MS SB2790

Requires judges in justice court to appoint counsel for indigent defendants charged with misdemeanors, rather than leaving it discretionary as in other courts.

Sets maximum compensation for appointed attorneys in justice court misdemeanor cases at $400.00 per case.

Maintains existing compensation limits for other cases: $1,000 maximum in circuit court, $200 in non-record courts, and $2,000 in capital cases.

Effective date is July 1, 2024.