Generally revise laws relating to judicial fees

2025 Regular Session

The bill seeks to overhaul and standardize judicial fee laws across courts, redefining fees, waivers, and collections.

(LC) Draft Died in Process

#courts(seealso:judgesandjustices;juriesandjurors)

Overview

LC 1578 is a proposed bill titled “Generally revise laws relating to judicial fees.” The title indicates a broad reform of the statutes governing fees associated with judicial system processes. Specific provisions, amounts, and procedural details are not provided in the information available, so this summary focuses on the bill’s stated purpose, the implied scope of reform, and the potential implications for stakeholders.

What the bill would do (as inferred from the title)

Overhaul the statutory framework governing judicial and court fees. This suggests changes to how fees are assessed, collected, and administered across various court processes.

Potentially update definitions related to “fees” and “costs,” and revise schedules or categories of fees charged for filings, services, transcripts, jury-related costs, and other court-related activities.

Possible adjustments to fee waivers or exemptions, revenue allocation from collected fees, and alignment with statewide financial or administrative goals.

May address consistency across courts, clerks’ offices, and other entities involved in fee collection and processing.

Note: The exact provisions, amounts, exemptions, or procedural steps would depend on the final text of the bill. The available information does not include the bill’s language.

Status and legislative history

Introduced: November 17, 2024

Drafter Assigned: November 17, 2024

On Hold: December 2, 2024

Draft Died in Process: May 26, 2025

These entries indicate that the bill did not advance toward enactment and ultimately died in the drafting process, though it remained on the legislative radar during the 2024–2025 cycle.

Potential impact and who would be affected

Litigants and counsel: Any changes to filing or service fees, waivers, or fee schedules could affect the cost of pursuing or defending claims.

Court administration and clerks: Administrative processes for fee assessment and collection would be influenced by changes to fee structures or definitions.

Judiciary and state budget: Revised fee revenue could impact court funding and resource allocation if new or adjusted fees are implemented.

Access to justice considerations: If fees are altered, provisions related to waivers or exemptions could affect affordability and self-representation.

Timeline and next steps

With the draft status closed as “Died in Process,” the bill is not currently moving toward enactment. If revived, it would need to be reintroduced and undergo standard committee reviews, potential amendments, and floor votes.

If you have the bill’s text or specific provisions, I can provide a more detailed, provision-by-provision analysis.

Bill