Relating to filing fees for civil actions or proceedings in a district, county, justice, or small claims court.
Impact
The impact of SB1754 is significant as it modifies the current fee schedules that govern civil actions in Texas courts. By revising these fees, the bill aims to enhance the financial resources available to the judiciary and fund necessary civil legal services for indigent citizens. This is especially relevant for supporting legal aid and ensuring access to justice, as the additional fees collected would contribute towards these causes. Furthermore, it clarifies the roles of clerks in collecting these fees in alignment with updated regulations, promoting a more standardized process across different jurisdictions.
Summary
SB1754 addresses the collection of filing fees for various civil actions in different types of courts, including District, County, Justice, and Small Claims courts. The bill outlines specific changes to existing fees, establishing a framework that stipulates the amounts that clerks of the courts must collect. In particular, it introduces a fee structure where family law cases will incur a $5 fee, while other civil actions will attract a $10 fee. Additionally, the bill details adjustments to previously mentioned fees for statutory county courts, probation court actions, and other civil legal processes.
Contention
One notable contention surrounding SB1754 involves the balance between increasing funding for legal services and the potential financial burden on individuals seeking justice. Critics might argue that higher filing fees could disproportionately affect low-income individuals or those at a disadvantage in legal proceedings, thereby limiting their access to the courts. Proponents of the bill, however, contend that the adjustments are necessary for improving the sustainability of judicial operations and maintaining the infrastructure necessary for effective court functioning.
Identical
Relating to filing fees in civil actions and proceedings and the use of those fees, to costs on conviction in certain courts, to money paid into the registry of a court in certain counties, and to the appointment of counsel in certain suits.
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 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 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 youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.
Relating to the disclosure of information concerning the corporate governance structure of certain insurers and related entities; providing an administrative penalty.
Relating to the disclosure of information concerning the corporate governance structure of certain insurers and related entities; providing an administrative penalty.