MS HB507

Amends Section 25-32-5 to require compensation of all county public defenders to be no less than the compensation of the district attorney, regardless of whether they represent one county, multiple counties, or an entire circuit court district.

Maintains prohibition on full-time public defenders and assistant public defenders from engaging in private law practice, while permitting part-time public defenders to engage in private practice if it does not involve criminal prosecution.

Requires public defenders be provided office space, secretarial assistance, and operating expenses at least equal to or greater than the county prosecuting attorney or district attorney.

Brings forward provisions establishing the Office of State Public Defender with divisions for Capital Defense Counsel, Indigent Appeals, and Public Defender Training, with funding from state appropriations and special funds.

Takes effect July 1, 2020.