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Bill

HB 3464

To establish civil liability for judges who knowingly violate the law, conduct unlawful hearings, or abuse litigants in the performance of their duties

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Butler and 1 co-sponsor

Overview: HB 3464, To establish civil liability for judges who knowingly violate the law, conduct unlawful hearings, or abuse litigants in the performance of their duties, To House

To House Judiciary
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Bill Summary · HB 3464

Overview: HB 3464, To establish civil liability for judges who knowingly violate the law, conduct unlawful hearings, or abuse litigants in the performance of their duties, To House Judiciary, Introduced: February 27, 2025, Subject: Courts

Purpose and Intent: The purpose of this bill is to establish civil liability for judges who engage in unlawful or abusive conduct in the performance of their judicial duties. The goal is to hold judges accountable for violations of the law and mistreatment of litigants.

Key Provisions:
- Allows individuals to file civil lawsuits against judges who:
- Knowingly violate the law or applicable rules of procedure
- Conduct unlawful hearings or proceedings
- Abuse, harass, or mistreat litigants appearing before them
- Provides for the recovery of damages, including compensatory and punitive damages, from judges found liable
- Requires the state to indemnify judges for any judgments or settlements, except in cases of willful or malicious misconduct

Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Judges, who may face increased civil liability for their actions and conduct on the bench
- Litigants and individuals who interact with the judicial system, who may have a new avenue for recourse against judicial misconduct
- The state, which would be responsible for indemnifying judges in certain cases

Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
- The bill has been referred to the House Judiciary committee for further consideration
- If passed, the new civil liability provisions would apply to judicial conduct going forward, potentially leading to an increase in lawsuits against judges

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

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