Bill > SB24

This bill increases the jurisdictional amount for statutory county courts in Texas from $250,000 to $325,000, which means these courts can now handle civil cases with a matter in controversy up to $325,000. The bill amends multiple sections of the Government Code to reflect this change, including provisions related to court rules, jurisdictional boundaries, jury composition, and clerk responsibilities. Specifically, the Supreme Court must adopt rules to promote efficient resolution of civil actions in county courts at law for cases under $325,000, statutory county courts now have concurrent jurisdiction with district courts for civil cases between $500 and $325,000, civil cases exceeding $325,000 will require a 12-member jury unless all parties agree otherwise, and the district clerk will serve as clerk for civil cases exceeding $325,000. The changes will only apply to civil cases filed on or after the bill's effective date, which is 91 days after the end of the legislative session, ensuring that existing cases are not disrupted by the new jurisdictional limits.