Texas House Bill HB3458

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to certain fees collected by a justice court.

Impact

If passed, HB3458 will affect the financial aspects of the operation of justice courts within Texas. By restructuring the fee schedule, the bill seeks to standardize costs that individuals must pay when utilizing these courts. As a result, consistency in how fees are applied across different jurisdictions may improve transparency and predictability for residents engaging with the justice system. This could lead to more efficient administration of justice as individuals will have a clearer understanding of the costs associated with court services.

Summary

House Bill 3458 proposes amendments to various sections of the Texas Government Code concerning fees collected by justice courts and small claims courts. The bill aims to clarify and adjust the fee structures for services rendered by justices of the peace in relation to both pre-judgment and post-judgment proceedings. This includes a range of fee modifications which designate specific amounts for different court services, such as transcripts, abstracts of judgment, and other documentation.

Contention

While the bill itself may not appear to present significant controversy, adjustments to court fees can often spark debate regarding access to justice. Concerns may arise about equity for lower-income individuals who might find these fees burdensome. Advocates for social justice could argue that increasing fees, even marginally, may further restrict access to essential legal resources for those in socio-economically disadvantaged situations. Thus, discussions around HB3458 may pivot on balancing necessary revenue for the courts against ensuring that justice remains accessible to all.