Kansas: Facing a budget crunch, Kansas legislators have decided to increase court fees and surcharges. The increases, which took effect on July 1, 2011, are not too dramatic individually, but all together they are estimated to raise $11 million for the court system. A judicial branch surcharge, which is assessed for almost all court cases, was raised from $17.50 to $22. In addition, fees for various court actions such as filing for divorce or a lawsuit were increased. The new costs are supposed to keep the court system afloat and eliminate the need to close the courts for days. It is also meant to take the burden off of taxpayers, although some argued that it makes things too difficult for those who have to go to court but are on a tight budget.[1]
- For the full list of new docket fees and surcharges, you can go here: FY 2012 Docket Fee and Surcharge Chart
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