Court Rules
Judge

Judge R. Scott Mckee

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Henderson County District Courts
Filters:

Document Format Requirements38 rules

FormattingCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Applications must be submitted in writing.

4. Application. All applications must be submitted in writing and shall be maintained by the appointing authority or contracting authority in accordance with the Texas State Library and Archives Commission Retention Schedule for Local Records-Local Schedule GR.

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 16
|SecVIII. CONTRACT DEFENDER PROGRAM — B. Application Process
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

All labels shall be legibly marked with the appropriate exhibit numbering sequence using a black, fine point "Sharpie" type marker.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 1
|SecI. UNIFORM LABELING/ EXHIBIT NUMBERING SEQUENCE
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Envelope- or box-based exhibits must follow the sequential numbering system, and contained items must be numbered from the outer container’s number using the subpart rules.

Exhibits that consist of envelopes, boxes, etc., shall use the above sequential numbering sequence. The outer envelope, box, etc. shall be labeled and marked with the appropriate sequential number, and all items contained within the envelope or box shall begin with the number on the outermost envelope or box and labeled according to the rules for labeling sub-parts.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 1
|SecI. UNIFORM LABELING/ EXHIBIT NUMBERING SEQUENCE
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Exhibits must have stickers and follow the stated sequential numbering and subpart-labeling formats.

All exhibits shall be labeled with an exhibit sticker and sequentially numbered beginning with "Exhibit 1". Letters will only be used when an exhibit has a subpart. For example exhibit 1-A, 1-B, 1-C, etc. If an exhibit has multiple sub-parts, the exhibit shall be labeled with a number-letter-number format. For example- 1-A-1, 1-A-2, etc.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 1
|SecI. UNIFORM LABELING/ EXHIBIT NUMBERING SEQUENCE
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Documents and printed photographs shall be in an 8.5 x 11 format, unless the document or photograph is an original and cannot reasonably be reproduced in an 8.5 x 11 format, or an 8.5 x 11 format would not be sufficient or reasonable considering the substance of the exhibit. For example- maps, overhead views, diagrams, etc.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 2
|SecII. DOCUMENTS AND PRINTED PHOTOGRAPHS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

This ensures that digital exhibits published to the jury or the Court play more quickly and seamlessly. Parties shall ensure that the contents of the pre-loaded file and the exhibit are identical.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 2
|SecIII. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Audio or video media must be numbered and labeled under the order; CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs must be labeled right of center and stored in a clear jacket or sleeve that leaves the label visible.

The medium containing the audio or video exhibit shall be numbered and labeled according to the rules in this order. CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray disks shall be labeled right of center on the actual disk, so as not to interfere with accessing the data on the disk. Each disk shall be protected by a clear jacket or sleeve so that the exhibit label can be clearly seen inside the jacket or sleeve.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 2
|SecIII. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Video: Video file exhibits must be MPEG-4 Part 14 files (usually referred to as .mp4).

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 2
|SecIII. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Audio: All audio file exhibits must be MPEG-1 Audio-Layer 3 files (usually referred to as .mp3). The files must not be password-protected, encrypted, or protected by rights management. Id at § 8.9.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 2
|SecIII. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

The Bailiff shall inspect all firearms and weapons used as exhibits prior to them being brought into the courtroom.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Parties will not be permitted to remove admitted exhibits from the courtroom without approval from the Court.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIV. MISCELLANEOUS/ OTHER PHYSICAL EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

When handling firearms, attorneys and witnesses shall not point them at any person or have any finger in the trigger well at any time.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

If an attorney intends to use a firearm in a demonstration by a witness in regard to how the firearm functions, or was used or held during the commission of the alleged offense, prior approval from the Court shall be obtained by the attorney.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

All firearms used as exhibits shall be unloaded with the cylinder or action open, no magazines inserted, and a locking, firearm safety cord installed.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

All firearms, as well as other dangerous objects, shall be physically incapacitated and in a condition where they cannot be used to inflict harm.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

All firearms shall have a string tag attached to the trigger well with a label affixed to the tag for exhibit marking purposes.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

A firearm and ammunition shall never be given to a witness during testimony or to the jury at the same time during juror deliberations, unless the witness is an expert witness with respect to firearms and/or ammunition.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Jurors shall not be allowed to handle firearms during the trial if the firearm is published to the jury.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Any exhibit(s) offered that do not meet the requirements of this standing order, are subject to exclusion until the exhibit is properly labeled, marked and made safe, if applicable.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Notification and approval shall be required before a firearm is used in final argument.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Parties should refrain from publishing digital media from the offered exhibit, and instead, publish from the pre-loaded file.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 2
|SecIII. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Parties are highly encouraged to use the projector or computer to display documents and photographs on flat-panel displays rather than passing them to the jury.

