Relating to the jurisdiction and administration of, and procedures relating to, certain courts in this state, including procedures for appeals.
Impact
If passed, SB992 will significantly impact how courts operate within the state, grounding various procedural aspects in the Government Code and repealing outdated sections. By redefining the responsibilities of judges and clerks, particularly concerning family law cases and civil litigation, this bill aims to foster a more coherent judicial experience for Texans. It also enforces stricter controls over the jurisdictional limits for statutory courts, potentially moving certain cases to district courts, which may alleviate case burdens on lower courts.
Summary
Senate Bill 992 seeks to revise the jurisdiction and administration of statutory courts in Texas, effectively streamlining procedures within the judicial system. The bill outlines specific duties, jurisdiction limits, and administrative processes for statutory county courts, statutory probate courts, and district courts. Notably, the bill updates regulations surrounding case transfers between courts, which aims to enhance judicial efficiency and reduce redundancy in overlapping jurisdictions. Moreover, it addresses the avenues for appeals, particularly in eviction cases, by establishing clearer guidelines on the appeals process and supersedeas bonds.
Contention
Concerns have been raised regarding the potential implications of such changes, including the fear that transferring more cases to district courts may overburden them, ultimately leading to delays in case resolution. Opponents argue that while consolidating judicial authority might streamline operations, it risks eroding local control and responsiveness to community justice needs. Discussions focused on whether the enforcement of these administrative changes would adequately address long-standing inefficiencies or create new barriers for litigants seeking justice.
Similar
Relating to the jurisdiction and administration of, and procedures relating to, certain courts in this state, including procedures for appeals.
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 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 fiscal and other matters necessary for implementation of the judiciary budget as enacted by H.B. No. 1, Acts of the 82nd Legislature, Regular Session, 2011, and to the operation and administration of, and practice and procedures in courts in, the judicial branch of state government.
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, 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; imposing a fee; creating a criminal offense.
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.