Relating to the appointment of counsel for indigent defendants or juveniles in certain capital felony cases.

SB 2741 modifies how qualified lawyers are appointed for indigent defendants and juveniles in capital felony cases where the death penalty is sought. It establishes new standards requiring appointed attorneys to have at least five years of criminal law experience, trial experience in homicide or capital cases, and specific training in mental health evidence and mitigation. If a county cannot seek the death penalty due to a court ruling, the bill mandates that counsel be appointed using the same process applied to first-degree felony cases. The bill also creates local selection committees with judicial, bar association, and certified criminal law expert representation to oversee attorney appointments. These changes aim to ensure consistent access to qualified legal representation in high-stakes criminal cases.