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HB 1235

Clerks of circuit court; fees, restitution, online payment systems, report.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Karrie Delaney

HB 1235 modernizes Virginia circuit court clerk fee structures and mandates online payment systems for court services.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 759 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 1235

Legislative bill overview

HB 1235 addresses the fees and online payment systems administered by clerks of circuit courts in Virginia. The bill appears to authorize or modify fee structures and establish requirements for digital payment infrastructure that court clerks must maintain for public transactions. This would modernize how Virginia's court system collects fees and processes payments.

Why is this important

Court clerk fees fund essential judicial operations, and outdated payment systems create friction for citizens conducting legitimate court business. Modernizing online payment capabilities reduces barriers to accessing the justice system and can improve revenue collection efficiency for courts. Clear fee structures also provide transparency about what citizens must pay for court services.

Potential points of contention

  • Fee amounts: Any changes to clerk fees could be controversial, particularly if increases are substantial or disproportionately affect low-income Virginians seeking court services
  • Payment system costs: Implementation of robust online payment infrastructure requires significant upfront investment; debate may center on who bears these costs and whether fees should increase to offset them
  • Equity and access: Digital-only payment options could exclude citizens without internet access or technology literacy; physical payment alternatives and their availability will likely be scrutinized

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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