LA HB277

Indigent defendants determined under R.S. 15:175 have the right to court-appointed counsel from initial appearance through case conclusion, unless they choose to hire private counsel

Courts must appoint qualified counsel for indigent defendants at preliminary examinations

Preliminary examination transcripts must be promptly provided to state or defense counsel upon motion

Transcript preparation costs are paid by the requesting party, except indigent defendants are exempt from payment

Amends Code of Criminal Procedure Articles 230.1(B), 293, and 294(D)