MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

2014 Regular Session

To: Judiciary A; Appropriations

By: Representative Baker

House Bill 1026

AN ACT TO BRING FORWARD SECTIONS 9-5-3 THROUGH 9-5-58, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH PROVIDE FOR CHANCERY COURT DISTRICTS AND CHANCELLORSHIPS FOR PURPOSES OF AMENDMENT; TO BRING FORWARD SECTIONS 9-7-3 THROUGH 9-7-57, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH PROVIDE FOR CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICTS AND JUDGESHIPS FOR PURPOSES OF AMENDMENT; TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 25-31-5, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH PROVIDES LEGAL ASSISTANTS FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEYS FOR PURPOSES OF AMENDMENT; TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 25-31-10, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH PROVIDES CRIMINAL INVESTIGATORS FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEYS FOR PURPOSES OF AMENDMENT; TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 99-36-7, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH PROVIDES VICTIM ASSISTANCE COORDINATORS FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEYS FOR PURPOSES OF AMENDMENT; TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 23-15-977, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH PROVIDES THE QUALIFYING DEADLINE AND QUALIFYING FEES FOR JUDICIAL CANDIDATES, FOR THE PURPOSE OF AMENDMENT; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:

SECTION 1. Section 9-5-3, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-3. (1) The state shall be divided into an appropriate number of chancery court districts, severally numbered and comprised of the counties as set forth in the sections which follow. A court to be styled "The Chancery Court of the County of ____" shall be held in each county, and within each judicial district of a county having two (2) judicial districts, at least twice a year. From and after January 1, 1995, the dates upon which court shall be held in chancery court districts consisting of a single county shall be the same dates state agencies and political subdivisions are open for business excluding legal holidays. The dates upon which terms shall commence and the number of days for which terms shall continue in chancery court districts consisting of more than one (1) county shall be set by order of the chancellor in accordance with the provisions of subsection (2) of this section. A matter in court may extend past such terms if the interest of justice so requires.

(2) An order establishing the commencement and continuation of terms of court for each of the counties within a chancery court district consisting of more than one (1) county shall be entered annually and not later than October 1 of the year immediately preceding the calendar year for which such terms of court are to become effective. Notice of the dates upon which the terms of court shall commence and the number of days for which such terms shall continue in each of the counties within a chancery court district shall be posted in the office of the chancery clerk of each county within the district and mailed to the office of the Secretary of State for publication and distribution to all members of the Mississippi Bar. In the event that an order is not timely entered as herein provided, the terms of court for each of the counties within any such chancery court district shall remain unchanged for the next calendar year.

(3) The number of chancellorships for each chancery court district shall be determined by the Legislature based upon the following criteria:

(a) The population of the district;

(b) The number of cases filed in the district;

(d) The geographic area of the district;

(e) An analysis of the needs of the district by the court personnel of the district; and

(f) Any other appropriate criteria.

(4) The Judicial College of the University of Mississippi Law Center and the Administrative Office of Courts shall determine the appropriate:

(a) Specific data to be collected as a basis for applying the above criteria;

(b) Method of collecting and maintaining the specified data; and

(5) In a district having more than one (1) office of chancellor, there shall be no distinction whatsoever in the powers, duties and emoluments of those offices except that the chancellor who has been for the longest time continuously a chancellor of that court or, should no chancellor have served longer in office than the others, the chancellor who has been for the longest time a member of the Mississippi Bar, shall be the senior chancellor. The senior chancellor shall have the right to assign causes and dockets and to set terms in districts consisting of more than one (1) county.

SECTION 2. Section 9-5-5, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-5. The First Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Alcorn County;

(b) Itawamba County;

(d) Monroe County;

(e) Pontotoc County;

(f) Prentiss County;

(g) Tishomingo County; and

(h) Union County.

SECTION 3. Section 9-5-7, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-7. (1) There shall be four (4) chancellors for the First Chancery Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the four (4) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two," "Place Three" and "Place Four." The chancellor to fill Place One shall be a resident of Alcorn, Prentiss or Tishomingo County. The chancellors to fill Place Two and Place Three shall be a resident of Itawamba, Lee, Monroe, Pontotoc or Union County. The chancellor to fill Place Four shall be a resident of any county in the district. Election of the four (4) offices of chancellor shall be by election to be held in every county within the First Chancery Court District of Mississippi.

SECTION 4. Section 9-5-9, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-9. The Second Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Jasper County;

(b) Newton County; and

SECTION 5. Section 9-5-11, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-11. (1) The Third Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) DeSoto County;

(b) Grenada County;

(d) Panola County;

(e) Tate County; and

(f) Yalobusha County.

(2) The Third Chancery Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 3-1 shall consist of DeSoto County.

(b) Subdistrict 3-2 shall consist of Grenada County, Montgomery County, Panola County, Tate County and Yalobusha County.

SECTION 6. Section 9-5-13, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-13. (1) There shall be three (3) chancellors for the Third Chancery Court District.

(2) (a) The chancellor of Subdistrict 3-1 shall be elected from DeSoto County. The two (2) chancellors of Subdistrict 3-2 shall be elected from Grenada County, Montgomery County, Panola County, Tate County and Yalobusha County.

(b) For purposes of appointment and election, the three (3) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct. The chancellorship in Subdistrict 3-1 shall be denominated only as "Place One," and the chancellorships in Subdistrict 3-2 shall be denominated only as "Place Two" and "Place Three."

