USFN | Kansas Raises Fee to File Civil Case

Kansas Raises Fee to File Civil Case

by Michael L. Zevitz
South & Associates – USFN Member (MO, KS)

Filing most cases in Kansas courts became more expensive as of July 1, 2009, when a $10 rate increase went into effect, raising the cost of a civil filing to $166, which includes foreclosure cases. The fee increase comes as a result of the court system’s attempt to grapple with budget shortfalls. The Office of Judicial Administration estimated that the rate increase will generate $5 million this year, which would put a dent in the $15.9 million shortfall the judicial branch faces. Other cost-cutting maneuvers also have chipped away $2.8 million, and the court applied for a $2.6 million grant from the federal stimulus effort. On top of the $166 filing fee, it will cost an additional $10 for an Order of Sale, and $10 more to file a Writ of Assistance to evict the occupants of the house.