Bexar County Courts at Law
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Courtesy Copies
Signed Order
Adjournments
- Other-jurisdiction matters are not grounds to reset or continue a Bexar County trial- or motion-calendar case; for a special out-of-county setting, the attorney must give the Presiding Judge written notice at least 10 days beforehand stating its date and place, and the judge may permit participation and continue the case to the next available setting.
Communication
Phone
Clerk
Phone
Phone
Document Format Requirements18 rules
E-file Proposed Order as separate lead document for review and approval prior to setting hearing.
- Proposed order
Formatting
- •E-file the Proposed Order as a separate lead document
No handwritten ODLs or IRLs will be considered;
ALL motions must be in writing and filed / served in accordance with the Local Rules of the Bexar County Courts at Law and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
ALL motions must be in writing and filed/served in accordance with the Local Rules of the Bexar County Courts at Law and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
Accordingly, all attorneys are required to maintain competence in the technologies required for remote court proceedings.
Attorneys are required to use a device that has video capabilities for remote proceedings.
The State must produce the specified Solution File items as an electronic PDF copy.
- File type
Formatting
- •Electronic copy
Court's wording
THE COURT HEREBY ORDERS the State to produce the following designated documents pursuant to Article 39.14 of the Code of Criminal Procedure: 2. An electronic copy (.pdf) of any and all items contained and maintained in the "Solution File" as required by OSD-TST-015.5, for the Intoxilyzer solution used for the test in this case.
The State must produce the specified Instrument Certificate File items as an electronic PDF copy.
- File type
Formatting
- •Electronic copy
Court's wording
THE COURT HEREBY ORDERS the State to produce the following designated documents pursuant to Article 39.14 of the Code of Criminal Procedure: 1. An electronic copy (.pdf) of any and all items contained and maintained in the "Instrument Certificate File" as required by the Standard Operating Guidelines for Technical Supervisors (OSD-TST-01 5.A) for the Intoxilyzer used for the test in this case.
Please cross through actions that do not apply
Please cross through actions that do not apply
Documents and bench notes for the sample must be segregated from all other documents produced.
Court's wording
23. If not contained in item number 23, all documents and bench notes contained within the folder or file for the sample in this case, including a copy of any note or notation on the sample folder or file. These documents shall be segregated from all other documents produced.
We ask attorneys to bill in .1 hour increments. The Court doesn’t permit .25 hours as a minimum billing increment because many tasks (opening and reviewing a bill, sending a short email, etc.) take only a few minutes. It overreaches to always claim 15 minutes for anything you do. The Court can’t find that .25 hours is universally reasonable and necessary when the task may have taken considerably less time.
FIAT is required, please use one of the templates located on the PC2 Website.
Proposed Judgment declaring heirship e-filed for review prior to hearing (this should be separate from the Order of Administration.) Either have fully executed signatures or remove signature blocks.
Please cross through actions that do not apply
If needed, include extra pages to provide additional information.
Formatting
- •Extra pages may be included when needed to provide additional information
An easily readable copy is fine.
An easily readable copy is fine.
Document Filing Requirements341 rules
State facts as to why any alternatives are not feasible to avoid guardianship (e.g. there is a power of attorney in place, but Proposed Ward refuses to permit agent to serve).
Correct name, gender, birth date, and address of Proposed Ward.
Correct name, former name, relationship, and address of Applicant – if other person to be appointed, this information as well.
Nature and degree of incapacity and specific areas of protection and assistance requested.
FIAT is required, please use one of the templates attached. FIAT is required, please use one of the templates located on the PC2 Website.
State facts as to why supports and services considered are not feasible to avoid guardianship (e.g. services are in place but Proposed Ward refuses caregivers in the home).
The application title must identify the guardianship relief requested.
Court's wording
Title of Application must reflect what you are requesting, e.g. Application to Appoint Guardian of Person Only or Application to Appoint Guardian of the Estate Only or Application to Appoint Guardian of the Person and Estate with Limited Authority
Name and address of any person or institution having care and custody of the Proposed Ward.
Each party to include in their pleadings the party’s last three numbers of social security if issued and driver’s license if issued. CPRC §30.014
The order must include any limitation or termination of rights, including the listed rights and decisions.
Court's wording
Limitation or termination of rights to be included in order; right to vote; hold license to operate motor vehicle; personal decisions regarding residence; right to marry; right to possess, carry or own firearm.
Affidavit of Notice. §1051.104
Motion and Order appointing Attorney ad litem.
Name and address of person holding power of attorney(s), (medical, financial, limited).
Resident Agent as applicable.
- Document
- Resident agent
Include
- •Resident Agent as applicable
E-file Proposed Order for review and approval as separate lead document prior to requesting hearing date that includes proper title and language.
JBCC registration and training completed.
Include
- •JBCC registration and training completed
Citation returned.
- Document
- Citation return
Include
- •Citation returned
Approximate value and detailed description of Proposed Ward’s property: Liquid assets, including compensation, pension, insurance, or allowance and Non-liquid assets including real property.
Background check completed (fingerprints for liquid assets over $50,000 or non-resident)
Certificate of Medical Examination by a Texas licensed physician §1101.103 or if intellectual disability is basis Determination of Intellectual Disability completed on CME. §1101.104
Answer of Attorney ad litem.
- Document
- Answer
Include
- •Answer of Attorney ad litem
For minor: All persons listed under 1101.001.
E-file unsigned Oath (clearly stating appointment, for example Guardian of Person or Guardian of Estate or Co-Guardians) for review prior to requesting hearing date.
The attorney verification must confirm that the required hearing documents are correct, e-filed, and accepted by the Probate Clerk, and provides spaces for a signature and date.
Court's wording
I, _____________________________________ confirm that all required documents for the hearing I am requesting in Cause No. ____________-PC-______________ are correct and have been e-filed and accepted by the Bexar County Probate Clerk’s office. Signed: _________________________________________Date:__________________________
If a party requests a de novo hearing, they must file the request with the County Clerk following Texas Government Code 54A.216, and promptly provide a copy to the Court Administrator.
Applicants must submit the prescribed proposed form and order in substantial compliance with the attached form, with every blank accurately completed.
Court's wording
IT IS, THEREFORE, ORDERED that effective for all small estate affidavits filed on or after September 1, 2019, all applicants who submit a Small Estate Affidavit for consideration by the Bexar County Probate Courts shall submit the proposed form and order in substantial compliance with the form of order attached to this Administrative Order No. 2019-02, and available on the Probate Court web site with all blanks filled in with accurate and appropriate information.
A copy of Decedent's death certificate will be filed in this cause number at the time this Affidavit is filed.
C. Decedent was a resident of and domiciled in County, Texas, at the time of Decedent's death. [If not Bexar County, the affidavit must include facts supporting venue in Bexar County.]