SECTION 7. Section 9-5-15, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-15. The Fourth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Amite County;

(b) Franklin County;

(d) Walthall County.

SECTION 8. Section 9-5-17, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-17. (1) The Fifth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of Hinds County.

(2) The Fifth Chancery Court District shall be divided into the following four (4) subdistricts:

(a) Subdistrict 5-1 shall consist of the following precincts in Hinds County: Precincts 33, 34, 35, 36, 44, 45, 46, 78, 79, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 92, 93, 96, 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 32, 47 and 97.

(b) Subdistrict 5-2 shall consist of the following precincts in Hinds County: Precincts 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 85, Brownsville, Cynthia, Pocahontas and Tinnin Precincts.

(c) Subdistrict 5-3 shall consist of the following precincts in Hinds County: Precincts 21, 22, 25, 31, 86, 58, 59, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 89, 24, 26, 54, 55, 56, 57, 60, 61, 62, 18, 19, 20, 50, 51, 52, 53, 63 and 64.

(d) Subdistrict 5-4 shall consist of the following precincts in Hinds County: Precincts 94, 95, 87, 88, 90 and 91, Bolton, Edwards, Pine Haven, Utica 1, Utica 2, Byram, Cayuga, Learned, Clinton 1, Clinton 2, Clinton 3, Clinton 4, Clinton 5, Clinton 6, Raymond 1, Raymond 2, Spring Ridge, St. Thomas, Old Byram, Terry, Chapel Hill and Dry Grove Precincts.

SECTION 9. Section 9-5-19, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-19. (1) There shall be four (4) chancellors for the Fifth Chancery Court District. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from each subdistrict.

(2) While there shall be no limitation whatsoever upon the powers and duties of the said chancellors other than as cast upon them by the Constitution and laws of this state, the court in the First Judicial District of Hinds County, in the discretion of the senior chancellor, may be divided into four (4) divisions as a matter of convenience by the entry of an order upon the minutes of the court.

SECTION 10. Section 9-5-21, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-21. The Sixth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Attala County;

(b) Carroll County;

(d) Kemper County;

(e) Neshoba County; and

(f) Winston County.

SECTION 11. Section 9-5-22, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-22. (1) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Sixth Chancery Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 12. Section 9-5-23, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-23. (1) The Seventh Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Bolivar County;

(b) Coahoma County;

(d) Quitman County;

(e) Tallahatchie County; and

(f) Tunica County.

(2) The Seventh Chancery Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 7-1 shall consist of Bolivar County and Coahoma County;

(b) Subdistrict 7-2 shall consist of Leflore County, Quitman County, Tallahatchie County and Tunica County.

SECTION 13. Section 9-5-25, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

[Until January 1, 2011, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-25. There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Seventh Chancery Court District. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from each subdistrict.

[From and after January 1, 2011, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-25. There shall be three (3) chancellors for the Seventh Chancery Court District. The three (3) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from Subdistrict 7-1 and shall be denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," and two (2) chancellors shall be elected from Subdistrict 7-2 and shall be denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place Two" and "Place Three."

SECTION 14. Section 9-5-27, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-27. The Eighth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Hancock County;

(b) Harrison County; and

SECTION 15. Section 9-5-29, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-29. (1) There shall be four (4) chancellors for the Eighth Chancery Court District.

(3) While there shall be no limitation whatsoever upon the powers and duties of said chancellors other than as cast upon them by the Constitution and laws of this state, the court in the Eighth Chancery Court District, in the discretion of the senior chancellor, may be divided into four (4) divisions as a matter of convenience by the entry of an order upon the minutes of the court.

SECTION 16. Section 9-5-31, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-31. (1) The Ninth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Humphreys County;

(b) Issaquena County;

(d) Sunflower County;

(e) Warren County; and

(f) Washington County.

(2) The Ninth Chancery Court District shall be divided into three (3) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 9-1 shall consist of the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Sunflower County: Indianola 3 North, Indianola 3 South, Ruleville, Boyer-Linn, Fairview-Hale, Rome, Sunflower Plantation, Drew and Ruleville North Precincts; and

(ii) Washington County: Buster Brown Community Center, Extension Building, Faith Lutheran Church, Brent Center, William Percy Library, American Legion, Metcalf City Hall, Elks Club, Leland Health Department Clinic, Leland Light and Water Plant and Greenville Industrial College Precincts.

(b) Subdistrict 9-2 shall consist of Humphreys County and the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Sunflower County: Inverness, Indianola 1, Moorhead, Indianola 2 West, Indianola 2 East, Sunflower, Indianola 3 Northeast and Doddsville Precincts; and

(ii) Washington County: St. James Episcopal Church, Swiftwater Baptist Church, Glen Allan Health Clinic, Italian Club, Ward's Recreation Center, Avon Health Center, Arcola City Hall, Kapco Co., Hollandale City Hall, Darlove Baptist Church, Mangelardi Bourbon Store and Grace Methodist Church Precincts.

SECTION 17. Section 9-5-33, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-33. There shall be three (3) chancellors for the Ninth Chancery Court District. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 18. Section 9-5-35, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-35. The Tenth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Forrest County;

(b) Lamar County;

(d) Pearl River County; and

(e) Perry County.

SECTION 19. Section 9-5-36, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-36. (1) There shall be four (4) chancellors for the Tenth Chancery Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the four (4) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two," "Place Three" and "Place Four." The chancellor to fill Place One and Place Four shall be a resident of any county in the district. The chancellor to fill Place Two shall be a resident of Lamar, Marion, Pearl River or Perry County. The chancellor to fill Place Three shall be a resident of Forrest County. Election of the four (4) offices of chancellor shall be by election to be held in every county within the Tenth Chancery Court District of Mississippi.