The Court has access to a digital document projector for presenting exhibits to the jury or the Court. These projectors work best with 8.5 x 11 exhibits. Parties are highly encouraged to use the projector or computer to publish documents and photographs on the flat panel displays, rather than passing them to the jury.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 2
|SecII. DOCUMENTS AND PRINTED PHOTOGRAPHS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

All digital audio and video exhibits should be uploaded to the internal or attached drive of the sponsoring parties' computer/device prior to trial.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 2
|SecIII. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Exhibits properly admitted by the Court shall be secured and stored by the court reporter.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIV. MISCELLANEOUS/ OTHER PHYSICAL EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Parties are responsible for the care, custody and control of their own exhibits, unless that exhibit has been properly admitted by the Court.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIV. MISCELLANEOUS/ OTHER PHYSICAL EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Small items may be placed in an envelope, and affix the exhibit label to the front, lower right-hand corner of the exhibit, approximately 1/16th of an inch from the bottom of the envelope.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIV. MISCELLANEOUS/ OTHER PHYSICAL EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

For objects where affixing a label is impossible, affix the label to a string tag and tie it on the object.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIV. MISCELLANEOUS/ OTHER PHYSICAL EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Proper care should be taken when offering or using exhibits which may contain a bio-hazard or a controlled or illegal substance.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIV. MISCELLANEOUS/ OTHER PHYSICAL EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

For objects other than paper, labels shall be placed where they can easily be seen.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIV. MISCELLANEOUS/ OTHER PHYSICAL EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Parties must provide their own butcher paper.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIII. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

For large or bulky objects, please arrange with the Court prior to trial.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIV. MISCELLANEOUS/ OTHER PHYSICAL EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Note

Every effort should be made to affix exhibit labels to the exhibit prior to offering them into evidence.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIV. MISCELLANEOUS/ OTHER PHYSICAL EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Note

Parties are highly encouraged to use Power-Point and/or other similar slide show type presentations during Voir Dire, Opening and Closing.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIII. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Note

However, the Court does provide an easel for "butcher paper" presentation.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 3
|SecIII. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS
Formatting

We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

All parties who intend to offer digital evidence shall ensure that the evidence can be published for the jury or the Court in the courtroom prior to trial.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 2
|SecIII. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS
Formatting

We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.Important?

Labels should be placed on the lower, right-hand corner of the exhibit, approximately 1/16th of an inch from the bottom of the page front, unless the label would interfere or cover a portion of the exhibit that is material to the substance of the exhibit. With oversized documents, keep consistency in mind when choosing the location for the label. If there is no blank space available ===== PAGE 2 ===== on an exhibit for placement of a label, or if a label would interfere with the substance of the exhibit, place the label on the back of the exhibit in the center, approximately 1/16th of an inch from the bottom edge.

Summary: Labels are recommended for the lower-right front corner, subject to material-content exceptions; when no suitable front space exists, place the label centered on the back near the bottom edge.

Henderson:ffe39dc216d20f23269392dd · Jun 2019 · p. 1
|SecII. DOCUMENTS AND PRINTED PHOTOGRAPHS

Document Filing Requirements34 rules

Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

The attorney fee voucher includes an attorney certification that the information is accurate and the claimed compensation and expenses were reasonable and necessary.

Attorney Certification - I, the undersigned attorney, certify that the above information is true and correct and in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas. The compensation and expenses claimed were reasonable and necessary to provide effective assistance of counsel.

DocumentAttorney Fee Voucher

Henderson:cb8a925db3881f0e147bd070 · p. 1
|SecAttorney Certification and Court Approval
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

A monthly progress statement must be submitted before payment and include the listed case information; the presiding judge may require other relevant information.

ubmit my monthly progress statement before payment will be made including the number of cases disposed of in the previous month and the types of cases as well as the number of cases currently open and assigned by the courts. The presiding Judge may require other information, which is necessary and relevant.

