Missouri House Bill HB2698

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Establishes provisions relating to the collection of court costs

Impact

This bill, if passed, would have a significant influence on existing state laws governing the collection of judicial fees. It is likely to amend current statutes related to how these costs are implemented, potentially affecting various stakeholders including court systems, litigants, and legal practitioners. The establishment of clear guidelines may also reduce disputes arising from unclear or inconsistent fee assessments. Consequently, this could lead to an increase in compliance and timely payments of costs associated with court proceedings, fostering a sense of accountability among involved parties.

Summary

House Bill 2698 aims to establish specific provisions that relate to the collection of court costs. The bill seeks to clarify the existing framework regarding how these costs are assessed and collected within the judicial system. Advocates for the bill argue that it will lead to a more organized and predictable process surrounding court fees, ultimately benefiting both the court system and the individuals involved in legal proceedings. By streamlining this aspect of the judiciary, HB2698 could contribute to a more efficient operation of the courts and an enhanced understanding for litigants regarding their financial obligations.

Contention

While the bill has supporters who view it as a necessary improvement to the efficiency of the court system, there may be opponents who raise concerns about the implications of standardized costs on individuals who might struggle to pay court fees. Some argue that this could inadvertently create barriers to access for low-income individuals facing legal challenges. Therefore, the discussion around HB2698 might include a focus on balancing the need for structured fee collection with the imperative of ensuring access to justice for all citizens, regardless of their financial situation.