Reduces jury trial threshold from $50,000 to $20,000. (1/1/21)
If enacted, SB86 will significantly impact the civil court landscape in Louisiana, allowing more cases to be eligible for jury trials. This change could lead to an increase in the number of trials, which may also affect the overall efficiency of the court system. Proponents believe that the bill could empower individuals by giving them the option to present their cases before a jury, rather than resolving disputes through potentially less favorable bench trials. This initiative is seen as a way to facilitate access to justice for lower-income citizens who may not have had the means to pursue larger claims.
Senate Bill 86 seeks to amend the Code of Civil Procedure in Louisiana by reducing the threshold for eligibility for a jury trial from $50,000 to $20,000. This adjustment aims to make jury trials more accessible for individuals with smaller claims, thereby potentially increasing the number of cases that can be brought before a jury. By lowering this monetary threshold, the bill intends to address concerns that the previous limit restricted justice for claimants with legitimate grievances that fell below the previous threshold.
The sentiment surrounding SB86 appears to be largely supportive among advocates for civil justice and access to the court system. Supporters argue that the bill represents a positive step towards democratizing the civil trial process and ensuring that even those with smaller claims can have their day in court. However, potential opposition may arise from legal professionals and organizations who worry about the implications of increased jury trials on court resources and the legal system's capacity to handle higher volumes of cases efficiently.
Notable points of contention may center around the concerns regarding increased strain on the judicial system. Critics could argue that while the intention of SB86 is to enhance access to justice, it may inadvertently lead to longer wait times and overburdened court schedules, as more cases vie for jury trials. There may also be discussions about the potential impacts on legal strategies and litigation costs for both plaintiffs and defendants, since a more extensive jury trial process might lead to increased legal expenses.