MI SB0425

Expands appellate defense services to include indigent youth in addition to indigent adults, with separate systems for each population.

Establishes a 9-member appellate defender commission with representatives from the courts, State Bar of Michigan, Michigan Indian Judicial Association, and two public members from the general public impacted by the justice system.

Requires the appellate defender office to handle at least 25% of all appellate defense cases for indigent adults and youth, with remaining cases assigned to locally appointed private counsel.

Establishes state reimbursement to local indigent defense systems: 50% of private counsel expenditures initially, then 100% of expenditures exceeding the local contribution after 3 years of compliance with state standards.

Takes effect October 1, 2024.