Texas Senate Bill SB414

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/28/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/7/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/18/09
• Voted on by House: 5/26/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/27/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to conducting by electronic means a hearing to determine a defendant's ability to discharge certain fines and court costs.

Impact

The implications of SB414 touch upon the efficiency and modernity of the judicial process in Texas. By permitting electronic participation, the bill addresses the need for flexibility in the judicial system, potentially reducing the burden on both defendants and the court system. It also reflects a growing trend towards utilizing technology to ensure that legal processes remain accessible and efficient, particularly in light of challenges posed by physical attendance in court due to location, health, or other personal factors.

Summary

SB414 proposes to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure to allow court hearings regarding a defendant's ability to discharge fines and court costs to be conducted via electronic means. The bill specifically states that defendants can appear either in person or through an electronic broadcast system, which includes secure Internet videoconferencing. This change aims to increase accessibility to court proceedings for defendants, particularly those who may face difficulties attending in person due to various circumstances. The objective is to maintain the integrity of hearings while accommodating modern communication methods.

Conclusion

Overall, SB414 not only modernizes the procedural landscape for handling hearings related to fines and court costs but also opens up discussions about the future of the judicial system in Texas. The success of this legislation could serve as a precedent for further technological adaptations in court proceedings, potentially enhancing overall efficiency while ensuring that defendants' rights are upheld in the evolving judicial process.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a step forward in making court proceedings more accessible, it might raise concerns regarding the adequacy of legal representation when defendants appear remotely. Questions might emerge about the ability of defendants to adequately participate in hearings and the perceptions of fairness in cases where technology is involved. Additionally, there may be apprehensions about ensuring the security and integrity of online communications and the potential for technical glitches that could affect the due process.