State Representative Jordan Ridley (R-Woodstock) has expressed support for the House Judiciary Non-Civil Committee’s approval of House Bill 35, a measure he sponsored to change how private attorneys are compensated when appointed as District Attorney Pro Tempore.
“I am thankful to the members of the House Judiciary Non-Civil Committee for their favorable consideration of HB 35,” said Rep. Ridley. “This legislation would be a step toward more timely and fair convictions within our justice system. By guaranteeing that private attorneys are better compensated and encouraged to serve in cases where there are absent or disqualified district attorneys, the state could ensure that prosecutions continue efficiently and without unnecessary delay.”
The proposed bill would revise payment structures for private attorneys who substitute for district attorneys who are absent or disqualified. Under HB 35, these attorneys would be paid either $250 per certified hour worked or 90 percent of the monthly salary typically earned by a district attorney. Additionally, they could use private counsel, paralegals, or legal clerks, with compensation capped at $110 per hour. The executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of the State of Georgia would determine and certify all compensation.
The complete text of HB 35 is available online. The bill now moves to the House Rules Committee before it can be considered by the full House.
Burns, a Republican, was elected to represent Georgia’s 159th House District in 2005 after Ray Holland.
