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Bill

HB 2653

victims; disclosure requirements; witnesses; names

57th Legislature - First Regular Session Introduced by Neal Carter and 5 co-sponsors

Arizona law modified to adjust when victim and witness names must be disclosed to defendants in criminal cases, balancing witness protection against defense discovery rights.

Signed by Governor
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Bill Summary · HB 2653

Legislative bill overview

HB 2653 modifies Arizona's victim and witness disclosure requirements in criminal proceedings. The bill appears to establish or adjust rules governing when and how names of victims and witnesses must be disclosed to defense counsel and defendants during criminal cases.

Why is this important

These disclosure rules directly affect the balance between protecting vulnerable witnesses from intimidation or harassment and ensuring defendants have adequate information to mount a legal defense. The changes could impact how criminal cases proceed, witness safety, and due process considerations in Arizona courts.

Potential points of contention

  • Witness safety vs. defense rights: Restricting victim/witness name disclosure protects vulnerable individuals from potential retaliation but may limit defendants' ability to prepare comprehensive defenses or identify conflicts of interest
  • Scope of protection: Disagreement likely exists over which categories of witnesses warrant name protection (sexual assault victims, minors, human trafficking victims, etc.) and under what circumstances exceptions should apply
  • Implementation challenges: Courts may face practical difficulties determining when disclosure can be safely made, managing redacted discovery, and balancing competing interests in individual cases

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

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