Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Judiciary Committee |
SB 5125
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Title: An act relating to district court civil jurisdiction.
Brief Description: Increasing district court civil jurisdiction.
Sponsors: Senators Padden, Darneille, Roach and Hatfield.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/18/15
Staff: Brent Campbell (786-7152).
Background:
There are four levels of courts in Washington: (1) the Supreme Court; (2) the Court of
Appeals; (3) the superior courts; and (4) courts of limited jurisdiction (district and municipal courts).
Superior courts are courts of general jurisdiction. They generally have no limit on the types of civil and criminal cases heard. They also hear appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction.
District courts also have jurisdiction over both criminal and civil cases, but they are limited in the types of cases they may hear. District courts have no jurisdiction in civil actions where the value of the claim or the amount at issue exceeds $75,000.
Summary of Bill:
District courts are given jurisdiction over certain civil actions if the value of the claim of each claimant or the amount at issue does not exceed $100,000.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.