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.
Impact
The establishment of the Fifteenth Court of Appeals could reshape the current landscape of Texas's judicial system. It would amend various sections of the Government Code, altering the functional jurisdiction of appellate courts. This bill anticipates an increase in the capacity to adjudicate civil cases, potentially reducing wait times for hearings and appeals. However, the bill hinges on a specific appropriation from the legislature to fund the court, without which its creation will not take effect.
Summary
House Bill 3166 proposes the creation of the Fifteenth Court of Appeals, which would have jurisdiction over certain civil cases across Texas. The bill outlines the structure of the court, consisting of a chief justice and four justices, all of whom would be elected statewide. The court is intended to enhance the state’s appellate system by providing a venue specifically for civil matters, indicating a stratification of the judicial system that could potentially streamline the handling of certain types of cases that may otherwise congest the existing courts.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 3166 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the bill will enhance the efficiency of the judicial process concerning civil cases, while critics question the necessity and cost of establishing another level of court. During committee discussions, some members expressed concern over the lack of data supporting the creation of the new court, indicating a divide regarding its expected effectiveness and fiscal implications. There is also apprehension about additional governmental structures and their potential impacts on judicial autonomy.
Contention
A significant point of contention within the discussions pertained to the justification for creating the Fifteenth Court of Appeals. Critics, including representatives from the Third Court of Appeals, brought up the absence of empirical data to substantiate the need for this additional court. They voiced concerns about the legality and constitutionality of the changes proposed under the bill, suggesting that the establishment of another appellate court could complicate the existing judicial framework. The debate highlights ongoing discussions about judicial efficiency versus the need for streamlined governance.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 22. Appellate Courts
Section: New Section
Section: 2151
Section: 220
Chapter 73. Administration Of Courts Of Appeals
Section: New Section
Chapter 31. Additional Compensation Of Justices Of Courts Of Appeal
Section: New Section
Chapter 2001. Administrative Procedure
Section: 038
Section: 176
Code Of Criminal Procedure
Chapter 4. Courts And Criminal Jurisdiction
Section: New Section
Chapter 44. Appeal And Writ Of Error
Section: 25
Utilities Code
Chapter 39. Restructuring Of Electric Utility Industry
Identical
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.
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.
Relating to notices of appeals for matters within the exclusive intermediate appellate jurisdiction of the Court of Appeals for the Fifteenth Court of Appeals District.
Relating to the organization of the Court of Appeals for the Thirteenth Court of Appeals District and to the creation of the Fifteenth Court of Appeals District.
Relating to jurisdiction, venue, and appeals in certain matters, including the jurisdiction of and appeals from certain courts and administrative decisions and the appointment of counsel in certain appeals.
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.
Relating to the organization of the Court of Appeals for the Thirteenth Court of Appeals District and to the creation of the Fifteenth Court of Appeals District.
Requests the Senate Committee on Judiciary A to study the feasibility of dividing the Fifteenth Judicial District into three single-parish judicial districts.
Provides for the incorporation of the fifteenth ward of the parish of Orleans as a municipality within the parish of Orleans (RE +$50,000 LF EX See Note)