H. Medicaid - check the accurate box:
If applicants indicate that there is no Medicaid claim, they must file a MERP certification or include information proving that no MERP claim will be filed.
Court's wording
The Decedent did apply for and receive Medicaid benefits on or after March 1, 2005, but there is no Medicaid claim against the estate. [If this box is checked, applicant(s) must either (1) file a Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP) certification that decedent's estate is not subject to a MERP claim or (2) include additional information proving that a MERP claim will not be filed.]
If decedent was married, indicate: • whether each asset was community or separate property, and • facts that explain why the asset was community or separate, and • total value of each community property asset.
List each asset with enough detail to identify exactly what the asset is. For example, give bank name and last four digits of an account number; give life insurance company name; give description of car plus VIN number; give address & legal description of real property.
If decedent was survived by a spouse, minor children, or unmarried adult children who lived with decedent, the list of known estate assets must indicate which assets applicant claims are exempt. See checklist for more information.
All assets of the Decedent's estate and their values are listed here.
An affidavit cannot be approved with an asset of "unknown" value.
On the date of Decedent's death, Decedent was a single person. OR On the date of Decedent's death, Decedent was married to The date they were married:
If funeral debts or attorney's fees and expenses will be paid from estate assets, list them here.
Complete the family-history section by checking the appropriate boxes and providing the additional information indicated.
Court's wording
K. The following facts regarding Decedent's family history show who is entitled to what share of Decedent's estate, to the extent that the assets of Decedent's estate, exclusive of homestead and exempt property, exceed the liabilities of Decedent's estate. [Put check marks in the appropriate small boxes, and provide additional information as indicated.]
As of the date the affidavit is signed, it must list all existing estate debts and liabilities, including unpaid credit card, medical, and utility bills.
Court's wording
J. All liabilities/debts of the Decedent's estate and their values must be listed here, as of the date the affidavit is signed. The affidavit must list all of Decedent's existing debts and other liabilities including all credit card balances, doctor and hospital bills, utility bills, etc. - everything owed by Decedent or Decedent's estate and not paid off.
Family History #3: Children, part 2. Answer if Decedent had any children.
If parental rights were terminated for any child, give details on separate page(s).
name of the deceased child's died (if any of these children died before Decedent, use a separate page to other parent in parentheses) give date of death, plus names & birth dates of all grandchildren
List all children, whether or not the child is still alive and whether or not parental rights were later terminated.
The following of Decedent's children, by birth or adoption, died before the Decedent's death and were not survived by any children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren: Name of deceased child Date child died
The following are all of Decedent's brothers and sisters who were alive on the date Decedent died, including half-brothers and half-sisters who were born to either of Decedent's parents. If none, write "none." If any of the following are now deceased, indicate date of death.
For each sibling who died before the Decedent, provide the sibling’s name, death date, whether the sibling was full or half, and the names and birth dates of the sibling’s children who were alive when the Decedent died.
Court's wording
The following of Decedent's brothers and sisters (including half-brothers and half-sisters who were born to either of Decedent's parents) died before Decedent's death. If none, write "none." Name of deceased brother or Full or Names of all children of deceased brother or sister (followed by the date of half sister (nephews and nieces of Decedent) that Birth dates of nieces death in parentheses) sibling? were alive on the date Decedent died. & nephews
The following of Decedent's brothers and sisters (including half-brothers and half-sisters who were born to either of Decedent's parents) died before Decedent's death. If none, write "none."
EVERYONE MUST FILL OUT THE FOLLOWING CHART.
If the decedent was survived by none of the listed relatives, provide a separate page listing all surviving relatives and enough family-history detail to explain each relationship.
Court's wording
Fill out a separate page (or pages) if Decedent was survived by none of the following: spouse, child, grandchild, parent, brother, sister, half-brother, half-sister, niece, or nephew. If Decedent was survived by none of the above, list all of the surviving relatives of Decedent on a separate page. Specify Decedent's family history with respect to each of the survivors, giving sufficient detail about names, birth dates, death dates, and relationships to explain how each survivor is related to Decedent.
Share of decedent's community property (if decedent was married, you must always fill out this column)
Share of separate real property (this column MUST be filled out, even if you do not list any real property)
For each distributee, the chart must identify the person and list the person's contact information and fractional interests in the decedent's estate.
Court's wording
Based on the family history given in this Affidavit, the following chart lists all of the Decedent's heirs at law, together with their fractional interests in Decedent's estate: For each Distributee, list: Share of separate Share of separate real Share of decedent's 1. Name personal property property community property 2. Address (this column MUST (this column MUST be (if decedent was married, 3. Telephone number be filled out) filled out, even if you do you must always fill out 4. Email address not list any real property) this column
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
E-file an unsigned oath clearly stating the appointment for review before requesting a hearing date.
E-file unsigned Oath (clearly stating appointment, for example Guardian of Person or Guardian of Estate or Co-Guardians) for review prior to requesting hearing date.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Appointment of Guardian
E-file a properly titled and worded proposed order as a separate lead document for review and approval before requesting a hearing date.
E-file Proposed Order for review and approval as separate lead document prior to requesting hearing date that includes proper title and language.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Appointment of Guardian
Required documents for a requested hearing must be e-filed and accepted by the Bexar County Probate Clerk.
I, _____________________________________ confirm that all required documents for the hearing I am requesting in Cause No. ____________-PC-______________ are correct and have been e-filed and accepted by the Bexar County Probate Clerk’s office.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Attorney Verification
Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 21(±) states that attorneys must file documents electronically in courts where electronic filing has been mandated. Rule 21(±) also provides exceptions as to which documents shall not be filed electronically. The exceptions provided in the rule do not include bonds.
Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 21(±) states that attorneys must file documents electronically in courts where electronic filing has been mandated. Rule 21(±) also provides exceptions as to which documents shall not be filed electronically. The exceptions provided in the rule do not include bonds.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Presiding State Statutory Probate Judge Administrative Order 2020-5
E-file appropriate case documents, including proposed orders, the Statement of Facts, and Proof of Death, with the Probate Clerk for review.
Procedures: Please e-file all appropriate documents for your case with the Bexar County Probate Clerk’s office, including Proposed Orders, Statement of Facts and Proof of Death for review.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Procedures
E-file the executed Statement of Facts from witnesses for heirs-at-law before the hearing.
E-file executed Statement of Facts from witnesses for heirs-at-law prior to hearing
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
If the Will is not self-proved, e-file the unsigned affidavit for signature before the hearing.
E-file unsigned Affidavit for signature (if not self-proved) prior to hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
E-file the unsigned Oath for review before setting the hearing.
E-file unsigned Oath for review prior to setting hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
E-file the unsigned Proof of Death for review before setting the hearing.
E-file unsigned Proof of Death for review prior to setting hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
E-file the Proposed Order as a separate lead document for review and approval before setting the hearing.
