§ 20-64-820 - Appointment of counsel.
20-64-820. Appointment of counsel.
(a) If it appears to the court that a person sought to be committed is in need of counsel, counsel shall be appointed immediately upon filing of the petition. Whenever legal counsel is appointed by the court, such court shall determine the amount of the fee, if any, to be paid the attorney so appointed and shall issue an order directing the payment. The amount allowed shall not exceed one hundred fifty dollars ($150) based upon the time and effort of the attorney and the investigation, preparation, and representation of the client at the court hearings. The court shall have the authority to appoint counsel on a pro bono basis.
(b) The quorum court of each county shall appropriate funds for the purpose of payment of the attorney's fees provided for by this subchapter and upon presentment of a claim accompanied by an order of the probate court fixing the fee, the same shall be approved by the county quorum court and shall be paid in the same manner as other claims against the county are paid.