Gov. DeSantis signs bill fortifying rights for crime victims
Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a multi-prong measure to bolster crime victims’ rights.
The proposal (SB 1012), signed Thursday, would require law enforcement to inform crime victims of their right to counsel. It would also encourage the Florida Bar to develop a list of attorneys willing to work pro bono for crime victims.
The measure, set to take effect July 1, passed the House and Senate unanimously this Session. Zephyrhills Republican Sen. Danny Burgess sponsored the bill, and Lakeland Republican Rep. Colleen Burton sponsored the House version.
The bill contains a slew of secondary provisions. Among others, it would clarify state law by saying crime victims may “upon request” attend or be he...
