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HB 1757

Compensation of court-appointed counsel.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 9 co-sponsors

Virginia increases court-appointed counsel compensation rates effective July 1, 2025, to improve legal representation quality for defendants unable to afford private attorneys.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0073)
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Bill Summary · HB 1757

Legislative bill overview

HB 1757 adjusts the compensation structure for court-appointed counsel in Virginia, increasing payment rates for public defenders and private attorneys assigned to criminal cases. The bill became effective July 1, 2025, and represents Virginia's effort to address longstanding concerns about inadequate attorney compensation in the criminal justice system.

Why is this important

Court-appointed counsel compensation directly affects the quality of legal defense available to defendants who cannot afford private attorneys—typically lower-income individuals. Inadequate pay rates can lead to attorney shortages, case backlogs, reduced case preparation time, and systemic inequities in the criminal justice system. Improving compensation helps attract and retain qualified legal professionals to serve vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to state budget: Increased attorney compensation requires additional public funding, which may compete with other state priorities during budget constraints
  • Implementation burden: Courts and public defender offices need time and resources to adapt payroll and case management systems to new rates
  • Rate adequacy debate: While the bill increases compensation, stakeholders may disagree on whether increases are sufficient to meaningfully improve attorney capacity and case quality across all judicial districts

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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