Governor Baldacci Ceremonially Signs Bill to Establish Commission on Indigent Legal Services

Press Release

Governor John E. Baldacci today ceremonially signed LD 1132, An Act To Establish the Maine Commission on Indigent Legal Services.

The law establishes an independent commission responsible for the financing and operation of indigent services. Previously, a lawyer would be provided by the court to a person who is unable to afford his or her own representation and who is either a defendant in criminal proceedings, someone facing involuntary commitment, or at risk of losing parental rights. The commission will also have the ability to recommend ways to improve the quality of those services.

Governor Baldacci credited those involved in working on the legislation for helping Maine take an important step forward.

"A group of very dedicated individuals studied the way indigent legal services are currently provided," Governor Baldacci said. "They issued a valuable report with recommendations to alleviate some of the problems with the current system. This bill contains one of those important recommendations, ensuring that all Mainers - regardless of their ability to pay - have access to effective representation."

Governor Baldacci was joined at the ceremonial signing by bill sponsor Sen. Barry Hobbins (D-York), Chief Justice Leigh I. Saufley, Justice Robert W. Clifford, co-sponsors and supporters of the legislation.

The bill was passed as emergency legislation, meaning it went into effect with the Governor's signature on June 17.

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