Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB896

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the administration and operation of the appellate judicial system for the Second Court of Appeals District.

Impact

The implementation of SB896 is expected to enhance the operational efficiency of the Second Court of Appeals District by providing a dedicated source of funding through the establishment of a separate appellate judicial system fund. This change introduces a specific court cost that applies only to civil cases, thereby standardizing the fees associated with appellate proceedings within the district. This could potentially improve access to justice as the additional funds may allow for improved staffing and resources within the appellate courts, leading to quicker turnaround times for case processing and appeals.

Summary

SB896, focusing on the administration and operation of the appellate judicial system for the Second Court of Appeals District in Texas, proposes to establish a system that assists with the processing of appeals from various county and district courts. The bill outlines the authority given to the commissioners court of each county within this district to set a fee of up to $5 for civil suits filed in order to fund the appellate judicial system. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on the court of appeals while also ensuring that sufficient resources are available to handle the caseload effectively.

Sentiment

General sentiment regarding SB896 appears to be supportive, particularly among judicial and legal communities who recognize the necessity for adequately funding the judicial system to maintain efficiency. While the bill may face some opposition from entities concerned about increased costs associated with filing civil suits, the reductions in delays and improved court functioning underscore the potential positive impact. Overall, it aligns with efforts to strengthen the judicial system and enhance its capabilities.

Contention

While some stakeholders view the imposition of a fee as an essential step toward bolstering the judicial system, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for individuals pursuing civil actions. Critics could argue that any additional costs, however minimal, might deter access to the courts, particularly for low-income individuals. Addressing these concerns while emphasizing the necessity of adequate funding for court operations will be crucial for promoting a balanced perspective on the bill.

Companion Bills

TX HB410

Identical Relating to the administration and operation of the appellate judicial system for the Second Court of Appeals District; changing an appellate judicial system court costs fee in certain counties.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2431

Relating to preparation of an appellate record in civil appeals.

TX SB1462

Relating to the operation and administration of and practices and procedures related to proceedings in the judicial branch of state government.

TX HB4703

Relating to the operation and administration of and practice in and grants provided by courts in the judicial branch of state government.

TX HB3474

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.

TX HB525

Relating to delivery of certain statutory county court, district court, or appellate court orders.

TX SB1045

Relating to the creation of the Fifteenth Court of Appeals with jurisdiction over certain civil cases, the compensation of the justices of that court, and the jurisdiction of the courts of appeals in this state.

TX HB3166

Relating to the creation of the Fifteenth Court of Appeals with jurisdiction over certain civil cases, the compensation of the justices of that court, and the jurisdiction of the courts of appeals in this state; authorizing fees.

TX HB3403

Relating to court administration and costs; increasing certain court costs; authorizing fees.

TX HB2384

Relating to court administration, including the knowledge, efficiency, training, and transparency requirements for candidates for or holders of judicial offices.

TX HB2778

Relating to the operation and administration of the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

Similar Bills

TX HB410

Relating to the administration and operation of the appellate judicial system for the Second Court of Appeals District; changing an appellate judicial system court costs fee in certain counties.

TX SB41

Relating to the consolidation and allocation of state civil court costs; increasing certain civil court costs; authorizing fees.

TX SB39

Relating to the consolidation and allocation of state civil court costs; increasing certain civil court costs.

TX HB4417

Relating to the consolidation and allocation of state civil court costs; increasing certain civil court costs.

TX HB3153

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.

TX SB2254

Relating to creation of magistrates in Fort Bend County.

TX HB2768

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.

TX SB1139

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.