Indigent defendants; right to ex parte hearing for appointment of experts in capital cases. (SB369)

Introduced By

Sen. John Watkins (R-Midlothian)

Description

Indigent defendants; right to ex parte hearing for appointment of experts in capital cases. Provides that an indigent defendant who has been charged with a capital offense may move for the appointment of experts to assist in the preparation of his defense. The court shall hold an ex parte hearing on such a motion and may order the appointment of an expert. The expert's work product is protected by attorney-client privilege; however, the defendant shall comply with the discovery rules set forth in the Rules of the Supreme Court. This bill incorporates SB 111. Amends § 19.2-264.3:1.3 (“Expert assistance for indigent defendants in capital cases.”), of the Code of Virginia. View Full Text »

Outcome

No Richmond Sunlight visitors voted on this bill while voting was open.