Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts Filing Rules

Official filing rules, court-wide sources, and procedure resources for Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts

Official local rules (court website)

For Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts filings, start with the official local rules and court-level instructions. Then confirm any division, department, clerk, or assigned-officer procedure that applies to the case.

Adjournments

Court-wide

3Business Daysnotice

Reason for Request

Document Filing Requirements

Court-level rules
Except in an emergency, a civil motion for continuance must be submitted in writing and explain why postponement is necessary.

View all 6 rules

Service and Proof of Service Rules

Court-level rules
If no substitute attorney is appointed, the withdrawal motion must be delivered to the party.

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

Court-level rules
A party in a pending civil case must immediately notify the Court when a bankruptcy petition is filed.

Chambers Communication Rules

Court-level rules
An attorney who is, or is scheduled to be in trial in another court, will, in writing and as soon as the conflict becomes apparent, inform the Justice Court in which there is a conflicting setting of the case number and the court in which the case is being tried.

Filing Fees and Waivers

Court-level rules
A hearing request must be accompanied by the filing fee required by law.

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

Court-level rules
Before filing a civil motion for continuance, the moving party must confer with opposing parties to try to obtain agreement to the delay.

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Court-level rules
Except in an emergency, a civil motion for continuance must be written, explain why postponement is necessary, and be filed at least three business days before trial or hearing.