DocumentMonthly Progress Statement

Henderson:51b33b8f980e426eb9dfe294 · p. 5
|SecCertification of Knowledge of Standing Rules for Procedures for Timely and Fair Appointment of Counsel for Indigent Accused Persons in Henderson County, Texas
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

A request for court-appointed counsel must include a completed application and any requested supporting documentation.

An accused person’s request for a court appointed attorney shall include a completed application and any requested supporting documentation (i.e. Accused’s Financial Affidavit & Application for Appointed Counsel).

DocumentRequest For Appointed Counsel

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 8
|SecB. Determination for Eligibility of Appointment
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

b) Term of Contract: The contract shall specify the term of the contract, including any provision for renewal, and a provision for terminating the contract by either party;

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 17
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

The contract must set and require maintenance of minimum attorney qualifications that meet or exceed applicable indigent-defense procedures; qualifications may vary by offense seriousness for multi-attorney contracts.

d) Minimum Attorney Qualifications: The contract shall specify minimum qualifications for attorneys covered by the contract and require such attorneys to ===== PAGE 18 ===== maintain the qualifications during the term of the contract. The qualifications shall equal or exceed the qualifications provided in the indigent defense procedures adopted pursuant to Article 26.04, Code of Criminal Procedure. If a contract covers services provided by more than one attorney, qualifications may be graduated according to the seriousness of offense and each attorney shall be required to meet and maintain only those qualifications established for the offense level(s) for which the attorney is approved to provide defense services;

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 17
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

c) Scope of Contract: The contract shall specify the categories of cases in which the contractor is to provide services;

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 17
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

h) Standards of Representation: The contract shall require that the contractor provide zealous legal representation to all clients in a professional, skilled manner consistent with all applicable laws and the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct;

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 18
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

The contract must set each attorney’s maximum caseload or workload; it may set a maximum that does not exceed the specified annual full-time-equivalent caseload guidelines.

g) Caseload Limitations: The contract shall set the maximum number of cases or workload each attorney may be required to handle pursuant to the contract, which may include a maximum caseload not exceeding the annual full-time equivalent caseload established by the Guidelines for Indigent Defense Caseloads and the Juvenile Addendum and Appellate Addendum: Guidelines for Indigent Defense Caseloads, published by the Texas Indigent Defense Commission pursuant to House Bill 1318, 83rd Texas Legislature;

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 18
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

The contract must identify the attorneys assigned to each case category and prohibit substitutions without prior majority approval, while preserving relief or replacement under Article 26.04(j)(2).

f) Substitution of Attorneys: The contract shall identify the attorney(s) who will perform legal representation in each category of case covered by the contract and prohibit the substitution of other attorneys without prior approval by a majority of the appointing authority. Nothing in the contract shall prohibit an attorney covered by the contract from being relieved or replaced in accordance with Article 26.04(j)(2) of the Code of Criminal Procedure;

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 18
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

The contract must state a policy preventing representation when it would involve a conflict of interest.

i) Conflicts of Interest: The contract shall state a policy to assure that the contractor and its attorneys do not provide representation to defendants when doing so would involve a conflict of interest;

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 18
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

The contract must state the contractor’s compensation, payment method and timing, and itemized-voucher requirement and approval sequence.

k) Compensation and Payment Processes: The contract shall set the amount of compensation to be paid to the contractor and the designated method and timing of payment. The contract shall state that the contractor shall be required to submit an itemized fee voucher. The voucher must be approved by a member of the appointing authority prior to being forwarded to the county financial officer for approval and

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 18
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

The contract must specify how necessary investigation services and experts will be made available consistently with Article 26.05(d).

j) Investigators and Experts: The contract shall specify how investigation services and experts that are necessary to provide competent representation will be made available in a manner consistent with Article 26.05(d), Code of Criminal Procedure; and

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 18
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

The contract must require the contractor to complete cases begun during the contract term unless the covered attorney is relieved or replaced under Article 26.04(j)(2).

e) Duration of Representation: The contract shall specify that the contractor has the responsibility to complete all cases once representation is commenced during the term of the contract, unless an attorney covered by the contract is relieved or replaced in accordance with Article 26.04(j)(2), Code of Criminal Procedure;

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 18
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Each attorney shall annually provide an affidavit to the Judges that he or she has successfully fulfilled the CLE requirements.