E-file Proposed Order as separate lead document for review and approval prior to setting hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
Attorneys must electronically file motions in accordance with the applicable Bexar County civil e-filing rules and Texas Supreme Court orders.
L. Motions filed by attorneys shall be electronically filed in accordance with the Bexar County Local Rules of the County Courts concerning Electronic Filing of Court Documents in Civil Cases and all applicable Texas Supreme Court Orders.
Page 6 | L
Attorneys must electronically file documents, subject to an emergency exception, while pro se defendants may e-file but are not required to do so.
E. Pursuant to the Order Mandating Statewide Electronic Filing in Criminal Cases, Misc. Docket No. 16-003, issued by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals on the 30th of June, 2016, Electronic filing is mandatory in criminal cases effective July 1, 2017. All attorneys must electronically file documents through any alternative electronic document filing transmission system, except in the event of an emergency. Any document filed by an attorney that is not filed in accordance with the order may not be accepted, except in the event of an emergency. Pro se defendants may also electronically file documents, but it is not required.
Page 9 | VI. PRE-TRIAL MOTIONS, HEARINGS, OTHER MATTERS
E-file all appropriate case documents, including the listed documents, with the Probate Clerk for review.
Please e-file all appropriate documents for your case with the Bexar County Probate Clerk’s office, including Proposed Orders, Judgments, Affidavits of Heirship, and Proof of Death for review.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Procedures
All filings must be submitted through the electronic filing system unless an exception applies under the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.
Pursuant to Texas Supreme Court mandates, all filings must be submitted through the electronic filing system unless an exception applies under the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.
Page 2 | Rule 1.4 Electronic Filing
A hearing will not be scheduled until the underlying motion or application has been electronically filed and a cause number assigned.
No hearing will be scheduled until the underlying motion or application has been electronically filed and a cause number has been assigned.
Page 4 | Rule 4.1 Coordination with the Court
The proposed order must be provided through the electronic filing system’s Proposed Orders queue.
a) Submission of Order: The moving party must provide the Court with a "Proposed Order" via the electronic filing system's "Proposed Orders" queue at the time the Notice of Submission is filed.
Page 12 | Rule 11.4 Proposed Orders
E-file a proposed order as a separate lead document for review and approval before requesting a hearing date, using the proper title and muniment-of-title language.
E-file Proposed Order for review and approval as separate lead document prior to requesting hearing date that includes proper title and language on Probating Will as Muniment of Title More Than 4 Years After Death.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Muniment of Title After 4 Years
E-file a statement of facts regarding heirs from two disinterested witnesses; the witnesses need not appear if it is properly executed, e-filed, and accepted by the clerk before requesting a hearing date.
E-file statement of facts regarding heirs from 2 disinterested witnesses – witnesses do not need to appear if properly executed, e-filed, and accepted by the clerk prior to requesting hearing date.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Muniment of Title After 4 Years
E-file an unsigned oath of no debts for review before requesting a hearing date.
E-file unsigned Oath of No Debts for review prior to requesting hearing date.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Muniment of Title After 4 Years
E-file an unsigned proof of death for review before requesting a hearing date.
E-file unsigned Proof of Death for review prior to requesting hearing date.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Muniment of Title After 4 Years
IT IS, THEREFORE, ORDERED that effective immediately the courts shall adopt the attached administrative order 2020-05 for e-filing of bonds and bond riders in decedent's estates and guardianships.
IT IS, THEREFORE, ORDERED that effective immediately the courts shall adopt the attached administrative order 2020-05 for e-filing of bonds and bond riders in decedent's estates and guardianships.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Administrative Order on E-Filing of Bonds and Bond Riders in Decedent's Estates and Guardianships
A bond may be filed electronically with a statutory probate court clerk.
It is, therefore, ORDERED that a bond can be filed electronically with a clerk of a statutory probate court.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Presiding State Statutory Probate Judge Administrative Order 2020-5
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
The State must produce the listed items by the 60th day after a DWI Information is filed; later production will be reviewed case by case for admissibility.
THE STATE IS ORDERED to produce the above-listed items on or before the 60th day of the date a DWI Information is filed. The State's production of any of these items after the 60th day will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the Blood Test Result will be admissible at a Defendant's trial.
Criminal cases
Page 5 | Defense Right to Inspection
For DWI cases filed before the order was signed, the State must produce the listed items by February 2, 2024; later production will be reviewed case by case for admissibility.
Regarding DWI cases that have already been filed prior to the date this order is signed, THE STATH IS ORDERED to produce the above-listed items on or before February 2, 2024. The State's production of any of the above listed items after this deadline will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to detemine whether the Blood Test Result will be admissible at the Defendant's trial.
Criminal cases
Page 5 | Defense Right to Inspection
Vouchers will not be accepted after 180 days unless good cause is shown.
No vouchers will be accepted after 180 days absent good cause shown.
Criminal cases
Page 3 | IV. Election and Submission of Payment Claims
Misdemeanor payment claims must be submitted to the judge of the county court where the case was heard upon case disposition and/or completion of the representation.
All claims for misdemeanor payment must be verified, in writing, and must be submitted to the respective Judge of the County Court where the case was heard through disposition upon disposition of the case and/or completion of the representation.
Criminal cases
Page 3 | IV. Election and Submission of Payment Claims
The affidavits concerning heirs-at-law must be filed before the hearing unless the live-testimony alternative is used and reduced to writing.
Need affidavits from two disinterested witnesses on the heirs-at-law filed prior to hearing OR with live testimony and reduced to writing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
The Proposed Order must be filed before setting the hearing.
E-file Proposed Order as separate lead document for review and approval prior to setting hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
The unsigned Oath must be filed before setting the hearing.
E-file unsigned Oath for review prior to setting hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
The executed Statement of Facts from witnesses for heirs-at-law must be filed before the hearing.
E-file executed Statement of Facts from witnesses for heirs-at-law prior to hearing
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
If the Will is not self-proved, the unsigned affidavit for signature must be filed before the hearing.
E-file unsigned Affidavit for signature (if not self-proved) prior to hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
The unsigned Proof of Death must be filed before setting the hearing.
E-file unsigned Proof of Death for review prior to setting hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
THE STATE IS ORDERED to produce the above-listed items on or before the 60th dry of the date a DWI hformation is filed. The State's production of any of these items after the 60th day will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the Breath Test Result will be admissible at a Defendant's trial.
THE STATE IS ORDERED to produce the above-listed items on or before the 60th dry of the date a DWI hformation is filed. The State's production of any of these items after the 60th day will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the Breath Test Result will be admissible at a Defendant's trial.
Criminal cases
Page 3
For DWI cases filed before the order was signed, the State must produce the listed items by December 31, 2023; later production will be reviewed case by case for admissibility.
