Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB409

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the jurisdiction of county and justice courts in civil matters.

Impact

The implications of SB409 are noteworthy for both legal practice and the residents of Texas. By increasing the monetary jurisdictional limit, the bill facilitates a broader range of civil claims that can be resolved at the county and justice court levels without escalating to district courts. This could lead to quicker resolutions of small civil disputes, reducing the backlog in higher courts. Additionally, it may simplify the legal process for litigants involved in cases that fall within this newly defined jurisdiction, potentially lowering legal costs by allowing for more straightforward proceedings.

Summary

SB409 aims to amend the jurisdictional limits for county and justice courts in civil matters within the Texas Government Code. The bill seeks to raise the jurisdictional threshold of county courts from $10,000 to $20,000 in civil cases, thereby allowing these courts to handle a wider range of civil cases directly. Furthermore, it modifies the jurisdiction of justice courts to align with this increase, allowing them to address civil matters with amounts not exceeding $20,000. This legislative change is positioned to enhance the judicial efficiency and accessibility of the state’s court system, particularly in lower courts that handle a significant volume of civil disputes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB409 appears to be generally positive among lawmakers, especially those who advocate for judicial efficiency. Proponents argue that raising the jurisdictional limits represents a necessary adjustment to meet the realities of financial disputes commonly faced by Texans. Critics, if any, are not prominently featured in the documentation, suggesting a consensus or lack of significant opposition within the legislative process concerning this adjustment.

Contention

Notably, one point of contention might arise from the potential effects on the judicial workload and the distribution of cases. While the bill aims to relieve congestion in district courts, there are questions about whether justice courts are equipped to manage the increased caseload effectively. Discussions on the adequacy of resources and court personnel to handle more complex cases within the higher monetary limits may challenge the perceived benefits of this legislation. Furthermore, small claims and other civil matters that exceed the previous limit may result in changes in how parties approach litigation, particularly in terms of seeking legal representation.

Companion Bills

TX HB2573

Similar Relating to the civil jurisdiction of a justice court.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1045

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.

TX HB3166

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.

TX HB3952

Relating to the jurisdiction of courts in cases of forcible entry and detainer and forcible detainer.

TX HB457

Relating to the jurisdiction of the statutory county courts of Grayson County in family law matters.

TX HB5378

Relating to the jurisdiction and operation of the county courts at law in McLennan County.

TX HB3186

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.

TX SB1505

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.

TX HB1436

Relating to the redesignation of County Court at Law No. 2 of Montgomery County as Probate Court No. 1 of Montgomery County, the jurisdiction and authority of statutory probate courts in Montgomery County, and the composition of the Montgomery County Juvenile Board.

TX SB1259

Relating to the maximum judgment amount awarded by a justice court in certain civil cases regarding the repair of residential rental property.

TX SB2573

Relating to the jurisdiction of the 411th District Court and of the County Court at Law of Polk County.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.