AOC raises filing fees 25% for circuit and district filings effective July 1

Director Zach Ramsey of the Administrative Office of the Courts told the Budget Review Subcommittee that a 25% increase in filing fees is effective July 1 for both circuit and district filings and that the office expects the change will move the agency toward structural balance this year.

"the 25% increase in filing fees is effective July 1 for both circuit and district filings. They anticipate being structurally balanced this year," Ramsey said. Chairwoman Representative Stephanie Dietz urged increased communication with trial‑level judges and clerks, saying such outreach would help legislators who are fielding many constituent questions. Ramsey agreed and said the department has been engaging regional forums to inform stakeholders.

What was not specified in the presentation was the dollar revenue estimate tied to the fee increase and whether the fee schedule change required any external approval beyond the AOC and Supreme Court process described in the reorganization briefing.