Relating to the creation of an appellate judicial system for the Sixth Court of Appeals District.
Impact
The bill introduces a $5 court costs fee that will be applied to civil suits filed in various courts within the district. Notably, this fee is exempt for suits brought by governmental entities or those concerning delinquent taxes. The funds generated from these fees are designated for a separate appellate judicial system fund, which will be managed by the commissioners court and is intended solely for the support of the appellate system. This mechanism is designed to provide a stable source of funding for the judicial processes in the Sixth Court of Appeals District.
Summary
House Bill 966 proposes the establishment of an appellate judicial system specifically for the Sixth Court of Appeals District. The bill mandates that the commissioners court of each county within the district create a system intended to assist the court of appeals in processing appeals originating from county, statutory county, probate, and district courts. This proposed system aims to enhance the efficiency of court operations by centralizing certain judicial responsibilities and introducing new procedural guidelines for appeals.
Contention
While the bill is primarily seen as a step towards improving the judicial process in the district, it may raise concerns regarding the imposition of additional fees on litigants. Critics may argue that the introduction of new filing fees could deter access to justice for some individuals, raising questions about the equity of enforcing such costs on all civil suits. Moreover, there could be debate over how effectively these newly established systems will function and whether they will truly yield the intended improvements in processing appeals while ensuring that local needs are satisfactorily addressed.
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.
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.
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.
Relating to court administration, including the knowledge, efficiency, training, and transparency requirements for candidates for or holders of judicial offices.