Regarding DWI cases that have already been filed prior to the date this order is signed, TIIE STATu IS ORDERED to produce the above-listed items on orbeforeDecember31,2023. The State's production of any of the above listed items after this deadline will be reviewed on a case-by¢ase basis to determine whether the Breath Test Result will be admissible at the Defendant's trial.
Criminal cases
Page 3
File the Oath and Bond within 20 days.
File your Oath and Bond within 20 days.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
File the Inventory, Appraisement and List of Claims within 90 days.
File your Inventory, Appraisement and List of Claims within 90 days.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
Within two months, mail each secured creditor a registered or certified letter with return receipt requested.
Within two months, you must mail a registered or certified letter, return receipt requested, to each secured creditor of the estate.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
If the estate remains open after the first year, file an annual account by the 60th day after the first anniversary of the qualification date.
If the estate is not closed within the first year, you must file an annual account not later than the 60th day after the first anniversary of your qualification date (see #3 above).
Civil cases
Page 1 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
Within 30 days, publish notice of the appointment to estate creditors in a newspaper of general circulation in the county.
Within 30 days, publish your notice to creditors of the estate in a newspaper of general circulation in this county, advising all creditors of your appointment.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
If the decedent had a will, give the named beneficiaries the required statutory notice within 60 days after the will is probated.
If decedent had a will, you must give a statutorily required notice to the beneficiaries named in the will within 60 days of the date the will is probated.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
Continue filing annual accounts until the estate is ready to close, no later than the 60th day after each qualification-date anniversary.
Until the estate is ready to be closed, you must continue filing annual accounts not later than the 60th day after each anniversary of your qualification date.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
File the Final Accounting when the estate is ready to close.
File your Final Accounting when the estate is ready to be closed, and seek the order of the Court authorizing the distribution of the estate in accordance with Court order or with the terms of the will when the estate has been finally administered.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
Required information must be provided by 12:00 p.m. the day before the hearing or the case may not be assigned.
Failure to provide the required information at least by 12:00 p.m. the day before your hearing is set may result in your case not being assigned.
Civil cases · Court notice
Page 1 | CIVIL COUNTY COURT NOTICE REGARDING REQUIRED INFORMATION TO BE INCLUDED IN ALL FIATS OR NOTICES OF SETTINGS
For the specified October–December 2020 settings not already updated, the fiat or notice must be amended with all required information and the amendment filed immediately.
If you have a current setting for October through December, 2020, on the Civil County Court Presiding Court dockets, and have not already done so, you must amend your fiat or notice of setting to include all required information and file that amendment immediately.
Civil cases · Court notice
Page 1 | CIVIL COUNTY COURT NOTICE REGARDING REQUIRED INFORMATION TO BE INCLUDED IN ALL FIATS OR NOTICES OF SETTINGS
THE STATE IS ORDERED to produce the above-listed items on or before the 60th day of the date a DWI Information is filed. The State's production of any of these items after the 60th day will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the Breath Test Result will be admissible at a Defendant's trial.
THE STATE IS ORDERED to produce the above-listed items on or before the 60th day of the date a DWI Information is filed. The State's production of any of these items after the 60th day will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the Breath Test Result will be admissible at a Defendant's trial.
Criminal cases
Page 3 | Production Deadlines and Effective Date
For DWI cases filed before the order was signed, the State must produce the listed items by February 2, 2024; later production will be reviewed case by case for admissibility.
Regarding DWI cases that have already been filed prior to the date this order is signed, THE STATE IS ORDERED to produce the above-listed items on or before February 2, 2024. The State's production of any of the above listed items after this deadline will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the Breath Test Result will be admissible at the Defendant's trial.
Criminal cases
Page 3 | Production Deadlines and Effective Date
The affidavit must be filed before the 181st day after the will is admitted to probate as a muniment of title.
This affidavit must be filed before the 181st day after the will is admitted to probate as a muniment of title.
Civil cases
Page 2 | APPLICANT’S REPORTING REQUIREMENT (Texas Estates Code 257.103)
Unless waived by the court, the affidavit of fulfillment must be filed within 180 days after the will is admitted to probate.
Unless waived by the court, an affidavit of fulfillment of terms must be filed within 180 days of the date that the will is admitted to probate.
Civil cases
Page 2 | COURT PROCESS
If you did not take the oath at the hearing, you should take it within 20 days after the Court signed the appointment order.
Your oath, if not taken at the hearing, should be taken no later than 20 days from the date the Court signed the order appointing you as Independent Administrator.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Your Qualification
The creditor notice must be published within 30 days after qualification.
Within 30 days after you have qualified (taken and filed the oath and given any required bond), you must publish your notice to creditors in a newspaper of general circulation in this county, advising all creditors of your appointment.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Notice to Creditors of the Estate
The notice to each secured creditor must be mailed within two months after qualification.
Within two months after your qualification, you must mail a registered or certified letter, return receipt requested, to each secured creditor of the estate.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Notice to Creditors of the Estate
Service and Proof of Service Rules
For the listed persons, file proof of service by qualifying mail or the applicable waivers.
File Proof of Personal Process (by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, or by any other form of mail that provides proof of delivery) or Waiver of Process, Waiver to Serve, as applicable. Adult children Adult sibling Administrator of nursing home or operator of residential facility Power(s) of Attorney Person designated to serve as guardian by written declaration Other living relatives (as applicable see statutes).
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Appointment of Guardian
Proof of service must be provided.
Proof of Service. §1051.153
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Appointment of Guardian
File proof of personal service of citation on a Proposed Ward over age 12.
File Proof of Personal Service of Citation on Proposed Ward over the age of 12. §1051.103
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Appointment of Guardian
File proof of personal service of citation with the required notice, or the specified waivers, for the listed persons.
File Proof of Personal Service of Citation (with notice of right to receive notice about ward) or Waiver of Process, Waiver of priority to Serve. §1051.103 Mother Father Conservator or person having control of the care and welfare of Proposed Ward Spouse Non-applicant person to be named guardian
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Appointment of Guardian
Citation to heirs-at-law by personal service.
Citation to heirs-at-law by personal service.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
Service by mail must occur at least 20 days before the return day of service.
Service by mail requires at least 20 days before the return day of service.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
For probate of only a copy of a codicil, beneficiaries of the original Will must receive personal citation or execute an affidavit waiving citation that acknowledges notice of the copy-codicil probate.
If probating a copy of a codicil only, the beneficiaries of the Original Will tendered are served with personal citation or beneficiaries must execute an affidavit waiving citation specifically stating they have received notice that a copy of a codicil is being probated.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Checklist for Probating a Copy of a Will or Codicil
Effective April 1, 2021, the sheriff or constable must serve citations or notices requiring or requesting personal service on individuals in Texas unless a statute provides otherwise.
