SB248 Summary

• Amends Section 15-12-4 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to grant civil immunity to members of voluntary indigent defense advisory boards, affording them the same immunities as state agents under Section 36-1-12.

• Authorizes the Presiding Judge to designate another member of the judiciary from within the circuit to serve on the board if the Presiding Judge has a conflict of interest that prevents their service.

• Voluntary indigent defense advisory boards in each judicial circuit shall analyze and determine the method of indigent defense systems to be used, with the director able to appeal board determinations to the Indigent Defense Review Panel for final decision.

• Board composition consists of five members: the presiding circuit judge as chair, the president of the local circuit bar association, and three other attorneys selected by the bar commissioner, with membership reflecting racial, gender, and economic diversity.

• Act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.