already vulnerable populations. Critics may express concern regarding the effectiveness of the funding system to adequately cover all potential costs. This bill's passage indicates a shift towards ensuring that justice is accessible, albeit with discussions necessary to balance funding and equitable treatment for defendants.