IT IS, THEREFORE, ORDERED that effective April 1, 2021, where personal service of citation or notice is required or requested on an individual who is in this state, personal service of citation or notice shall be served by the sheriff or constable unless otherwise specifically provided for by statute.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Administrative Order on Personal Service in Estates of Decedents Under Title 2, Subtitle 8, Section 51.051(b) of the Texas Estates Code
When personal service is required or requested for a person without an attorney of record, or service on the attorney is unsuccessful, the sheriff or constable must serve the citation or notice unless the person is absent or a nonresident, or the court orders alternate or substituted service.
Texas Estates Code Section 51.051 (b) provides that when personal service of citation or notice is required or requested on a person who does not have an attorney of record, or if an attempt of service on the attorney of record is unsuccessful, personal service of citation or notice shall be served by the sheriff or constable, unless the person to be cited or notified is absent from or is not a resident of this state or alternate/substituted service is granted by the court upon proper motion and order in accordance with the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure 106(b).
Civil cases
Page 1 | Administrative Order on Personal Service in Estates of Decedents Under Title 2, Subtitle 8, Section 51.051(b) of the Texas Estates Code
Serve each secured creditor by registered or certified mail with return receipt requested.
Within two months, you must mail a registered or certified letter, return receipt requested, to each secured creditor of the estate.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
Serve creditors with notice by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the county.
Within 30 days, publish your notice to creditors of the estate in a newspaper of general circulation in this county, advising all creditors of your appointment.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
All evidence favorable to the Defendant must be produced.
**THE COURT FURTHER ORDERS** that under the authority of *Brady v. Maryland*, 373 US 83; 83 S.Ct. 1194 (1963), all evidence favorable to the Defendant is to be produced.
Criminal cases
Page 4
The State must make subsequent discoverable matter covered by the order available to the Defendant’s attorney within 48 hours after learning of or obtaining it.
**THE COURT FURTHER ORDERS** that this order is continuing and the State will immediately make available to the Defendant's attorney any subsequent discoverable matter within the scope of the above granted items within 48 hours of the time it learns of or obtains such discoverable matter.
Criminal cases
Page 4
The State must provide the covered evidence to the Defendant’s attorney’s office by 5:00 p.m. on the 60th day after the order is signed, unless the parties agree otherwise.
**THE COURT FURTHER ORDERS** that any evidence within the scope of the items granted above be provided by the State to the Defendant's attorney's office on or before 5:00 p.m. on the 60th day after this order is signed, or otherwise by mutual agreement.
Criminal cases
Page 4
Evidence tending to negate guilt or mitigate the offense must be disclosed and produced by 5:00 p.m. on the day it is discovered, unless otherwise agreed.
Additionally, as per the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 3.09(d), ("Duties of District Attorneys" requires that "[t]he prosecutor in a criminal case shall:...make timely disclosure to the defense of all evidence or information known to the prosecutor that tends to negate the guilt of the accused or mitigates the offense...") evidence that tends to negate guilt or mitigate the offense shall be disclosed. Said evidence is to be produced on or before 5:00 p.m. on the day of its discovery or by agreement.
Criminal cases
Page 5
Until the Texas Supreme Court resolves the issue, personal in-state service of a guardianship application on a proposed ward must be performed by a sheriff or constable.
It is therefore ORDERED that personal in-state ser\1ce of a guardianship application on a proposed \•vard shall be done by the sheriff or constable pursuant to Estates Code§ 1051.051(b)(1) until the issue of whether such service by pri\'ate process server is effective is resolvec 1.Jy tr.e Texas Supreme Court in In re the Guardiansh(v of James F. Fairley.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Presiding State Statutory Probate Judge Administrative Order 2021-1
The county clerk issues a citation that is posted outside the courthouse for 10 days.
The county clerk prepares and issues a citation, which is posted outside the courthouse for 10 days.
Civil cases
Page 1 | COURT PROCESS
Within two months after qualification, you must mail each secured creditor a registered or certified letter with return receipt requested.
Within two months after your qualification, you must mail a registered or certified letter, return receipt requested, to each secured creditor of the estate.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Notice to Creditors of the Estate
Within 30 days after qualifying, you must publish notice of your appointment to creditors in a newspaper of general circulation in the county.
Within 30 days after you have qualified (taken and filed the oath and given any required bond), you must publish your notice to creditors in a newspaper of general circulation in this county, advising all creditors of your appointment.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Notice to Creditors of the Estate
All motions must be served in accordance with the Bexar County Courts at Law Local Rules and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
ALL motions must be in writing and filed / served in accordance with the Local Rules of the Bexar County Courts at Law and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER ON TRIAL PROCEDURES IN COUNTY COURT AT LAW NUMBER 7
Motions must be served in accordance with the Local Rules of the Bexar County Courts at Law and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
ALL motions must be in writing and filed/served in accordance with the Local Rules of the Bexar County Courts at Law and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | Standing Order on Trial Procedures in County Court at Law Number 7 and Impact Court Number 7
If a dual-compensation request is made after appointment, notice of the motion and hearing must be given to all interested parties who have appeared.
If the request is after the time of appointment, notice of the motion and hearing shall be given to all interested parties who have made an appearance in the case.
Civil cases
Page 4 | C. Fees when an Attorney is also the Fiduciary
Statutory Probate Courts must issue local orders authorizing constables or sheriffs to serve a proposed ward or ward in a facility prohibiting in-person visits by either of the stated alternate methods.
This Administrative Order requires all Statutory Probate Courts to issue local orders that conform to the following: 1. Authorizing the constable or sheriff, in a guardianship proceeding, to accomplish personal service by alternate methods on a proposed ward or ward who is located in a facility that is prohibiting in-person visits, such as: a. leaving a true copy of the citation, with a copy of the petition attached, with anyone over eighteen years of age at the facility who commits in advance to deliver the citation to the proposed ward or ward subject to the citation; or b. by affixing the citation on the door to the entrance of the facility in which the proposed ward or ward is located; and
Civil cases
Page 4 | Presiding State Statutory Probate Judge Administrative Order 2020-4
The notice of appointment to creditors must be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the county.
Within 30 days after you have qualified (taken and filed the oath and given any required bond), you must publish your notice to creditors in a newspaper of general circulation in this county, advising all creditors of your appointment.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Notice to Creditors of the Estate
File proof of the published notice and the mailed notices to secured creditors with the clerk’s office.
You must file proof of the above two notices with the clerk’s office.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Notice to Creditors of the Estate
Send all beneficiary notices by registered or certified mail with return receipt requested.
All notices must be sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Notice to Beneficiaries
Within two months after qualification, send each secured creditor a registered or certified letter with return receipt requested.
Within two months after your qualification, you must mail a registered or certified letter, return receipt requested, to each secured creditor of the estate.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Notice to Creditors of the Estate
For the purpose of these rules, three (3) day notice means that three full working days must elapse between the day the responding attorney is served with the setting papers and the day of the scheduled hearing.
