ATTORNEYS FOR INDIGENT DOMESTIC ABUSE VICTIMS

HB 57 guarantees low-income victims of domestic abuse the right to free legal representation in family court cases related to the abuse or abuser. It requires courts to inform victims at their first appearance about their right to choose an attorney or have one assigned, with legal costs covered by public funds. The bill establishes a process for courts to determine eligibility based on income and basic needs, and allows courts to contract with attorneys to provide these services. This directly affects domestic abuse victims navigating legal proceedings who cannot afford private counsel.