AB 1962: California Indigent Defense Commission.

Official summary

Legislative Counsel’s Digest (official, as of the latest version). Written by nonpartisan legislative staff; reproduced verbatim.

Existing law affords a defendant in a criminal case a federal and state constitutional right to have the assistance of counsel for the defendant’s defense. Under existing law, if the defendant in a criminal case is unable to employ counsel, the court is required to assign counsel to defend them, as specified.

Under existing law, one of the primary responsibilities of the State Public Defender is to engage in efforts to improve the quality of indigent defense. Existing law authorizes the State Public Defender to administer and award grants to improve indigent defense services.

This bill would state the intent of the Legislature to enact legislation that would establish the California Indigent Defense Commission, an entity responsible for ensuring that indigent defense services meet constitutional and professional standards.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. February 14, 2026From printer. May be heard in committee March 16.
2. February 13, 2026Read first time. To print.