Texas House Bill HB1027

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to notice of self-help resources on the Internet website of a state court and in the court building.

Impact

The implementation of HB1027 is expected to foster a more informed public regarding their legal rights and available support systems. By requiring courts to post and display information about self-help resources, the bill facilitates greater awareness among individuals who may not have the means to hire an attorney. This could potentially lead to more effective engagement in legal processes by ensuring that people understand the options available to them when navigating the court system.

Summary

House Bill 1027 aims to enhance access to legal resources for individuals representing themselves in court. The bill mandates that each court in Texas must provide information on available self-help resources both on their website and prominently within the physical court building. This includes links to the Office of Court Administration's self-help resources, local lawyer referral services, and legal aid organizations that provide free services to indigent individuals. The intention behind this measure is to ensure that self-represented litigants have clear guidance on where to find legal assistance, thereby improving access to justice for all citizens.

Contention

While the bill is focused on improving access to legal resources, it may face contention related to the adequacy and accuracy of the resources provided. Critics could argue that simply providing links to resources does not guarantee that individuals will receive the necessary help or guidance to effectively represent themselves. Additionally, there may be concerns about whether public funding is adequately supporting these resources, and whether the legal aid organizations listed are sufficient to meet the needs of all indigent persons in Texas.