HB 23-1033

House Bill 23-1033, which has been approved by the governor and will take effect on August 7, 2023, updates Colorado’s law regarding legal representation for people who can't afford it. It allows the office responsible for providing defense attorneys to also hire other professionals when needed to ensure that indigent clients receive services comparable to those available to wealthier individuals. This bill affects anyone in Colorado who might need a public defender or similar legal aid. In practice, once effective, it will expand the types of support and expertise available to people receiving legal assistance from the state.

Official Summary

Current law directs the office of alternate defense counsel (office) to contract with attorneys and investigators to provide legal representation to clients who are indigent. The act directs the office to also contract with other persons who are necessary to provide legal services to persons who are indigent. The act requires that the legal services provided by attorneys and other persons must be commensurate with the legal services that persons who are not indigent receive. APPROVED by Governor March 3, 2023 EFFECTIVE August 7, 2023 NOTE: This act was passed without a safety clause and takes effect 90 days after sine die. (Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)

Votes