SECTION 20. Section 9-5-37, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-37. (1) The Eleventh Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Holmes County;

(b) Leake County;

(d) Yazoo County.

(2) The Eleventh Chancery Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 11-1 shall consist of Holmes County, Yazoo County and Canton Precinct 4, Canton Precinct 5, Smith School, Magnolia Heights and Flora Precincts of Madison County;

(b) Subdistrict 11-2 shall consist of Leake County and Farmhaven, Madisonville, Trace Harbor, Canton Precinct 1, Canton Precinct 2, Canton Precinct 3, Canton Precinct 6, Cameron Street, Bear Creek, Madison, Ridgeland, Gluckstadt, Lorman/Cavalier, Virlilia, Cameron, Couparle, Camden and Sharon Precincts of Madison County.

SECTION 21. Section 9-5-38, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-38. There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Eleventh Chancery Court District. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 22. Section 9-5-39, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-39. The Twelfth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Clarke County; and

(b) Lauderdale County.

SECTION 23. Section 9-5-40, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-40. (1) There shall be two (2) judges for the Twelfth Chancery Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 24. Section 9-5-41, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-41. (1) The Thirteenth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Covington County;

(b) Jefferson Davis County;

(d) Simpson County; and

(e) Smith County.

(2) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Thirteenth Chancery Court District. For purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 25. Section 9-5-43, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-43. (1) The Fourteenth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Chickasaw County;

(b) Clay County;

(d) Noxubee County;

(e) Oktibbeha County; and

(f) Webster County.

(2) The Fourteenth Chancery Court District shall be divided into three (3) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 14-1 shall consist of Chickasaw County, Webster County and the following precincts in Oktibbeha County: West Starkville, Adaton, North Longview, Self Creek, Double Springs, Northeast Starkville, East Starkville, North Starkville, Maben, South Starkville, South Longview, Craig Springs, Bradley, Center Grove and Sturgis Precincts.

(b) Subdistrict 14-2 shall consist of the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Clay County: Vinton, East West Point, Siloam, Central West Point, South West Point and Cedar Bluff Precincts; and

(ii) Lowndes County: Caledonia, Steens A, Steens B, Caldwell, Stokes Beard B, Fairview, Sale, Rural Hill B, Lee High, Brandon, Franklin, Air Base A, Air Base B, Air Base C, Steens C, Rural Hill A, New Hope A, Mitchell, New Hope B, Union Academy A and University A Precincts.

(i) Clay County: North West Point, Union Star, Tibbee, Cairo, Caradine, Una, West West Point, Pheba and Pine Bluff Precincts;

(ii) Lowndes County: Stokes Beard A, Fair Grounds, Coleman, Plum Grove A, Crawford A, Hunt B, Hunt A, Union Academy B, University B, West Lowndes, Artesia, Mayhew, Crawford B, Crawford C, New Hope C and Plum Grove B Precincts; and

(iii) Oktibbeha County: Osborn, Hickory Grove, Bell Schoolhouse, Central Starkville, Gillespie Street Center, Sessums and Oktoc Precincts.

SECTION 26. Section 9-5-45, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-45. There shall be three (3) chancellors for the Fourteenth Chancery Court District. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 27. Section 9-5-47, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-47. The Fifteenth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Copiah County; and

(b) Lincoln County.

SECTION 28. Section 9-5-49, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-49. The Sixteenth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) George County;

(b) Greene County; and

SECTION 29. Section 9-5-50, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-50. (1) There shall be three (3) chancellors for the Sixteenth Chancery Court District.

(2) For the purposes of appointment and election, the three (3) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two" and "Place Three."

SECTION 30. Section 9-5-51, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-51. (1) The Seventeenth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Adams County;

(b) Claiborne County;

(d) Wilkinson County.

(2) The Seventeenth Chancery Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 17-1 shall consist of Claiborne County, Jefferson County, and the following precincts in Adams County: Maryland Heights, Palestine, Northside School, Thompson, Pine Ridge, Airport, Anchorage and Washington Precincts.

(b) Subdistrict 17-2 shall consist of Wilkinson County and the following precincts in Adams County: Courthouse, By-Pass Fire Station, Cloverdale, Bellemont, Carpenter No. 1, Duncan Park, Beau Pre, Kingston, Concord, Liberty Park, Morgantown and Oakland Precincts.

(3) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Seventeenth Chancery Court District. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 31. Section 9-5-53, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-53. The Eighteenth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Benton County;

(b) Calhoun County;

(d) Marshall County; and

(e) Tippah County.

SECTION 32. Section 9-5-54, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-54. (1) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Eighteenth Chancery Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 33. Section 9-5-55, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-55. The Nineteenth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Jones County; and

(b) Wayne County.

SECTION 34. Section 9-5-57, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-57. The Twentieth Chancery Court District shall be comprised of Rankin County.

SECTION 35. Section 9-5-58, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-5-58. There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Twentieth Chancery Court District. For purposes of appointment and election the two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 36. Section 9-7-3, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-3. (1) The state is divided into an appropriate number of circuit court districts severally numbered and comprised of the counties as set forth in the sections which follow. A court to be styled "The Circuit Court of the County of ____" shall be held in each county, and within each judicial district of a county having two (2) judicial districts, at least twice a year. From and after January 1, 1995, the dates upon which court shall be held in circuit court districts consisting of a single county shall be the same dates state agencies and political subdivisions are open for business excluding legal holidays. The dates upon which terms shall commence and the number of days for which such terms shall continue in circuit court districts consisting of more than one (1) county shall be set by order of the circuit court judge in accordance with the provisions of subsection (2) of this section. A matter in court may extend past such times if the interest of justice so requires.

