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Bill

HB 697

relative to witness fees in criminal cases.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Drago and 4 co-sponsors

HB 697 modifies witness compensation in New Hampshire criminal cases, currently under interim study to determine appropriate fee adjustments.

Committee Report: Referred to Interim Study; Vote 5-0; CC
0
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Bill Summary · HB 697

Legislative bill overview

HB 697 addresses witness fees paid to individuals who testify in New Hampshire criminal cases. The bill modifies the compensation structure, amounts, or processes related to how witnesses are reimbursed for their time and expenses when appearing in court. The specific amendments remain under committee review through an interim study process.

Why is this important

Witness fees directly affect the willingness of citizens to participate in the criminal justice system. Inadequate compensation can discourage participation, burden working people, and potentially impact case outcomes by reducing the availability of witnesses. This balance affects both defendants' ability to present evidence and prosecutors' ability to build cases.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to the state: Increasing witness fees raises government expenses, which may face resistance during budget constraints or from taxpayers concerned about criminal justice costs
  • Fairness and equity: Questions about whether current or proposed fee levels adequately compensate witnesses for lost wages, travel, and time, particularly for lower-income individuals
  • Scope of witnesses covered: Disagreement over which witness categories should receive fees (expert witnesses, fact witnesses, hostile witnesses, law enforcement) and at what rates

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

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