DocumentAnnual CLE Affidavit

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 19
|SecIX. STANDARDS OF CONDUCT & DUTIES OF APPOINTMENT LIST AND CONTRACT ATTORNEYS
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

An attorney shall submit, by October 15th each year, a statement that describes the percentage of the attorney's practice time that was dedicated to work based on

DocumentAnnual Practice Time Statement

Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Before a defendant waives counsel to plead guilty or proceed to trial, the court must give the listed advisements, as applicable.

If a defendant wishes to waive the right to counsel for purposes of entering a guilty plea or proceeding to trial, the court shall advise the defendant of the following at a minimum as applicable: (See Faretta v, California, 422 U.S. 806 (1975). i. Of the nature of the charges against the defendant and the range of punishment with and without enhancements, ii. that he would be treated no differently from an attorney, iii. that he would have to follow all of the rules of criminal procedure, the U.S. and Texas Constitutions, statues, and applicable rules of evidence, local rules and general rules of court-room décor; iv. that he would have to follow rules to preserve any error in his case, v. that attorneys have specific training in the laws and trial advocacy, vi. that his self-representation could result in a conviction, vii. that a jury decides any factual issues, viii. that he might not have the experience or level of training to properly object to preserve error, or admit any evidence he may to admit, ix. that the court believes it may be a mistake to represent himself, and x. that he has the right to court-appointed counsel if he cannot afford an attorney.

DocumentWaiver Of Counsel Proceeding

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 23
|Sec3. Waiver of the Right to Counsel
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

After finding a defendant understands the admonitions and has voluntarily and intelligently waived counsel, the court must provide the specified waiver statement; if signed, it must be filed as part of the proceedings’ record.

If the court determines that the defendant understands the admonitions and that his right to counsel is voluntarily and intelligently waived, the court shall provide the defendant with a statement substantially in the following form, which, if signed by the defendant, shall be filed with and become part of the record of the proceedings. “I have been admonished of the dangers of self-representation and advised this ___ day of ____, 2___, by the (name of court) Court of my right to representation by counsel in the case pending against me. I have been further advised that if I am unable to afford counsel, one will be appointed for me free of charge. Understanding my right to have counsel appointed for me free of charge if I am not financially able to employ counsel, I wish to waive that right and request the court to proceed with my case without an attorney being appointed for me. I hereby waive my right to counsel. (signature of defendant)”

DocumentWaiver Of Counsel Statement

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 23
|Sec3. Waiver of the Right to Counsel
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

If a judge disapproves a request for compensation, the judge shall make written findings, stating the amount of payment that the judge approves and each reason for approving an amount different from the requested amount.

DocumentCompensation Disapproval Findings

Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Upon request, the court must state its reasons for denying an expense request in writing and attach the denial to the confidential request.

If the court denies in whole or in part the request for expenses, the court shall upon request: i. State the reasons for the denial in writing; ii. Attach the denial to the confidential request;

DocumentExpense Request Denial

Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

A request for advance investigative or expert expenses may be filed pretrial ex parte and confidentially, and must include the applicable investigation or expert type, supporting specific facts, and an itemized list of anticipated expenses.

Appointed Counsel may file with the trial court a pretrial ex- parte confidential request for advance payment of investigative and expert expenses. c) The request for expenses must state the below, as applicable: d) The type of investigation to be conducted or the type of expert to be retained; i. Specific facts that suggest the investigation will result in admissible evidence or that the services of an expert are reasonably necessary to assist in the preparation of a potential defense; and ii. An itemized list of anticipated expenses for each investigation and/or each expert.

DocumentExpense Request

Filing RequirementsCriminal casesCourt notice

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

All expenses to be reimbursed must be itemized in writing, supported by invoices and /or vouchers, and submitted to the Presiding Judge for approval along with the order to approve the reimbursement. Prior court approval must be obtained.

DocumentExpense Reimbursement Request

Filing RequirementsCriminal casesCourt notice

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

A separate Form 1295 is required for each new, renewed, modified, or amended Henderson County contract.

4. The Contract Attorney shall repeat this process and obtain a separate Form 1295 each time he or she enters into a new contract, renews a contract, or makes modifications and/or amendments to a Henderson County contract.

DocumentForm 1295

Filing RequirementsCriminal casesCourt notice

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

2. Once submitted, the system will generate an electronic Form 1295 displaying a “Certificate Number.” The Contract Attorney must print, sign and notarize Form 1295.