(2) An order establishing the commencement and continuation of terms of court for each of the counties within a circuit court district consisting of more than one (1) county shall be entered annually and not later than October 1 of the year immediately preceding the calendar year for which such terms of court are to become effective. Notice of the dates upon which the terms of court shall commence and the number of days for which such terms shall continue in each of the counties within a circuit court district shall be posted in the office of the circuit clerk of each county within the district and mailed to the office of the Secretary of State for publication and distribution to all members of The Mississippi Bar. In the event that an order is not timely entered as herein provided, the terms of court for each of the counties within any such circuit court district shall remain unchanged for the next calendar year. A certified copy of any order entered under the provisions of this subsection shall, immediately upon the entry thereof, be delivered to the clerk of the board of supervisors in each of the counties within the circuit court district.

(3) The number of judges in each circuit court district shall be determined by the Legislature based upon the following criteria:

(a) The population of the district;

(b) The number of cases filed in the district;

(d) The geographic area of the district;

(e) An analysis of the needs of the district by the court personnel of the district; and

(f) Any other appropriate criteria.

(4) The Judicial College of the University of Mississippi Law Center and the Administrative Office of Courts shall determine the appropriate:

(a) Specific data to be collected as a basis for applying the above criteria;

(b) Method of collecting and maintaining the specified data; and

(5) In a district having more than one (1) office of circuit judge, there shall be no distinction whatsoever in the powers, duties and emoluments of those offices except that the judge who has been for the longest time continuously a judge of that court or, should no judge have served longer in office than the others, the judge who has been for the longest time a member of The Mississippi Bar, shall be the senior judge. The senior judge shall have the right to assign causes and dockets and to set terms in districts consisting of more than one (1) county. A circuit court judge shall have the right to assign criminal matters to county court as provided in Section 9-9-21.

SECTION 37. Section 9-7-5, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-5. The First Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Alcorn County;

(b) Itawamba County;

(d) Monroe County;

(e) Pontotoc County;

(f) Prentiss County; and

(g) Tishomingo County.

SECTION 38. Section 9-7-7, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-7. (1) There shall be four (4) judges for the First Circuit Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the four (4) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two," "Place Three" and "Place Four." The judge to fill Place One shall be a resident of Alcorn, Prentiss or Tishomingo County. The judges to fill Place Two and Place Three shall be a resident of Itawamba, Lee, Monroe or Pontotoc County. The judge to fill Place Four shall be a resident of any county in the district. Election of the four (4) offices of judge shall be by election to be held in every county within the First Circuit Court District.

SECTION 39. Section 9-7-9, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-9. The Second Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Hancock County;

(b) Harrison County; and

SECTION 40. Section 9-7-11, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-11. (1) There shall be four (4) circuit judges for the Second Circuit Court District.

(2) For the purposes of appointment and election the four (4) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two," "Place Three" and "Place Four."

SECTION 41. Section 9-7-13, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-13. The Third Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Benton County;

(b) Calhoun County;

(d) Lafayette County;

(e) Marshall County;

(f) Tippah County; and

(g) Union County.

SECTION 42. Section 9-7-14, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-14. (1) There shall be three (3) circuit judges for the Third Circuit Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the three (3) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two" and "Place Three." The judge to fill "Place One" shall be a resident of Calhoun, Chickasaw, Lafayette or Union Counties. The judge to fill "Place Two" shall be a resident of Benton, Marshall or Tippah County. The judge to fill "Place Three" shall be a resident of any county in the district.

SECTION 43. Section 9-7-15, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-15. (1) The Fourth Circuit Court District shall be composed of the following counties:

(a) Leflore County;

(b) Sunflower County; and

(2) The Fourth Circuit Court District shall be divided into four (4) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 4-1 shall consist of the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Leflore County: Minter City, North Greenwood, Money, Northeast Greenwood, Schlater, West Greenwood, Mississippi Valley State University and Southeast Greenwood Precincts; and

(ii) Sunflower County: Ruleville, Rome, Sunflower Plantation, Drew, Doddsville, Boyer-Linn, Fairview-Hale and Ruleville North Precincts.

(b) Subdistrict 4-2 shall consist of the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Sunflower County: Indianola 1, Sunflower, Indianola 3 North, Indianola 3 South and Indianola 3 Northeast Precincts; and

(ii) Washington County: Extension Building, Faith Lutheran Church, American Legion, Metcalfe City Hall, Elks Club, Leland Health Department Clinic, Leland Light and Water Plant and Greenville Industrial College Precincts.

(i) Leflore County: East Greenwood Sub-A, East Greenwood Sub-B, Central Greenwood, North Itta Bena, South Itta Bena, Southwest Greenwood, Rising Sun, Sidon, Morgan City, Swiftown and South Greenwood Precincts;

(ii) Sunflower County: Moorhead, Inverness, Indianola 2 West and Indianola 2 East Precincts; and

(iii) Washington County: Arcola City Hall, Hollandale City Hall, Darlove Baptist Church and Mangelardi Bourbon Store Precincts.

