HF 243 Iowa House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

A bill for an act relating to fees for attorneys appointed to provide indigent defense.

This bill increases hourly payment rates for court-appointed attorneys representing people who cannot afford legal help (indigent defendants) in Iowa. Starting July 1, 2025, attorneys will earn $126 per hour for class "A" felony cases (up from $86), $121 per hour for class "B" felonies (up from $81), and $116 per hour for all other cases (up from $76). The change directly affects public defenders and appointed lawyers handling these cases. The legislation aims to adjust compensation without altering the legal process or eligibility for indigent defense.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 6, 2025 Last action Feb 6, 2025