DocumentForm 1295

Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Files with the Appointing Authority a complete, accurate sworn "Application for Felony Court-Appointments," including all required attachments;

DocumentApplication For Felony Court Appointments

Henderson:5a7f43345f80f5bf7ac9e785 · Jan 2024 · p. 2
|SecIV. Contract Attorney Qualifications
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Mandatory

Written waivers of arraignment are acceptable without the necessity of appearance, provided that a proper WAIVER OF ARRAIGNMENT AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PRE-TRIAL AND STATUS CONFERENCE HEARINGS document is filed with the District Clerk with notice to the State, at least 3 business days prior to the Arraignment docket.

DocumentWaiver Of Arraignment And Acknowledgment Of Pre Trial And Status Conference Hearings

Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Attorneys on the appointment list must annually file a certificate documenting required CLE completion or submit proof of criminal-law specialist certification.

All attorneys on the appointment list must file a certificate with the County Court’s Indigent Defense Coordinator’s office each year attesting to completion of the required CLE or submit documentation showing that the attorney is certified as a specialist in criminal law.

DocumentAnnual Cle Certificate

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 12
|SecVII. COURT-APPOINTED/CONTRACT ATTORNEY QUALIFICATIONS; B. Misdemeanor and State Jail Felony Requirements
Filing RequirementsCriminal casesCourt notice

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Label Submission Envelopes: 2024 – 2025 Contract Attorney Application

DocumentApplication

Filing RequirementsCriminal casesCourt notice

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Applications shall address qualifications, experience, and past performance along with any additional relevant information the Applicant would like the Appointing Authority to consider.

DocumentApplication

Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

Requests for expense approval must identify the investigation or expert, provide supporting facts, and itemize anticipated expenses for each investigator or expert witness.

Any requests for approval of expenses must state the type of investigation to be conducted or the type of expert witness to be retained, must set out specific facts that suggest the investigation will result in admissible evidence or that the services of an expert witness are reasonably necessary to assist in the preparation of a potential defense, and shall include an itemized list of anticipated expenses for each investigator and/or expert witness.

DocumentRequest For Approval Of Expenses

Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

The Contract Attorney shall file with the court a pretrial request for advance payment of investigative and/or expert witness expenses to investigate potential defenses. In the discretion of the Contract Attorney, this request may be filed as an ex parte confidential request.

DocumentPretrial Request For Advance Payment Of Expenses

Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 11, 2026Important

All requests for special settings should be made in writing prior to the Status Conference Hearing date. The written request should state the reasons for the special setting request as well as the estimated time the trial will take.

DocumentSpecial Setting Request

Filing Requirements

We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

**COURT MUST APPROVE EMPLOYMENT OF AND ALL FEES FOR INVESTIGATORS & EXPERT WITNESS**

DocumentAttorney Fee Voucher

Henderson:cb8a925db3881f0e147bd070 · p. 1
|SecHOURLY - WITH COURT APPROVAL
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

This document will contain such information as may be necessary to make a determination of the accused’s ability to pay for an attorney.

DocumentAccused Financial Affidavit Application For Appointed Counsel

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 2
|SecC. Accused’s Financial Affidavit & Application for Appointed Counsel
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

a) Parties: Identify the appointing authority, contracting authority, and contractor;

DocumentContract

Henderson:22e7253e06d75ec4bfe10b95 · Nov 2023 · p. 17
|SecE. Required Elements of the Contract

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

After selection and notification, the Contract Attorney must complete the Texas Ethics Commission Electronic Filing Application.

1. After selection and notification by the District Judges, the Contract Attorney is required to log in to the Texas Ethics Commission and fill out the Electronic Filing Application.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 11, 2026 · Criminal cases · Court notice

Page 4 | The Filing Process

Applications must be submitted by mail or hand delivery to the designated address.

Applications shall be sent by mail or hand-delivered to:

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Page 1 | Notice of Application

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

The completed Form 1295 must be submitted to the County Auditor within ten business days after notification of the pending award, and the contract cannot be approved before submission.

3. Within ten (10) business days from notification of the pending award by the Henderson County District Judges, the completed Form 1295 must be submitted to the Henderson County Auditor. The Commissioners Court and County Judge cannot approve the contract until this form is completed and submitted to the Auditor.

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Page 4 | The Filing Process

Pre-trial matters under Article 28.01 must be raised by pleadings filed seven days before the pre-trial hearing unless the Court permits a later filing for good cause.

