HB 471 Summary

• Directs Division of Administrative Hearings to appoint an administrative law judge to determine equitable compensation for Brian Pitts for wrongful acts by the State of Florida, State Attorney's Office for the Sixth Judicial Circuit, and Pinellas County Sheriff's Office related to his practice of law from 2001-2010.

• Awards compensation between $1 million and $7 million to be paid proportionately by responsible parties and paid as lump sum or over no more than 10 years, with attorney fees and costs limited to 25% of the award.

• Declares null and void all final orders, judgments, decrees, and convictions in specified cases involving Mr. Pitts (cases SC06-1279, SC02-247, and others), citing separation of powers and the Legislature's authority over lay representation.

• Authorizes Mr. Pitts to practice law as a lay counselor or lay representative under multiple statutory designations and court rules, including representation under Chapters 120 and 44, power of attorney matters, and small claims proceedings.

• Directs Department of Law Enforcement to investigate alleged violations of criminal statutes by Florida Supreme Court justices, appellate judges, circuit judges, state attorneys, The Florida Bar, and Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, with charges to be brought before a grand jury in Leon County within 1 year.