Florida H0507 mandates pro se defendants to question certain victims and witnesses through standby counsel in judicial proceedings.

Florida H0507 introduces special protections in judicial proceedings by requiring pro se defendants to communicate questions to victims or witnesses under 18, individuals with intellectual disabilities, or sexual offense victims through standby counsel. This applies at any trial, hearing, or deposition. The bill specifies that the court must mandate this upon motion by any party, a parent, guardian, attorney, guardian ad litem, or other court-appointed advocate, or on its own motion. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Florida H0507 mandates pro se defendants to question certain victims and witnesses through standby counsel in judicial proceedings.

Florida H0507 introduces special protections in judicial proceedings by requiring pro se defendants to communicate questions to victims or witnesses under 18, individuals with intellectual disabilities, or sexual offense victims through standby counsel. This applies at any trial, hearing, or deposition. The bill specifies that the court must mandate this upon motion by any party, a parent, guardian, attorney, guardian ad litem, or other court-appointed advocate, or on its own motion. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.