Judge Weldon Cude

At the conclusion of the case, including any direct appeal, defense counsel must securely destroy the records and copies or return them to the County Attorney's Office for secure disposal.

Defense counsel must maintain confidentiality and prevent disclosure of the information to unauthorized persons.

DFPS records produced in the case are confidential, may be used only to prepare and try the case, and may be reviewed by defense personnel only as reasonably necessary and disclosed only as authorized by Article 39.14.

Applies to

Confidential documents

The State must attach a copy of this Protective Order as the first page of any confidential documents released to defense counsel.

Applies to

Original petition

The petitioner must file each available certified birth certificate with the petition.

Applies to

Petition or affidavit

If the certified birth certificate is unavailable, the petitioner must state that in the petition or a separate affidavit.

Hourly billing must include a complete out-of-court billing sheet, report time in tenths, and itemize investigation and expert-testimony charges as specified.

Documentary evidence, photos, and videos must be labeled.

Video evidence must be submitted on a USB device.

In a covered noncompliant original suit, the District Clerk must issue and serve the Standing Order on the petitioner, using Rule 21a or personal hand delivery at filing.

Documentary evidence, photos, and videos must be shared with opposing participants.

Service

Email to opposing party

Zoom-proceeding exhibits must be emailed to opposing participants by 3:00 p.m. on the business day before the proceeding.