Texas House Bill HB4464

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/20/09
• Voted on by House: 5/1/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/20/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/26/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/28/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to crime victim information in a criminal judgment.

Impact

The bill's enactment is expected to create a more structured approach to addressing crime victims' rights within the criminal justice system. By mandating that specific victim information is included in court judgments, it ensures a more transparent process for victims regarding their rights and the restitution they may be entitled to receive. This aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance the role of victims in the judicial process, thereby improving their overall experience and ensuring they have a more substantial voice.

Summary

House Bill 4464 focuses on improving the processing of crime victim information within criminal judgments. It aims to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure by ensuring that the judgment documents comprehensively cover specific victim-related details, including restitution orders and victim identification information. The bill seeks to elevate the consciousness of the judicial system towards the implications of crime on victims, providing clearer guidelines for how victims are compensated and recognized in legal proceedings.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB4464 may revolve around how the inclusion of extensive victim information in judgments impacts the overall efficiency of the court system. Concerns could arise regarding potential delays in the judicial process or increased administrative burdens on court staff. Additionally, some stakeholders might question the adequacy of the proposed measures to genuinely protect victim rights versus merely enhancing paperwork. There is likely an ongoing dialogue about best practices in balancing the needs of victims with the operational realities of the judicial system.