Texas House Bill HB4199

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to a special bill of review to reform a final judgment of forfeiture of a bail bond.

Impact

The repeal of Article 22.17 of the Code of Criminal Procedure is a notable alteration in the legal framework, as it removes previous stipulations governing the review of forfeiture judgments. This move seeks to streamline the process for individuals affected by such judgments and ensure that courts can reconsider them under the new guidelines. The act facilitates the introduction of a special bill of review indicating that reform in the judgment process is now more accessible, which could significantly affect those involved in the bail bond industry and individuals who find themselves in forfeiture situations.

Summary

House Bill 4199 introduces significant changes related to the procedural management of bail bonds in Texas. Specifically, it outlines the framework for a special bill of review aimed at reforming final judgments of forfeiture concerning bail bonds. With this legislative change, individuals who have had forfeiture judgments entered against them will have an avenue to seek judicial review and potentially contest those judgments through the new procedural guidelines established by the bill.

Contention

While the bill's intent is to provide relief and a fair process for individuals facing bail bond forfeitures, there may be concerns regarding the implications this has on the security and reliability of bail bonds. Opponents might argue that making it easier to contest forfeitures could undermine the integrity of bail bonds as a financial guarantee for court appearances. Consequently, this bill raises questions about the balance between ensuring fair judicial processes and maintaining the accountability mechanisms inherent in the bail system.