SB0171S03 | Indigent Defense Amendments

Description
General Description: 

This bill addresses indigent defense.

Highlighted Provisions: 

This bill creates the Youth Defense Fund to pay for indigent defense services for a minor referred to the juvenile court for an offense;

Bill Details
Year: 
2025
Status: 
Governor Signed
Last Action: 
Mar 25, 2025
Sponsor
Senator
Republican - District 8
Fiscal Note
Fiscal Note Amount: 
$0
None
Utah PTA Response
Utah PTA Position
Support
Impact on Children: 

This bill ensures that children in the juvenile justice system, particularly those who cannot afford legal representation, receive quality defense services. It establishes a fund to provide indigent defense for minors, protecting their rights and promoting fairness in court proceedings.

Commission: 
Safety
Utah PTA Public Policy Program
Utah PTA Legislative Policy: 

To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth.

Utah PTA Legislative Priorities: 

Support legislation, funding, and community partnerships that provide programs and resources to strengthen families and children’s social, emotional and physical learning and well-being including, but not limited to: juvenile justice reforms

National PTA and Utah PTA Position Statements: 

National PTA Position Statement - Child Safety and Protection

Promote initiatives to address racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic inequities in the juvenile justice system.