SENATE BILL REPORT

                  SHB 2401

                    As of February 16, 1998

Title:  An act relating to the courthouse facilitator program.

Brief Description:  Clarifying the authority of courthouse facilitators.

Sponsors:  House Committee on Law & Justice (originally sponsored by Representatives Sheahan and Hatfield).

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Law & Justice:  2/18/98.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE

Staff:  Lidia Mori (786-7755)

Background:  In 1993, the Legislature provided authority for counties to create courthouse facilitator programs.  The purpose of the courthouse facilitator program is to provide basic services to pro se litigants in family law cases. 

The legislation allowed the counties to impose a user fee, surcharges of up to $10 on domestic relations cases filed in superior court, or both, to pay for the expenses of the courthouse facilitator program.  Eleven counties have operated a courthouse facilitator program and have used the surcharge provision to generate funds.

The legislation does not address the limits of the services the courthouse facilitators may provide, except to stipulate the program is for "basic services."

Summary of Bill:  A limitation is placed upon the type of service courthouse facilitators may provide.  Consistent with local court rules, courthouse facilitators may refer pro se litigants to lawyers and social services, but may not provide any professional services, even if licensed as a professional provider.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.