(d) Subdistrict 4-4 shall consist of the following precincts in Washington County: St. James Episcopal Church, Swiftwater Baptist Church, Glen Allan Health Clinic, Italian Club, Ward's Recreation Center, Buster Brown Community Center, Avon Health Center, Kapco Company, Brent Center, William Percy Library and Grace Methodist Church Precincts.

(3) The local contributions required for the maintenance of the Fourth Circuit Court District shall be paid on a pro rata basis each by Leflore, Sunflower and Washington Counties.

SECTION 44. Section 9-7-17, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-17. There shall be four (4) circuit judges for the Fourth Circuit Court District. One (1) circuit judge shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 45. Section 9-7-19, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-19. The Fifth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Attala County;

(b) Carroll County;

(d) Grenada County;

(e) Montgomery County;

(f) Webster County; and

(g) Winston County.

SECTION 46. Section 9-7-20, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-20. (1) There shall be two (2) judges for the Fifth Circuit Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 47. Section 9-7-21, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-21. (1) The Sixth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Adams County;

(b) Amite County;

(d) Wilkinson County.

(2) The Sixth Circuit Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 6-1 shall consist of Wilkinson County and the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Adams County: Courthouse, By-Pass Fire Station, Cloverdale, Carpenter No. 1, Concord, Maryland Heights, Northside School, Thompson, Pine Ridge, Airport and Anchorage Precincts; and

(ii) Amite County: Gloster, Ariel, Homochitto, Crosby, East Centreville, Street and Berwick Precincts.

(b) Subdistrict 6-2 shall consist of Franklin County, all of Amite County except Gloster, Ariel, Homochitto, Crosby, East Centreville, Street and Berwick Precincts and the following precincts in Adams County: Bellemont, Duncan Park, Beau Pre, Kingston, Liberty Park, Palestine, Morgantown, Oakland and Washington Precincts.

(3) There shall be two (2) circuit judges for the Sixth Circuit Court District. One (1) judge shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 48. Section 9-7-23, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-23. (1) The Seventh Circuit Court District shall be comprised of Hinds County.

(2) The Seventh Circuit Court District shall be divided into four (4) subdistricts in Hinds County as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 7-1 shall consist of the following precincts in Hinds County: Precincts 33, 34, 35, 36, 44, 45, 46, 78, 79, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 92, 93, 96, 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 32, 47 and 97.

(b) Subdistrict 7-2 shall consist of the following precincts in Hinds County: Precincts 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 85, Brownsville, Cynthia, Pocahontas and Tinnin Precincts.

(c) Subdistrict 7-3 shall consist of the following precincts in Hinds County: Precincts 21, 22, 25, 31, 86, 58, 59, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 89, 24, 26, 54, 55, 56, 57, 60, 61, 62, 18, 19, 20, 50, 51, 52, 53, 63 and 64.

(d) Subdistrict 7-4 shall consist of the following precincts in Hinds County: Precincts 94, 95, 87, 88, 90 and 91, Bolton, Edwards, Pine Haven, Utica 1, Utica 2, Byram, Cayuga, Learned, Clinton 1, Clinton 2, Clinton 3, Clinton 4, Clinton 5, Clinton 6, Raymond 1, Raymond 2, Spring Ridge, St. Thomas, Old Byram, Terry, Chapel Hill and Dry Grove Precincts.

SECTION 49. Section 9-7-25, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-25. (1) There shall be four (4) circuit judges for the Seventh Circuit Court District. One (1) judge shall be elected from each subdistrict.

(2) While there shall be no limitation whatsoever upon the powers and duties of the said judges other than as cast upon them by the Constitution and laws of this state, the court in the First Judicial District of Hinds County, in the discretion of the senior circuit judge, may be divided into civil and criminal divisions as a matter of convenience, by the entry of an order upon the minutes of the court.

SECTION 50. Section 9-7-27, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-27. (1) The Eighth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Leake County;

(b) Neshoba County;

(d) Scott County.

(2) There shall be two (2) judges for the Eighth Circuit Court District. The initial term for the second judgeship created under this section shall begin on the effective date of Laws, 1997, Ch. 378, and shall end at the same time as for circuit judges generally.

(3) For purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 51. Section 9-7-29, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-29. (1) The Ninth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Issaquena County;

(b) Sharkey County; and

(2) The Ninth Circuit Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 9-1 shall consist of Issaquena County, Sharkey County and the following precincts in Warren County: St. Aloysius, Kings, Cedar Grove, Waltersville, Auditorium, Brunswick, Vicksburg Junior High School and American Legion Precincts.

(b) Subdistrict 9-2 shall consist of the following precincts in Warren County: Oak Ridge, Bovina, Culkin, Redwood, Number 7 Firestation, Jett, Elks Lodge, Goodrum, Yokena, Plumbers Hall, Y.M.C.A., Moose Lodge and Tingleville Precincts.

SECTION 52. Section 9-7-30, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-30. There shall be two (2) judges for the Ninth Circuit Court District. One (1) judge shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 53. Section 9-7-31, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-31. The Tenth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Clarke County;

(b) Kemper County;

(d) Wayne County.

SECTION 54. Section 9-7-32, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-32. (1) There shall be two (2) judges for the Tenth Circuit Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 55. Section 9-7-33, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-33. (1) The Eleventh Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Bolivar County;

(b) Coahoma County;

(d) Tunica County.

