SB 174 Summary

• Directs the Division of Administrative Hearings to appoint a judge or special master to determine compensation for Brian Pitts for alleged wrongful acts by the State of Florida, the State Attorney's Office for the Sixth Judicial Circuit, and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office related to his unauthorized practice of law and incarcerations totaling nearly 12 months from 2001 to 2012.

• Authorizes an award of between $1 million and $7 million to be paid proportionately by the responsible parties, payable in lump sum or over up to 10 years, with attorney fees and costs limited to 25 percent of the total award.

• Voids all final orders, judgments, convictions, and liens in specified cases where Pitts was the defendant or respondent, and directs removal of all related court records and criminal history from public and private access.

• Authorizes Pitts to practice law as a lay counselor or lay representative under specified circumstances including representation under Chapter 120 and 44, power of attorney matters, and other Florida Supreme Court-authorized lay representation.

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