MO HB1238

Repeals and replaces sections 488.012, 488.426, and 488.607 of Missouri law, and enacts two new sections (488.2206 and 488.2235) relating to court costs.

Establishes specific statutory court costs for various proceedings including filing fees ($5-$365 depending on case type), probate fees based on estate value ($75-$365), guardianship and conservatorship fees ($25-$75), and witness fees ($3-$4 per day).

Increases the maximum civil case surcharge in most circuits from an unspecified amount to $15, and in Jackson County or circuits reimbursing family court commissioner salaries to $20.

Authorizes counties and municipalities to impose criminal case surcharges of up to $4 per case for domestic violence shelters (increased from $2), and allows the 31st judicial circuit to impose up to $10 surcharges in criminal cases for judicial facility costs.

Creates a new provision allowing home rule cities with over 400,000 inhabitants spanning multiple counties to impose up to $5 per municipal ordinance violation for courthouse maintenance, effective until August 28, 2021.