(2) The Eleventh Circuit Court District shall be divided into three (3) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 11-1 shall consist of the following precincts from the following counties:

(i) Bolivar County: Gunnison, Rosedale, Pace, Benoit, Scott, East-Central Cleveland, Cleveland Courthouse, Central Cleveland, West Cleveland, Longshot, North Cleveland, Skene, Shaw, Boyle and Stringtown Precincts; and

(ii) Coahoma County: Sherard, Clarksdale 2-4, Rena Lara, and Bobo Precincts.

(b) Subdistrict 11-2 shall consist of the following precincts from the following counties:

(i) Bolivar County: Alligator-Duncan, Shelby, Mound Bayou, Winstonville, Merigold, and East Cleveland Precincts;

(ii) Coahoma County: Clarksdale 4-2, Mattson, Clarksdale 3-3, Cagle Crossing and Roundway Precincts; and

(iii) Quitman County: North Marks, West Marks, Sabino, West Lambert, Lambert, and Mattie Precincts.

(i) Coahoma County: Lula, Farrell, Friars Point, Lyon, Clarksdale 1-4, Clarksdale 1-4A, Clarksdale 1-4B, Clarksdale 1-4C, Clarksdale 1-4D, Clarksdale 1-4E, Clarksdale 1-4F, Clarksdale 2-4A, Clarksdale 2-4B, Clarksdale 2-4C, Clarksdale 3-3A, Clarksdale 3-3B, Clarksdale 3-3C, Clarksdale 3-3D, Clarksdale 3-3E, Clarksdale 3-3F, Clarksdale 4-2A, Clarksdale 5-4, Clarksdale 5-4A, Clarksdale 5-4B, Coahoma and Jonestown Precincts; and

(ii) Quitman County: Crenshaw, Sledge, Birdie Darling, Belen, Marks, and Crowder Precincts.

SECTION 56. Section 9-7-34, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-34. There shall be three (3) judges for the Eleventh Circuit Court District. One (1) judge shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 57. Section 9-7-35, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-35. The Twelfth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Forrest County; and

(b) Perry County.

SECTION 58. Section 9-7-37, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-37. The Thirteenth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Covington County;

(b) Jasper County;

(d) Smith County.

SECTION 59. Section 9-7-39, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-39. (1) The Fourteenth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Lincoln County;

(b) Pike County; and

(2) (a) There shall be two (2) judges for the Fourteenth Circuit Court District.

(b) For purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 60. Section 9-7-41, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-41. The Fifteenth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Jefferson Davis County;

(b) Lamar County;

(d) Marion County; and

(e) Pearl River County.

SECTION 61. Section 9-7-42, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-42. (1) There shall be two (2) judges for the Fifteenth Circuit Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 62. Section 9-7-43, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-43. The Sixteenth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Clay County;

(b) Lowndes County;

(d) Oktibbeha County.

SECTION 63. Section 9-7-44, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-44. (1) There shall be three (3) judges for the Sixteenth Circuit Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the three (3) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two" and "Place Three." The judge to fill Place One shall be a resident of Lowndes County. The judge to fill Place Two shall be a resident of Oktibbeha County. The judge to fill Place Three shall be a resident of either Clay or Noxubee County. Election of the three (3) offices of judge shall be by election to be held in every county within the Sixteenth Circuit Court District.

SECTION 64. Section 9-7-45, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-45. The Seventeenth Circuit Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 17-1 shall consist of DeSoto County; and

(b) Subdistrict 17-2 shall consist of Panola County, Tallahatchie County, Tate County and Yalobusha County.

SECTION 65. Section 9-7-46, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-46. (1) There shall be four (4) circuit judges for the Seventeenth Circuit Court District.

(2) For the purpose of appointment and election, the four (4) judgeships shall be separate and distinct, and one (1) judge shall be elected from Subdistrict 17-1, two (2) judges shall be elected from Subdistrict 17-2, and one (1) judge shall be elected from every county in the district. The two (2) judgeships in Subdistrict 17-2 shall be denominated as "Place One" and "Place Two," the judgeship in Subdistrict 17-1 shall be denominated as "Place Three," and the at-large judgeship shall be denominated as "Place Four."

SECTION 66. Section 9-7-47, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-47. The Eighteenth Circuit Court District shall be Jones County.

SECTION 67. Section 9-7-49, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-49. (1) The Nineteenth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) George County;

(b) Greene County; and

(2) The local contribution required for the maintenance of the Nineteenth Circuit Court District shall not exceed, as to George and Greene Counties, the amount of their present local contribution in their present respective circuit court districts, and any excess shall be paid by Jackson County.

SECTION 68. Section 9-7-51, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-51. (1) There shall be three (3) circuit judges for the Nineteenth Circuit Court District. For the purposes of appointment and election, the three (3) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two" and "Place Three."

(2) The senior judge of the Nineteenth Circuit Court District may divide the court of any county within the district into civil, criminal and appellate court divisions as a matter of convenience by the entry of an order upon the minutes of the court.

SECTION 69. Section 9-7-53, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-53. The Twentieth Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Madison County; and

(b) Rankin County.

SECTION 70. Section 9-7-54, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-54. (1) There shall be two (2) judges for the Twentieth Circuit Court District.

(2) For purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 71. Section 9-7-55, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-55. The Twenty-first Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Holmes County;

(b) Humphreys County; and

SECTION 72. Section 9-7-57, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

9-7-57. The Twenty-second Circuit Court District shall be comprised of the following counties:

(a) Claiborne County;

(b) Copiah County; and

SECTION 73. Section 25-31-5, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

25-31-5. (1) The following number of full-time legal assistants are authorized in the following circuit court districts:

(a) First Circuit Court District...... eight (8)

legal assistants.

