Texas HB5072 establishes standards for appointing counsel for indigent defendants in capital felony cases.

Texas HB5072 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to set new standards for appointing counsel for indigent defendants in capital felony cases. The bill requires that appointed attorneys have specific qualifications, including completion of continuing legal education in criminal defense and capital cases. It also mandates that local selection committees, appointed by administrative judges, review and approve attorneys for appointment. The changes apply to cases filed after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

Texas HB5072 establishes standards for appointing counsel for indigent defendants in capital felony cases.

Texas HB5072 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to set new standards for appointing counsel for indigent defendants in capital felony cases. The bill requires that appointed attorneys have specific qualifications, including completion of continuing legal education in criminal defense and capital cases. It also mandates that local selection committees, appointed by administrative judges, review and approve attorneys for appointment. The changes apply to cases filed after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.