For the purpose of these rules, three (3) day notice means that three full working days must elapse between the day the responding attorney is served with the setting papers and the day of the scheduled hearing.
Page 3 | III. MISCELLANEOUS RULES — B. NOTICE
Twenty-one full calendar days must elapse between service of the trial setting on the responding attorney and the scheduled trial.
one (21) full calendar days (including working days, weekends, and holidays) must elapse between the day the responding attorney is served with the trial setting and the day of the scheduled tria
Page 3 | III. MISCELLANEOUS RULES — B. NOTICE
Filing Fees and Waivers
A party requesting a jury trial must pay the required jury fee.
A party requesting a jury trial must file a written demand and pay the required jury fee at least 30 days before the date set for trial on the non-jury docket, in compliance with Rule 216, TRCP.
Page 8 | Rule 6.3 Jury Trials
The filing fee for a Small Estate Affidavit is $232.
They pay a $232 filing fee and expect approval.
Page 1 | Small Estate Affidavits
The text states that applicants pay a $232 filing fee for a Small Estate Affidavit.
They pay a $232 filing fee and expect approval.
Page 1 | Small Estate Affidavits
A diskette copy may be charged at $1.00 per diskette.
i. Per Diskette: $1.00
Criminal cases
Page 4
A non-rewritable CD may be charged at $1.00 per disc.
iv. Per Non-rewritable CD (CD-R): $1.00
Criminal cases
Page 4
Copies on specialty paper may be charged for the actual cost of copies.
Copies on specialty paper may be charged for the actual cost of copies.
Criminal cases
Page 4
Oversize paper copies may be charged at $0.50 per page.
Oversize paper copies may be charged at a rate of $.50 per page.
Criminal cases
Page 4
A rewritable CD may be charged at $1.00 per disc.
iii. Per Rewritable CD (CD-RW): $1.00
Criminal cases
Page 4
A DVD may be charged at $3.00 per disc.
v. Per Digital video disc (DVD): $3.00
Criminal cases
Page 4
Any charge for the request must comply with subchapter F, Chapter 552, Government Code.
Any imposition of a charge for this request shall comply with subchapter F, Chapter 552, Government Code.
Criminal cases
Page 4
Standard paper copies may be charged at $0.10 per page or part of a page.
Standard paper copies may be charged at a rate of $.10 per page or part of a page.
Criminal cases
Page 4
A data cartridge, magnetic tape, or tape cartridge may be charged at actual cost.
ii. Per Data Cartridge, magnetic tape, or tape cartridge: actual cost
Criminal cases
Page 4
Any costs for filing the bond are waived.
Costs, if any, for this filing are waived.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Presiding State Statutory Probate Judge Administrative Order 2020-5
Any costs for this filing are waived.
Costs, if any, for this filing are waived.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Presiding State Statutory Probate Judge Administrative Order 2016-01
Any costs for this filing are waived.
Costs, if any, for this filing are waived.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Presiding State Statutory Probate Judge Administrative Order 2021-1
The Court urges attorneys to pay the fee for a copy of the signed order.
Moreover, the Court urges adherence to the common practice of including a proposed order with all applications and paying the fee for a copy of the signed order.
Civil cases
Page 8 | D. Conversations with Court and Clerk Staff
Attorneys are urged to pay the correct filing and posting fee when one is required.
This step, coupled with payment of the correct filing and posting fee, if required, will help ensure that attorneys receive copies of all orders and will reduce the necessity for calls to the Clerk’s office to check on the
Civil cases
Page 8 | D. Conversations with Court and Clerk Staff
Any costs for this filing are waived.
Costs, if any, for this filing are waived.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Presiding State Statutory Probate Judge Administrative Order 2020-2
Courtesy Copy Requirements
The signed order’s courtesy copy will be emailed to the ad litem and the attorney listed on the appointment motion.
A courtesy copy of the signed order will be emailed directly to the ad litem and the attorney listed on the Motion to Appoint Attorney Ad Litem.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Additional Information
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
The social security number on the death certificate must be crossed out.
Cross out the social security number.
Page 2 | Bexar County Small Estate Affidavit (SEA) Checklist
Cross out the social security number on the death certificate.
Cross out the social security number.
Page 2 | Bexar County Small Estate Affidavit (SEA) Checklist
Parties must omit or redact sensitive data, including full Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and birth dates, unless the Texas Estates Code specifically requires the data for the application.
In compliance with Rule 21c of the TRCP, parties must omit or redact sensitive data (such as full Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, or birth dates) unless such data is specifically required by the Texas Estates Code for the underlying application.
Page 3 | Rule 2.3 Redaction of Sensitive Data
Filing Bundling Requirements
The Court strongly prefers that the affidavit or certificate be filed separately from other documents.
The Court strongly prefers that you file the affidavit or certificate separately from any other document.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Notice to Beneficiaries
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
For matters proceeding by written submission, an opposing party must file a response within 5 days of the motion’s filing date, and the moving party may file a reply within 3 days of the response’s filing date; a late response may be construed as non-opposition.
a) Response: Any party opposing the motion must file a written response within 5 days of the filing date. Failure to file a timely response may be construed as non-opposition to the motion. b) Reply: The moving party may file a written reply to the response within 3 days of its filing date.
Page 11 | Rule 11.2 Response and Reply
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
If the parties agree to a trial continuance, both parties must approach the bench for a good-cause determination.
In the event that a trial continuance is agreed upon by the parties, both parties must approach the bench for good cause determination.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER ON TRIAL PROCEDURES IN COUNTY COURT AT LAW NUMBER 7
A party unprepared for trial must file and present a written motion for continuance that complies with Chapter 29 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure for a ruling.
In the event a party is not prepared to go forward with a trial setting, a written motion for continuance that complies with the requirements of Chapter 29 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure must be filed and presented to the court tor a ruling.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER ON TRIAL PROCEDURES IN COUNTY COURT AT LAW NUMBER 7
When the parties agree to a trial continuance, both must approach the bench for a good-cause determination.
in the event that a trial continuance is agreed upon by the parties, both parties must approach the bench for good cause determination.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | Standing Order on Trial Procedures in County Court at Law Number 7 and Impact Court Number 7
A party unprepared for trial must file and present for a ruling a written continuance motion complying with Chapter 29 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
In the event a party is not prepared to go forward with a trial setting, a written motion for continuance that complies with the requirements of Chapter 29 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure must be filed and presented to the court for a ruling.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | Standing Order on Trial Procedures in County Court at Law Number 7 and Impact Court Number 7
A party's “not ready” announcement does not result in an automatic trial continuance or reset.
County Court at Law No. 7 and the Bexar County Impact Court for County Court at Law Number 7 do NOT observe any general policy that each side gets a "not ready" announcement for trial with an automatic continuance/reset.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | Standing Order on Trial Procedures in County Court at Law Number 7 and Impact Court Number 7
An attorney unavailable for a scheduled civil or criminal hearing or trial must file and set a Motion for Continuance, obtain the judge’s ruling, and notify the court and opposing counsel or the State.
