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Bill

Bill

A 5366

Relates to schemes to defraud and establishing the crime of harassment of a legal services client; repealer

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Catalina Cruz and 4 co-sponsors

Bill A 5366 protects legal services clients by establishing penalties for harassment and clarifying fraud definitions, ensuring a safer legal environment.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5366

Summary of Bill A 5366

Bill Number: A 5366
Title: Relates to schemes to defraud and establishing the crime of harassment of a legal services client; repealer
Status: Referred to Codes
Introduced: February 13, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5366 aims to address issues related to fraudulent schemes and the harassment of clients who seek legal services. The legislation seeks to enhance protections for individuals utilizing legal services by establishing specific criminal penalties for harassment and related fraudulent activities.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of New Crimes: The bill proposes the creation of a new crime specifically targeting the harassment of clients who are receiving legal services. This aims to protect vulnerable individuals from intimidation or coercion during legal proceedings.

  • Defining Schemes to Defraud: The bill includes provisions that clarify what constitutes a scheme to defraud, ensuring that legal definitions are updated and comprehensive to cover various fraudulent activities that may affect clients.

  • Repealer Clause: The bill contains a repealer that will eliminate outdated or redundant laws related to fraud and harassment, streamlining the legal framework and ensuring that only relevant statutes remain in effect.

Affected Parties

  • Legal Services Clients: Individuals seeking legal assistance will benefit from enhanced protections against harassment and fraudulent schemes.

  • Legal Professionals: Attorneys and legal service providers will need to be aware of the new definitions and penalties associated with harassment to ensure compliance and protect their clients.

  • Law Enforcement: The bill will require law enforcement agencies to adapt to the new definitions and enforcement mechanisms related to harassment of legal services clients.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of February 13, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.

  • Related Legislation: This bill is linked to Senate Bill S 4741, which serves as both a prior-session and companion bill, indicating ongoing legislative interest in this area.

Conclusion

Bill A 5366 represents a significant step towards enhancing the legal protections for clients of legal services by addressing harassment and fraudulent schemes. By establishing clear definitions and penalties, the bill aims to create a safer environment for individuals navigating the legal system. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, stakeholders will need to monitor its developments and implications closely.

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

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