Relating to increasing the fee on conviction paid by a defendant for a peace officer committing or releasing the defendant.
Impact
The changes outlined in SB696 would directly affect the financial obligations of defendants, with specific attention to those convicted of either felonies or misdemeanors. This increase in fees could lead to a heightened financial burden on individuals within the justice system, particularly affecting those who may already be experiencing economic hardships. Proponents of the bill argue that the raised fees are warranted and necessary to support law enforcement and related judicial operations.
Summary
Senate Bill 696 proposes an increase in the fees that a defendant is obligated to pay upon conviction of an offense in Texas. The bill primarily focuses on the fees associated with the services performed by peace officers, specifically during the commitment or release of a defendant. The proposed legislation amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to raise fees for a range of services, including the issuance of notices, execution of arrest warrants, and the commitment or release of defendants.
Contention
While the bill is designed to bolster the revenue for peace officer services, it also raises questions regarding its potential impact on access to justice. Critics may argue that increasing fees could hinder defendants from pursuing their rights or may disproportionately affect lower-income individuals who might struggle to meet these financial obligations. The discussions around SB696 may delve into the balance between funding law enforcement and ensuring equitable access to the judicial system for all defendants.
Relating to the amount of the reimbursement fee paid by a defendant for a peace officer's services in executing or processing an arrest warrant, capias, or capias pro fine.
Relating to the amount of the reimbursement fee paid by a defendant for a peace officer's services in executing or processing an arrest warrant, capias, or capias pro fine.
Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the notice provided by peace officers to adult victims of family violence.
Relating to a hearing for an alleged violation of community supervision by a defendant and the manner in which that defendant is required to appear before the court.
Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the appointment of certain criminal law hearing officers; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the release on bail of certain defendants accused of committing a felony offense and the criminal consequences of committing a felony while released on bail for a prior felony; creating a criminal offense; increasing the minimum term of imprisonment for certain felonies; changing eligibility for deferred adjudication community supervision, mandatory supervision, and parole.
Relating to magistration proceedings for criminal defendants and the retention of related records, to services and representation provided to indigent criminal defendants and indigent juveniles, and to the governance and administration of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission.
Relating to court costs imposed on conviction and deposited to the courthouse security fund or the municipal court building security fund; increasing fees.