Relating to the operation and administration of and practices and procedures regarding proceedings in the judicial branch of state government, including the service of process and delivery of documents related to the proceedings, the administration of oaths, and the management of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission, and the composition of certain juvenile boards; establishing a civil penalty; increasing certain court costs; authorizing fees.
Impact
The impact of HB 3474 on state laws is significant, as it amends several sections of the Government Code, among other statutes, to improve the functioning of the judicial system. This includes the establishment of rules regarding when and how court documents are served, the qualifications required for serving as a grand juror, and adjustments to the jurisdictions of various district courts. The bill aims to streamline these processes, potentially leading to faster resolution of legal matters and a clearer understanding of judicial responsibilities among officials.
Summary
House Bill 3474 is an omnibus judicial reform bill aimed at modernizing the operations and procedures within Texas's judicial branch. The legislation includes provisions related to the service of process, document delivery, oath administration, and the management of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission. Notably, it seeks to establish a consistent legal framework for various court processes and enhance the judicial efficiency across the state. This bill also introduces civil penalties and increases certain court costs, reflecting its comprehensive approach to judicial management.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 3474 has generally been positive among lawmakers and judicial officials who see it as a necessary update to the state's judicial framework. Supporters argue that the bill will enhance efficiency and clarity within the judicial processes, providing a better experience for litigants and legal professionals alike. However, there has been some minor contention regarding the increases in court costs and the establishment of civil penalties, with critics suggesting that these changes could unduly burden individuals seeking justice.
Contention
Some notable points of contention include the amendments related to the service of process during legislative sessions, which could raise concerns about access to legal recourse for legislators. Additionally, the timing and method of implementing increased court costs and civil penalties have sparked discussions on whether they may disproportionately affect low-income individuals. Overall, while the bill is seen as progressive, its financial implications and procedural changes warrant ongoing scrutiny.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 25. Statutory County Courts
Section: 0932
Section: 1031
Section: 1572
Section: 0932
Section: 1031
Section: 1721
Section: 2703
Section: 2704
Section: 2391
Section: 2392
Section: 1721
Section: 1723
Chapter 26. Constitutional County Courts
Section: 315
Chapter 24. District Courts
Section: 60030
Section: 60031
Section: 60032
Section: 60033
Section: 275
Section: 600201
Section: 60030
Section: 60031
Section: 60032
Section: 60033
Section: 60034
Section: 60039
Section: 60040
Section: 60041
Section: 60042
Section: 60043
Section: New Section
Section: 60095
Section: 60031
Section: 60032
Section: 60033
Section: 60034
Section: 384
Section: 539
Section: 600201
Section: 60038
Section: 60039
Section: 6009
Chapter 51. Clerks
Section: 3071
Chapter 30. Municipal Courts Of Record
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 22. Appellate Courts
Section: 3015
Section: 3015
Section: 3015
Chapter 80. Delivery Of Notice, Orders, And Documents
Identical
Relating to the operation and administration of and practices and procedures related to proceedings in the judicial branch of state government.
Relating to the operation and administration of and practice in courts in the judicial branch of state government, the composition of certain juvenile boards, and the increase of certain filing fees.
Relating to the operation and administration of, and practice in courts in, the judicial branch of state government and the composition of certain juvenile boards; imposing a fee.
Relating to the operation and administration of and practice in courts in the judicial branch of state government and the composition of certain juvenile boards.
Relating to the operation and administration of and practices and procedures related to proceedings in the judicial branch of state government, including court security, court documents and arrest warrants, document delivery, juvenile boards, constitutional amendment election challenges, mandatory expunction for certain persons, record retention, and youth diversion; increasing a criminal penalty; authorizing fees.
Relating to the operation and administration of and practice in and grants provided by courts in the judicial branch of state government; increasing and imposing fees; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the operation and administration of and practice in and grants provided by courts in the judicial branch of state government; increasing and imposing fees; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the operation and administration of and practice in courts in the judicial branch of state government; imposing a fee; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the operation and administration of and practice in courts in the judicial branch of state government, the composition of certain juvenile boards, and the increase of certain filing fees.