Texas Senate Bill SB1465

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to affidavits concerning cost and necessity of services.

Impact

The primary impact of SB1465 is on the evidentiary standards surrounding civil actions, particularly those related to the provision of services. By adjusting how affidavits can be employed—and emphasizing a more structured approach to counteraffidavits—the bill aims to alleviate potential delays in litigation due to disputes over cost assertions. The changes are believed to result in clearer guidelines for both parties and help judges make more informed decisions based on the affidavits' content, leading to increased efficiency in civil trials.

Summary

SB1465 focuses on modifications to the affidavits concerning the cost and necessity of services within the Civil Practice and Remedies Code. The bill introduces amendments to specifically streamline the process by which affidavits are submitted in court, thereby intended to create a more efficient legal framework regarding service charges. This serves to support the assertion of the reasonableness of service charges at the time and location they were provided and maintains the necessity of these services in legal disputes.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB1465 may arise around the balance between the necessity for efficiency in court proceedings and the rights of defendants to adequately contest claims made against them. Some stakeholders may argue that the new stipulations could inadvertently diminish the ability of defendants to effectively challenge claims, especially if they are required to meet specified deadlines for counteraffidavit submissions. The nuances of the bill suggest that while it could streamline procedures, it also necessitates careful consideration of how it affects litigant rights and due process.