MS HB1197

Increases the number of authorized full-time legal assistants (assistant district attorneys) across 21 of Mississippi's 22 circuit court districts, with increases ranging from 1 to 4 additional positions per district, totaling approximately 40 new positions statewide

Authorizes district attorneys to employ part-time legal assistants subject to available funding, reversing the previous prohibition on part-time legal assistant positions; part-time assistants may not engage in private law practice

Authorizes one additional criminal investigator for the 13th Circuit Court District, increasing their total from two to three investigators, effective both before and after January 1, 2023

Maintains the existing provision allowing two additional legal assistants per district if funded through legislative appropriation or county board of supervisors resolution

Takes effect July 1, 2022