Attorneys who are unavailable when they have civil or criminal hearings and/or trials already scheduled, must file and set a Motion for Continuance and obtain a ruling thereon from the Judge. Notice shall be given by the attorney to the court in which the matter is scheduled as well as opposing counsel or the State.
Page 3 | III. MISCELLANEOUS RULES — A. VACATIONS, LEAVE, AND UNAVAILABILITY
An official setting may not be abandoned without permission from the Judge Presiding.
Any official settings are unable to be abandoned without permission given by the Judge Presiding.
Page 4 | B. CIVIL DIVISION — II. GENERAL RULES
Other-jurisdiction matters are not grounds to reset or continue a Bexar County trial- or motion-calendar case; for a special out-of-county setting, the attorney must give the Presiding Judge written notice at least 10 days beforehand stating its date and place, and the judge may permit participation and continue the case to the next available setting.
I. Lawyers practicing at the Bar in Bexar County shall be ever mindful that it is their individual duty to give their first attention to the setting and trial of cases previously set in these Courts. Causes of action or other matters in other jurisdictions shall not be an excuse, or reasonable ground, justifying a resetting or continuance of a case on a trial or motion calendar of the Courts in Bexar County, with the following exception: 1. If an attorney has a special setting outside of Bexar County, they must notify the Presiding Judge in writing of the special setting elsewhere at least ten (10) days prior to any pending setting on the trial calendar. Such written notice must state the date and place of the out-of-county setting. The Presiding Judge has the discretion to grant said attorney permission to participate in said out-of-county case. The Presiding Judge may continue said attorney's case to the next available setting date.
Page 5 | I
To obtain a reset, a self-represented defendant or the defendant's attorney must appear to complete a reset form, and the Court must authorize the reset.
G. To obtain a reset, the defendant representing himself or the attorney for a defendant shall appear to complete a reset form. No case may be reset unless authorized by the Court.
Page 10 | IX. SETTINGS, RESETS, MOTIONS FOR CONTINUANCE
Unless a specific court's policy provides otherwise, people with conflicting settings or good reason for not appearing must notify the Court Coordinator before 8:50 A.M. that day and appear for resetting by 5:00 P.M. the next working day.
Unless ordered otherwise by policy of a specific court, attorneys who have conflicting settings or attorneys or unrepresented defendants who have good and sufficient reason for not appearing shall notify the respective Court Coordinator prior to 8:50 A.M. on that date. Those attorneys or unrepresented defendants who make such contact shall have until 5:00 P.M. the next working day to appear for a resetting.
Page 10 | VIII. DOCKET CALLS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Motions for continuance are governed by Chapter 29 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
B. Motions for continuance will be governed by Chapter 29, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
Page 10 | IX. SETTINGS, RESETS, MOTIONS FOR CONTINUANCE
Requests for resets and postponements are acted on only by the Court, except as otherwise provided in the rules below.
C. Request for resets and postponements will be acted upon only by the Court, or as otherwise provided below.
Page 10 | IX. SETTINGS, RESETS, MOTIONS FOR CONTINUANCE
When the assigned judge is unavailable, the listed judges may act on continuance motions and case settings or resets, in sequence, upon a showing of good cause.
In the event the Judge of the Court is unavailable, the Presiding Criminal Judge, Administrative Judge or any other Judge of a County Court at Law, in this sequence, shall have the authority to act on Motions for Continuance, settings, and resetting cases of the absent Judge upon good cause showing.
Page 11 | I
A request to move a scheduled hearing must be made by written motion with a Certificate of Conference; continuance motions filed less than 48 hours before the hearing are disfavored except in sudden emergencies.
b) Motions for Continuance: Any request to move a scheduled hearing must be made by written motion and include a Certificate of Conference. Except in cases of sudden emergency, motions for continuance filed less than 48 hours before a hearing are disfavored.
Page 5 | Rule 4.3 Cancellations and Continuances
In Probate Court No. 1, a setting may not be dropped within 5 days of the setting without the Court's consent.
Probate Court No. 1 has an administrative order in place that does not allow the dropping of settings within 5 days of the setting without consent of the Court.
Page 6 | Rule 5.4 Witness Testimony
A vacation letter does not change an existing setting; to avoid a scheduled hearing, counsel must obtain a written agreement of all parties subject to Court approval or file a motion for continuance and obtain the Judge’s ruling.
a) No Automatic Reset: A vacation letter does not automatically drop, postpone, or reschedule hearings or trials that were already set before the letter was filed. b) Procedure for Scheduled Matters: If a vacation is desired for a date where a hearing is already scheduled, counsel must: • Reset the matter by written agreement of all parties (subject to Court approval); or • File a formal Motion for Continuance and obtain a specific ruling from the Judge.
Page 13 | Rule 13.2: Effect on Existing Settings
A party cannot rely on a "not ready" announcement to receive an automatic trial continuance or reset.
County Court at Law No. 7 does NOT observe any general policy that each side gets a "not ready" announcement for trial with an automatic continuance / reset.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER ON TRIAL PROCEDURES IN COUNTY COURT AT LAW NUMBER 7
The Court Coordinator may reset a case when the Court receives a compliant notice of an attorney's unavailability, notice of the attorney's trial in another court, or notice that the attorney is ill.
E. The Court Coordinator may reset a case in the following circumstances: 1. The Court receives a letter, in compliance with Local Rules, notifying the Court that the attorney will be unavailable, this notification should include the defendant's name, cause number and an explanation of the reason for unavailability. This notice is subject to the requirements of the Local Rules pertaining to Vacation Notices and the requirements for Motion(s) for Continuance. 2. The Court receives notice that the attorney is unavailable due to a trial in another Court. The notification must state the Court in which the attorney is in trial, the style of the case which they are trying and the date the trial is to begin. 3. The Court is notified that the attorney is ill.
Page 10 | IX. SETTINGS, RESETS, MOTIONS FOR CONTINUANCE
Chambers Communication Rules
Email Francesca Cammack, the court investigator, with confirmation of the hearing.
Please email the court investigator, Francesca Cammack of your hearing confirmation. Her email is Francesca.Cammack@bexar.org.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Once Hearing is Set
The Civil Assignment Clerk must be notified of non-suits, dismissals, settlements, or agreed judgments on the same day the action is taken; notice may be oral or written, formal or informal.
Non-suits, dismissals, settlements or agreed judgments shall be called to the attention of the Civil Assignment Clerk. This notice may be oral or written, formal or informal. Such Notice shall be given the same day such action is taken.
Page 4 | B. CIVIL DIVISION — II. GENERAL RULES
Attorneys who have a court-setting conflict and will be late for docket call must notify the assigned court’s Clerk and opposing counsel as soon as the conflict becomes apparent, providing the conflict’s nature, where counsel can be reached, the desired announcement, and expected appearance time.
