FL S1396

Creates s. 25.025, F.S. allowing Supreme Court Justices who permanently reside outside Leon County to designate an official headquarters in their district of residence for use as private chambers only, with eligibility for subsistence allowance and transportation reimbursement as determined by the Chief Justice based on available appropriated funds.

Increases the number of circuit judges in the Ninth Judicial Circuit from 43 to 45 and adds county court judges in Citrus, Columbia, and Flagler counties (1 additional judge each) and Hillsborough County (2 additional judges).

Raises the jurisdictional threshold for county court actions at law from $15,000 to $50,000 for cases filed on or after January 1, 2020, with the limit adjusted every 5 years based on inflation/deflation using the Consumer Price Index, rounded to the nearest $5,000.

Requires sheriffs to provide security for trial court facilities while coordinating with chief judges but retaining operational control, and designates sheriffs and their deputies, employees, and contractors as officers of the court when providing such security.

Requires the Department of State or supervisor of elections to refund the full qualifying fee to unopposed candidates for circuit court or county court judge positions within 20 days after the qualifying period closes.