H1619

03/08/2024 , Florida , Legislation , Other subject area

H1619: This bill would provide a right to counsel to respondents in risk protection order matters. A risk protection order is sought through a petition alleging that the respondent poses “a significant danger of causing personal injury to [their own self] or others by having in [their] custody or control, or by purchasing, possessing, or receiving, a firearm or any ammunition…” If the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the respondent poses a significant danger, it may enter a risk protection order against the respondent for up to 12 months that would require the respondent to surrender all firearms and ammunition in their possession. Specifically, the bill provides, “An indigent respondent is entitled to appointment of counsel to the same extent [as] as indigent person … in a felony criminal case.”

Last action (on 03/08/2024): Died in Criminal Justice Subcommittee