H. All attorneys having conflicts with other Court settings and who will be late for docket call shall notify the Clerk of the particular assigned court and opposing counsel of such conflict as soon as it becomes apparent, and shall state: 1. The nature of the conflict; 2. Where counsel may be reached; 3. What announcement counsel wishes to make; and 4. Time that Presiding Judge should expect counsel to personally appear.
Page 5 | H
Attorneys excused to confer with the State's attorney must report the conference results to the Court before departing or before the noon recess, whichever comes first.
B. Attorneys who announce and are excused to confer with the State's attorney shall report the results of such conference back to the Court before departing or the noon recess, whichever comes first.
Page 10 | VIII. DOCKET CALLS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
If a hearing is required, the Court must be notified so the matter can be set on its docket.
If a hearing is required, it shall be brought to the attention of the Court so that the cause may be set upon the Court's docket.
Page 11 | XI.A.4
Contested pretrial motions to quash the complaint and other contested pretrial motions must be presented to the arraigning Presiding Judge for a ruling.
All contested pre-trial motions to quash the complaint and other contested pre-trial motions shall be presented to the arraigning Presiding Judge for ruling.
Page 12 | XII.C
The Court Coordinator must be notified immediately when a matter settles or a party intends to non-suit so the hearing slot can be released.
a) Notice to Court: If a matter is settled or if a party intends to non-suit, the Court Coordinator must be notified immediately so the time slot can be released to other litigants.
Page 5 | Rule 4.3 Cancellations and Continuances
The party or attorney representing a person who needs an interpreter must notify the Court Coordinator as soon as the need is identified and no later than five business days before the hearing.
It is the responsibility of the party or attorney representing a person who does not understand or speak the English language to notify the Court Coordinator as soon as the need for an interpreter is identified, but no later than five (5) business days before a scheduled hearing.
Page 7 | Rule 5.6 Interpreters and Language Access
If mediation results in settlement, counsel must notify the Court under Section 4.3(a).
If mediation results in a settlement, counsel must notify the Court pursuant to Section 4.3(a) of these rules.
Page 8 | Rule 6.2 Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
If documents are submitted after the hearing date, notify the staff attorney after the clerk accepts the e-filed documents.
If you submit documents after hearing date you must notify the staff attorney once the e-filed documents are accepted by the clerk.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Procedures
If documents are submitted after the hearing date, notify the staff attorney once the clerk accepts the e-filed documents.
If you submit documents after hearing date you must notify the staff attorney once the e-filed documents are accepted by the clerk.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Procedures
If documents are submitted after the hearing date, notify the staff attorney once the clerk accepts the e-filed documents.
If you submit documents after hearing date you must notify the staff attorney once the e-filed documents are accepted by the clerk.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Procedures
Ask your attorney, not the Court, about estate matters you do not understand.
Consult with your Attorney (not the Court) on any matter regarding this estate that you do not understand.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
Notify the Court and your attorney whenever your mailing address changes.
Notify the Court (and your Attorney) of any change in your mailing address.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Court-Ordered Instructions for a Dependent Administrator/Executor
Contact the Court if an heir died after the decedent.
If any heir died after the decedent, contact the Court.
Page 3 | 12. List all heirs/distributees
Do not suggest that a personal representative call the Court for a consultation or explanation about the estate; the Court considers discussions with personal representatives appropriate only in counsel’s presence.
Bearing in mind that the Court requires all personal representatives to have counsel, the Court does not believe it appropriate for the Court to have discussions with personal representatives outside the presence of their counsel. Please do not suggest to a client that it is appropriate to call the Court for a consultation or an explanation of what is going on in the estate being administered by that client.
Civil cases
Page 8 | D. Conversations with Court and Clerk Staff
When addressing the Court attorneys shall at all times promptly rise and remain standing at their positions at the counsel table, and shall not approach the bench except with permission or on request of the Court.
When addressing the Court attorneys shall at all times promptly rise and remain standing at their positions at the counsel table, and shall not approach the bench except with permission or on request of the Court.
Page 1 | A. GENERAL RULES — I. RULES OF CONDUCT
Attorneys may not address the Court confidentially unless the Court invites them to do so.
Addressing the Court in a confidential manner will not be permitted unless invited by the Court.
Page 2 | A. GENERAL RULES — I. RULES OF CONDUCT
Court settings may not be accepted by phone.
No setting shall be accepted by phone.
Page 4 | B. CIVIL DIVISION — II. GENERAL RULES
If an heir died after the decedent, contact the Court.
If any heir died after the decedent, contact the Court.
Page 3 | List all heirs/distributees
The Court may require a hearing in some circumstances and will contact the applicant if one is needed; do not set a hearing unless the Court asks.
The Court usually does not require a hearing on SEA applications, but in some circumstances the Court may require a hearing before an SEA will be approved. If a hearing is needed, the Court will contact you to set a hearing. Do not set a hearing unless the Court has asked you to do so.
Page 4 | Possible hearing
Counsel should not attempt to communicate ex parte with the Judge through court staff.
Under no circumstances should counsel attempt to engage in ex parte communication with the Judge through court staff.
Page 2 | Rule 1.2 Courtroom Decorum
An attorney delayed in another court must immediately notify the Bailiff or Coordinator.
If an attorney is delayed in another court, Counsel must notify the Bailiff or Coordinator immediately.
Page 2 | Rule 1.2 Courtroom Decorum
Applicants should confirm with the individual court whether a MERP certification must be attached.
Confirm with the individual court whether a MERP certification must be attached to the application.
Page 3 | Applications to Probate Will as a Muniment of Title
An attorney or self-represented party must notify the Court Coordinator as soon as an accommodation need is identified; notice at least five business days before the hearing is preferred.
To ensure the availability of a qualified intermediary or interpreter, the attorney or self-represented party must notify the Court Coordinator as soon as the need is identified, preferably at least five (5) business days prior to the scheduled hearing.
Page 7 | Rule 5.7 Accommodations for Deaf or Hard of Hearing Individuals
For questions about citations, returns of service, or JBCC background-check completion, contact the Probate Clerk’s office by phone.
Any questions regarding citations, return of service, or JBCC completion of background checks, please contact the Bexar County Probate Clerk’s office at (210)335-2241 for further assistance.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Procedures
Contact the court’s staff attorney by phone with questions about whether Muniment of Title probate is available for your situation.
As to this option, please contact the court's staff attorney at 210 335-0490 or at his email address at mcollins@bexar.org with questions as to its availability for your particular situation.
Page 2 | Frequently Asked Questions
Letters of administration may be ordered from the Probate Clerk's Office by calling (210) 335-2241.
These letters may be ordered from the Probate Clerk's Office, (210) 335-2241.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Letters of Administration