During its March, 2013 Conference, I understand that the Judicial Conference approved a $50.00 so-called "Administrative Fee" to be tacked on to the $350.00 fee for filing a complaint in federal court. That means if you want justice in the federal court, it'll begin by you cutting a check for $400.00 to the Clerk of Court. I believe this filing fee is too expensive and I take issue with the Judicial Conference not -- in my opinion -- allowing light to be shed on why the fee is being charged. I'm also curious whether the Judicial Conference provided a comment period whereby the public could speak-up about yet another tax packed aboard the narrow shoulders of the working man and the small business. Still, there are some exceptions unique to maritime claims when a filing fee need not be paid. Speak with your admiralty attorney to learn more.

Underway and making way.

By John Fulweiler

www.saltwaterlaw.com