MS HB303

Amends Section 25-31-5, Mississippi Code of 1972, to increase the number of full-time legal assistants authorized in the First Circuit Court District from eight (8) to nine (9).

Additional legal assistants may be authorized in all 22 circuit court districts if the Legislature appropriates funds or if county boards of supervisors adopt resolutions to pay their salaries and benefits.

District attorneys may employ additional legal assistants or criminal investigators beyond authorized limits if federal funds are available to cover all costs, with funds transferred through the Department of Finance and Administration.

County boards of supervisors may pay all or part of the salary, supplemental pay, expenses, and fringe benefits for district attorneys or legal assistants in their circuit court districts.

Effective date: July 1, 2010.