Any pre-trial matters set out in Article 28.01 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, must be raised by pleadings filed seven (7) days before the pre-trial hearing, and will not thereafter be allowed to be raised or filed except by permission of the Court for good cause shown.

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Page 1 | Waiver of Arraignment and Acknowledgement of Pre-Trial and Status Conference Hearings

The specified arraignment waiver document must be filed at least three business days before the arraignment docket.

Written waivers of arraignment are acceptable without the necessity of appearance, provided that a proper WAIVER OF ARRAIGNMENT AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PRE-TRIAL AND STATUS CONFERENCE HEARINGS document is filed with the District Clerk with notice to the State, at least 3 business days prior to the Arraignment docket.

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Page 1 | I. ARRAIGNMENT

Article 28.01 pre-trial matters must be raised or filed seven days before the Pre-trial Hearing, unless the Court permits a later matter for good cause shown.

Any pre-trial matters set out in Article 28.01, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, must be raised or filed seven days before the Pre-trial Hearing, and will not thereafter be allowed to be raised or filed except by permission of the Court for good cause shown.

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Page 1 | II. PRE-TRIAL HEARING

The magistrate must submit the specified bail form no later than 72 hours after bail is set.

Promptly but not later than 72 hours after the time bail is set, submit the bail form described by Section 72.038, Government Code, in accordance with that section.

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Page 6 | III. B. Public Safety Reporting System

Sealed applications must be received at the designated address by 2:00 PM CST on December 1, 2023; late applications will not be considered and will be returned unopened.

Deadline to submit sealed applications: 2:00 PM (CST), December 1, 2023 Please note that applications must be received at the designated address by the deadline shown. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered for award and will be returned unopened.

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Page 1 | Notice of Application

Service and Proof of Service Rules

The State must receive notice when a written arraignment waiver is filed.

Written waivers of arraignment are acceptable without the necessity of appearance, provided that a proper WAIVER OF ARRAIGNMENT AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PRE-TRIAL AND STATUS CONFERENCE HEARINGS document is filed with the District Clerk with notice to the State, at least 3 business days prior to the Arraignment docket.

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Page 1 | I. ARRAIGNMENT

Filing Fees and Waivers

The listed fee for initial detention is $175.

□ Initial Detention $175.00

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Page 1 | JUVENILE

The listed fee for a suppression hearing is $350.

□ Suppression Hearing $350.00

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Page 1 | FELONY

The listed fee for a plea to information is $350.

□ Plea to Information $350.00

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Page 1 | FELONY

The listed fee for a single-case misdemeanor jury appeal is $600.

□ Appeal of single case - jury $600.00

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Page 1 | MISDEMEANOR

The listed fee for second-chair death-penalty service is $750 per day.

□ 2nd Chair - Death Penalty $750.00 per day

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Page 1 | CAPITAL CASES

The listed fee for subsequent detention is $100.

□ Subsequent Detention $100.00

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Page 1 | JUVENILE

The listed fee for a plea or dismissal in multiple misdemeanor cases is $500.

□ Plea/Dismissal-multiple misdemeanor cases $500.00

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Page 1 | MISDEMEANOR

The listed fee for a plea or dismissal in a single misdemeanor case is $300.

□ Plea/Dismissal-single misdemeanor case $300.00

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Page 1 | MISDEMEANOR

The listed fee for a plea or dismissal in a single felony case is $500.

□ Plea/Dismissal-single felony case $500.00

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Page 1 | FELONY

The listed fee for probable cause is $100.

□ Probable Cause $100.00

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Page 1 | MENTAL

The listed fee for a death-penalty appeal is $5,000.

□ Appeal - Death Penalty $5,000.00

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Page 1 | CAPITAL CASES

The listed fee for waiver on probable cause is $70.

□ Waiver on Probable Cause $70.00

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Page 1 | MENTAL

The listed fee for first-chair death-penalty service is $1,000 per day.

□ 1st Chair - Death Penalty $1,000.00 per day

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Page 1 | CAPITAL CASES

The listed fee for a contested trial or motion to modify is $250 for one-half day.

□ Contested, Trial, Motion to Modify $250.00 -1/2 DAY

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Page 1 | JUVENILE

The listed fee for extended commitment is $200.