(b) Second Circuit Court District..... nine (9)

legal assistants.

(d) Fourth Circuit Court District..... five (5)

legal assistants.

(e) Fifth Circuit Court District...... five (5)

legal assistants.

(f) Sixth Circuit Court District...... two (2)

legal assistants.

(g) Seventh Circuit Court District.... eleven (11)

legal assistants.

(h) Eighth Circuit Court District..... three (3)

legal assistants.

(i) Ninth Circuit Court District...... two (2)

legal assistants.

(j) Tenth Circuit Court District...... four (4)

legal assistants.

(k) Eleventh Circuit Court District... five (5)

legal assistants.

(l) Twelfth Circuit Court District.... four (4)

legal assistants.

(m) Thirteenth Circuit Court District. three (3)

legal assistants.

(n) Fourteenth Circuit Court District. four (4)

legal assistants.

(o) Fifteenth Circuit Court District.. five (5)

legal assistants.

(p) Sixteenth Circuit Court District.. four (4)

legal assistants.

(q) Seventeenth Circuit Court District six (6)

legal assistants.

(r) Eighteenth Circuit Court District. two (2)

legal assistants.

(s) Nineteenth Circuit Court District. four (4)

legal assistants.

(t) Twentieth Circuit Court District.. four (4)

legal assistants.

(u) Twenty-first Circuit Court District two (2)

legal assistants.

(v) Twenty-second Circuit Court District.. two (2)

legal assistants.

(2) In addition to any legal assistants authorized pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the following number of full-time legal assistants are authorized (i) in the following circuit court districts if funds are appropriated by the Legislature to adequately fund the salaries, expenses and fringe benefits of such legal assistants, or (ii) in any of the following circuit court districts in which the board of supervisors of one or more of the counties in a circuit court district adopts a resolution to pay all of the salaries, supplemental pay, expenses and fringe benefits of legal assistants authorized in such district pursuant to this subsection:

(a) First Circuit Court District....... two (2)

legal assistants.

(b) Second Circuit Court District...... two (2)

legal assistants.

(d) Fourth Circuit Court District...... two (2)

legal assistants.

(e) Fifth Circuit Court District....... two (2)

legal assistants.

(f) Sixth Circuit Court District....... two (2)

legal assistants.

(g) Seventh Circuit Court District..... two (2)

legal assistants.

(h) Eighth Circuit Court District...... two (2)

legal assistants.

(i) Ninth Circuit Court District....... two (2)

legal assistants.

(j) Tenth Circuit Court District....... two (2)

legal assistants.

(k) Eleventh Circuit Court District.... two (2)

legal assistants.

(l) Twelfth Circuit Court District..... two (2)

legal assistants.

(m) Thirteenth Circuit Court District.. two (2)

legal assistants.

(n) Fourteenth Circuit Court District.. two (2)

legal assistants.

(o) Fifteenth Circuit Court District... two (2)

legal assistants.

(p) Sixteenth Circuit Court District... two (2)

legal assistants.

(q) Seventeenth Circuit Court District. two (2)

legal assistants.

(r) Eighteenth Circuit Court District.. two (2)

legal assistants.

(s) Nineteenth Circuit Court District.. two (2)

legal assistants.

(t) Twentieth Circuit Court District... two (2)

legal assistants.

(u) Twenty-first Circuit Court District two (2)

legal assistants.

(v) Twenty-second Circuit Court District two (2)

legal assistants.

(3) The board of supervisors of any county may pay all or a part of the salary, supplemental pay, expenses and fringe benefits of any district attorney or legal assistant authorized in the circuit court district to which such county belongs pursuant to this section.

(4) The district attorney of any circuit court district may employ additional legal assistants or criminal investigators, or both, without regard to any limitation on the number of legal assistants authorized in this section or criminal investigators authorized by other provisions of law to the extent that the district attorney's office receives funds from any source. Any source shall include, but is not limited to, office generated funds, funds from a county, a combination of counties, a municipality, a combination of municipalities, federal funds, private grants or foundations, or by means of an Interlocal Cooperative Agreement authorized by Section 17-13-1 which may be expended for those positions in an amount sufficient to pay all of the salary, supplemental pay, expenses and fringe benefits of the positions. Such funds may either be paid out of district attorney accounts, transferred by the district attorney to the Department of Finance and Administration or to one or more of the separate counties comprising the circuit court district, and said funds shall be disbursed to such employees in the same manner as state-funded criminal investigators and full-time legal assistants. The district attorney shall report to the board of supervisors of each county comprising the circuit court district the amount and source of the supplemental salary, expenses and fringe benefits, and the board in each county shall spread the same on its minutes. The district attorney shall also report such information to the Department of Finance and Administration which shall make such information available to the Legislative Budget Office.

(5) The district attorney shall be authorized to assign the duties of a legal assistant regardless of the source of funding for such legal assistants.

SECTION 74. Section 25-31-10, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

25-31-10. (1) Any district attorney may appoint a full-time criminal investigator.

(2) The district attorneys of the Third, Fifth, Ninth, Tenth, Eleventh, Twelfth, Thirteenth, Fourteenth, Fifteenth, Sixteenth, Seventeenth and Twentieth Circuit Court Districts may appoint one (1) additional full-time criminal investigator for a total of two (2) full-time criminal investigators.

