Assembly passes Rep. Marszalkowski and Sen. Murray’s legislation that exempts court fees for crime victims

            STATE HOUSE – The General Assembly today passed legislation (2024-H 7800A, 2024-S 2115A) sponsored by Rep. Alex D. Marszalkowski and Sen. Melissa A. Murray that would exempt crime victims seeking restitution from having to pay certain court fees.

            “Victims of crimes should not have to pay court fees to regain stolen property or to acquire justice and restitution for the crime perpetrated against them.  This bill will rectify an unfair aspect of our justice system that revictimizes crime victims who are simply attempting to get what is rightfully theirs,” said Representative Marszalkowski (D-Dist. 52, Cumberland).

            “This legislation will help victims of crimes gain the justice that they seek without costing them more money to pursue their claims.  Victims did not ask to be victimized, so it’s only fair that they should not be penalized with court and service costs in order to make themselves whole once again,” said Senator Murray (D-Dist. 24, Woonsocket, North Smithfield).

            The bill would waive the payment of any initial filing fees and service of process costs when the victim of a crime is still owed restitution at the expiration of a criminal case.  Subsequent filing fees and service of process costs may be waived at the discretion of the court.           

            The bill now heads to the governor for consideration.