Monday, March 3, 2003
State of Florida v. Bennie Demps

No.01-1301 & 02-302

Bradford County


Two attorneys, George Schaefer and William Salmon, represented Bennie Demps in his final appeal to this Court before his execution in June 2000. In separate proceedings, different trial court judges awarded attorney's fees to each attorney. The judge who heard Schaefer's claim declared the $100 per hour fee mandated by section 27.711, Florida Statutes, unconstitutional as to him. The judge who considered Salmon's claim ruled he was entitled to compensation although he is not listed in the Registry of attorneys qualified to be paid by the State for such representation. The state comptroller appeals both awards.