□ Extended Commitment $200.00

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Page 1 | MENTAL

The listed fee for adjudication or disposition is $350.

□ Adjudication/Disposition $350.00

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Page 1 | JUVENILE

The listed fee for a determinate sentence is $500.

□ Determinate Sentence $500.00

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Page 1 | JUVENILE

The listed fee for a felony writ of habeas corpus or no bill is $150.

□ Writ of Habeas Corpus/No Bill $150.00

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Page 1 | FELONY

The listed fee for a continuance is $100.

□ Continuance $100.00

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Page 1 | MENTAL

The listed fee for medication is $100.

□ Medication $100.00

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Page 1 | MENTAL

The listed fee for a plea or dismissal in multiple felony cases is $750.

□ Plea/Dismissal-multiple felony cases $750.00

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Page 1 | FELONY

The listed fee for a misdemeanor jury trial is $400 per day.

□ Jury Trial $400.00 - day

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Page 1 | MISDEMEANOR

The listed fee for a felony probable cause writ is $350.

□ Probable Cause Writ $350.00

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Page 1 | FELONY

Capital-case trial preparation is listed at up to $2,500.

□ Trial Preparation - up to $2,500.00

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Page 1 | CAPITAL CASES

Felony trial preparation is listed at up to $1,000.

□ Trial Preparation - up to $1,000.00

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Page 1 | FELONY

The listed fee for a felony jury appeal is $1,500.

□ Appeal - Jury $1,500.00

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Page 1 | FELONY

The listed fee for a felony jury trial is $600.

□ Jury Trial $600.00

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Page 1 | FELONY

The listed fee for a misdemeanor trial before the court is $300 per day.

□ Trial before Court $300.00 - day

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Page 1 | MISDEMEANOR

The hourly fee listed for capital cases with the death penalty is $125, subject to court approval.

□ Capital-Death Penalty $125.00

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Page 1 | HOURLY - WITH COURT APPROVAL

The listed fee for a non-death-penalty capital-case appeal is $3,000.

□ Appeal - Non Death Penalty $3,000.00

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Page 1 | CAPITAL CASES

The hourly fee listed for juvenile, misdemeanor, and first-degree felony services is $75, subject to court approval.

□ Juvenile, Misdemeanor, First Degree Felony $75.00

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Page 1 | HOURLY - WITH COURT APPROVAL

The listed fee for a single juvenile jury appeal is $1,000.

□ Appeal, single, jury $1,000.00

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Page 1 | JUVENILE

The hourly fee listed for capital cases without the death penalty is $100, subject to court approval.

□ Capital-Non Death Penalty $100.00

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Page 1 | HOURLY - WITH COURT APPROVAL

The listed fee for a misdemeanor writ of habeas corpus is $150.

□ Writ of Habeas Corpus $150.00

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Page 1 | MISDEMEANOR

The listed fee for a felony non-jury appeal is $750.

□ Appeal - Non Jury $750.00

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Page 1 | FELONY

The listed fee for a single juvenile non-jury appeal is $750.

□ Appeal, single, non-jury $750.00

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Page 1 | JUVENILE

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

Upon request, the expense request and denial must be submitted as a sealed exhibit to the record.

Submit the request and denial as a sealed exhibit to the record.

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Page 27 | C. Payment of Expenses

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

For a top-ten Rolling Trial Docket case that is not ready for trial, a reset to another scheduled trial week requires a granted continuance order based on a written motion filed before the Trial Announcement Hearing, where the Court will hear the motion.

Any defendant with a case within the top ten cases on the Rolling Trial Docket that is not ready for trial will only be reset to another scheduled trial week by the granting of an order continuing the case made by a written motion for continuance. Motions for continuance must be filed prior to the Trial Announcement Hearing. The Court will hear motions for continuance at the Trial Announcement Hearing.

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Page 2 | VI. TRIAL ANNOUNCEMENT HEARING

As a general rule, the Court will not reset a Status Conference Hearing without good cause shown.

As a general rule, the Court will not reset the Status Conference Hearing except for good cause shown.

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Page 1 | III. STATUS CONFERENCE HEARING

Court-wide rules

Applies court-wide

These 4 rules apply across Henderson County District Courts. Where this judge's own standing orders above address the same topic, the judge's requirement controls.

Formatting

All 4
  • Civil and family case numbers use the specified case-type code, two-digit year, four-digit annual sequence, and assigned court number, with separate numbering systems for each court.

