Relative to the delivery of the mittimus in a criminal case.
Impact
By altering the existing provisions under RSA 622, SB313 would modify the roles and responsibilities of court clerks, sheriffs, and the corrections department regarding the transport and custody of inmates. The law would require court clerks to send mittimus orders directly to the commissioner of corrections or designated personnel rather than intermediaries. This change is intended to reinforce accountability and oversight in the process, potentially reducing miscommunication and errors in order handling.
Summary
Senate Bill 313 focuses on the processes related to the delivery of a mittimus in criminal cases in New Hampshire. A mittimus is a legal order issued by a court that directs law enforcement to take an individual into custody for imprisonment. This bill seeks to amend the current statutes concerning how and to whom a mittimus is delivered, ensuring more streamlined and secure transportation of individuals sentenced to the state department of corrections. The proposed changes aim to enhance both the clarity and efficiency of the judicial process as it relates to incarceration.
Contention
While the bill's proponents argue that these amendments will improve the efficiency and security of the inmate transportation process, there may be concerns regarding the practical implications of its implementation. Some stakeholders could question whether these changes might inadvertently complicate procedures or lead to increased workloads for court clerks and corrections personnel. Overall, SB313 could represent a significant shift in how legal documentation related to criminal sentencing is managed, with the potential for both positive and negative outcomes as it moves towards enactment.