Texas House Bill HB1253

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to appointment of a grand jury.

Impact

The proposed modifications in HB 1253 are significant as they aim to streamline and standardize the grand jury appointment process. By allowing district judges more discretion in determining the adequacy of existing methods for appointing grand juries, this bill could lead to enhancements in the efficiency of the judicial process. Moreover, the bill introduces a safeguard mechanism whereby judges can appoint jury commissioners in specific circumstances, thus enhancing the flexibility of the jury selection process.

Summary

House Bill 1253 proposes amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure related to the appointment of grand juries in Texas. The bill outlines the methods by which a grand jury may be appointed, emphasizing that the process should be initiated by a district judge. Specifically, it mandates that a district judge could summon between 20 to 125 prospective jurors, following the same selection process as for civil cases. This aims to facilitate a more consistent and structured process in the selection of grand jurors across the state.

Contention

While the summary and overall purpose of HB 1253 appear beneficial for the judicial system, notable points of contention may arise regarding the potential implications for local legal practices. Critics may express concerns that the bill centralizes authority within the courts, limiting the ability of communities to influence or engage in the grand jury selection process. Furthermore, additional scrutiny could focus on the qualifications required for jury commissioners and whether the compensation structure outlined in the bill is sufficient to attract qualified individuals.