  • Criminal case numbers use CR, the last two digits of the calendar year, a four-digit annual sequence, and the assigned court number, with separate numbering systems for each court.

  • Cause numbers use the displayed format for the corresponding case prefix.

Common questions about Judge R. Scott Mckee's rules

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge R. Scott Mckee?

Judge R. Scott Mckee's formatting rule includes video file exhibits must be mpeg-4 part 14 (.mp4) files.. Video file exhibits must be MPEG-4 Part 14 (.mp4) files.

View ruleSource: page 2, section III. DIGITAL AUDIO/VIDEO EXHIBITS

What must be included with attorney fee voucher filings before Judge R. Scott Mckee?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Court approval is required for employing investigators and expert witnesses and for all their fees.

View ruleSource: page 1, section HOURLY - WITH COURT APPROVAL

What must be included with monthly progress statement filings before Judge R. Scott Mckee?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. A monthly progress statement must be submitted before payment and include the listed case information; the presiding judge may require other relevant information.

View ruleSource: page 5, section Certification of Knowledge of Standing Rules for Procedures for Timely and Fair Appointment of Counsel for Indigent Accused Persons in Henderson County, Texas

How does Judge R. Scott Mckee handle sealed or redacted filings?

Judge R. Scott Mckee's rules set procedures for sealed or redacted filings. Upon request, the expense request and denial must be submitted as a sealed exhibit to the record.

View ruleSource: page 27, section C. Payment of Expenses

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge R. Scott Mckee?

Advance notice is not fully stated in the rule details. For a top-ten Rolling Trial Docket case that is not ready for trial, a reset to another scheduled trial week requires a granted continuance order based on a written motion filed before the Trial Announcement Hearing, where the Court will hear the motion.

View ruleSource: page 2, section VI. TRIAL ANNOUNCEMENT HEARING

Is electronic filing required before Judge R. Scott Mckee?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Applications must be submitted by mail or hand delivery to the designated address.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Notice of Application

Are filing fees or waivers addressed before Judge R. Scott Mckee?

A fee is required for covered filings. The listed fee for waiver on probable cause is $70.

View ruleSource: page 1, section MENTAL

What filing deadlines does Judge R. Scott Mckee set?

The magistrate must submit the specified bail form no later than 72 hours after bail is set.

View ruleSource: page 6, section III. B. Public Safety Reporting System

What service or proof of service rules apply before Judge R. Scott Mckee?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. The State must receive notice when a written arraignment waiver is filed.

View ruleSource: page 1, section I. ARRAIGNMENT
Complete rules summary for Judge R. Scott Mckee

The listed fee for waiver on probable cause is $70.

The listed fee for probable cause is $100.

The listed fee for a continuance is $100.

The listed fee for medication is $100.

The listed fee for extended commitment is $200.

The listed fee for initial detention is $175.

The listed fee for subsequent detention is $100.

The listed fee for adjudication or disposition is $350.

The listed fee for a determinate sentence is $500.

The listed fee for a single juvenile jury appeal is $1,000.

The listed fee for a single juvenile non-jury appeal is $750.

The listed fee for a contested trial or motion to modify is $250 for one-half day.

The listed fee for a plea or dismissal in a single misdemeanor case is $300.

The listed fee for a plea or dismissal in multiple misdemeanor cases is $500.

The listed fee for a misdemeanor writ of habeas corpus is $150.

The listed fee for a misdemeanor trial before the court is $300 per day.

The listed fee for a misdemeanor jury trial is $400 per day.

The listed fee for a single-case misdemeanor jury appeal is $600.

The listed fee for a felony writ of habeas corpus or no bill is $150.

The listed fee for a plea to information is $350.

The listed fee for a plea or dismissal in a single felony case is $500.

The listed fee for a plea or dismissal in multiple felony cases is $750.

The listed fee for a felony probable cause writ is $350.

The listed fee for a suppression hearing is $350.

The listed fee for a felony jury trial is $600.

The listed fee for a felony non-jury appeal is $750.

The listed fee for a felony jury appeal is $1,500.

Felony trial preparation is listed at up to $1,000.

The listed fee for first-chair death-penalty service is $1,000 per day.

The listed fee for second-chair death-penalty service is $750 per day.

More Judges in Henderson County District Courts

Clint Davis
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Mark Calhoon
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