(3) The district attorneys of the First, Second, Fourth, Seventh and Nineteenth Circuit Court Districts may appoint two (2) additional full-time criminal investigators for a total of three (3) full-time criminal investigators.

(4) No district attorney or assistant district attorney shall accept any private employment, civil or criminal, in any matter investigated by such criminal investigators.

(5) The full and complete compensation for all public duties rendered by said criminal investigators shall be not more than Fifty-nine Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($59,500.00) per annum, to be determined at the discretion of the district attorney based upon the qualifications, education and experience of the criminal investigator, plus necessary travel and other expenses, to be paid in accordance with Section 25-31-8. However, the maximum salary under this subsection for a criminal investigator who has a law degree may be supplemented by the district attorney from other available funds, but not to exceed the maximum salary for a legal assistant to a district attorney.

(6) Any criminal investigator may be designated by the district attorney to attend the Law Enforcement Officers Training Program set forth in Section 45-6-1 et seq., Mississippi Code of 1972. The total expenses associated with attendance by criminal investigators at the Law Enforcement Officers Training Program shall be paid out of the funds of the appropriate district attorney.

(7) The district attorney shall be authorized to assign the duties of criminal investigators regardless of the source of funding for such criminal investigators.

SECTION 75. Section 99-36-7, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

99-36-7. (1) (a) In addition to the full-time legal assistants to the district attorney authorized by Section 25-31-5, the district attorney in each circuit court district in this state shall, subject to the approval of and upon the order of the senior circuit court judge of the district, employ one (1) person to serve at the will and pleasure of the district attorney as a "victim assistance coordinator" who shall not be considered to be a state employee.

(b) The District Attorney of the First Circuit Court District may appoint one (1) additional victim assistance coordinator subject to the approval of and upon the order of the senior circuit court judge of the district for a total of two (2) victim assistance coordinators.

(2) The duty of the victim assistance coordinator is to ensure that a victim, guardian of a victim, or close relative of a deceased victim is afforded the rights granted victims, guardians and relatives by Section 99-36-5. The victim assistance coordinator shall work closely with appropriate law enforcement agencies, prosecuting attorneys, the state and the judiciary in fulfilling that duty.

(3) The salary of the victim assistance coordinator shall not exceed the salary authorized for criminal investigators in Section 25-31-10, and shall be paid jointly by the counties comprising the circuit court district, with each county paying a pro rata share of the salary as determined by the senior circuit court judge.

(4) The board of supervisors of any county, with the approval of and upon the order of the senior circuit court judge of the district wherein such county lies, may, in addition to any victim assistance coordinator provided for in subsection (1) of this section, create the position of county victim assistance coordinator. The duty of the county victim assistance coordinator shall be to cooperate with local law enforcement agencies, the county attorney and the district attorney in assuring that a victim, guardian or close relative is afforded the rights granted by Section 99-36-5. Two (2) or more counties, by action of their respective boards of supervisors, with the approval of and upon the order of the senior circuit court judge of the district wherein such counties lie, may join in establishing and maintaining the position of victim assistance coordinator to serve these counties. Any municipality, by action of its governing authority, may participate in the establishment and maintenance of a county victim assistance coordinator's office located within the municipality.

(5) Any district attorney, county board of supervisors or governing authority of a municipality which has established or is participating in the maintenance of an office of victim assistance coordinator may apply through the Governor's Office of State and Federal Programs for a grant under the federal "Victims of Crimes Act of 1984" (Public Law 98-473) to be used in the continued operation of the victim assistance program.

SECTION 76. Section 23-15-977, Mississippi Code of 1972, is brought forward as follows:

23-15-977. (1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, all candidates for judicial office as defined in Section 23-15-975 of this subarticle shall file their intent to be a candidate with the proper officials not later than 5:00 p.m. on the first Friday after the first Monday in May prior to the general election for judicial office and shall pay to the proper officials the following amounts:

(a) Candidates for Supreme Court judge and Court of Appeals, the sum of Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00).

(b) Candidates for circuit judge and chancellor, the sum of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00).

Candidates for judicial office may not file their intent to be a candidate and pay the proper assessment before January 1 of the year in which the election for the judicial office is held.

(2) Candidates for judicial offices listed in paragraphs (a) and (b) of subsection (1) of this section shall file their intent to be a candidate with, and pay the proper assessment made pursuant to subsection (1) of this section to, the State Board of Election Commissioners.

(3) Candidates for judicial offices listed in paragraph (c) of subsection (1) of this section shall file their intent to be a candidate with, and pay the proper assessment made pursuant to subsection (1) of this section to, the circuit clerk of the proper county. The circuit clerk shall notify the county commissioners of election of all persons who have filed their intent to be a candidate with, and paid the proper assessment to, such clerk. Such notification shall occur within two (2) business days and shall contain all necessary information.

(4) If only one (1) person files his intent to be a candidate for a judicial office and that person subsequently dies, resigns or is otherwise disqualified from holding the judicial office after the deadline provided for in subsection (1) of this section but more than seventy (70) days before the date of the general election, the Governor, upon notification of the death, resignation or disqualification of the person, shall issue a proclamation authorizing candidates to file their intent to be a candidate for that judicial office for a period of not less than seven (7) nor more than ten (10) days from the date of the proclamation.

(5) If only one (1) person qualifies as a candidate for a judicial office and that person subsequently dies, resigns or is otherwise disqualified from holding the judicial office within seventy (70) days before the date of the general election, the judicial office shall be considered vacant for the new term and the vacancy shall be filled as provided in by law.

SECTION 77. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 2014.