Taylor County Courts at Law
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Adjournments
- The party or attorney asserting the cause of action bears the burden of disposing of the case or obtaining a good-cause extension of the dismissal deadline.
- Continuance requests must be in writing and will be set for hearing; the attorney who obtains a new hearing date must confirm it in writing with opposing counsel and the Court.
- When counsel agree to a continuance, the requesting attorney must obtain a new hearing date and confirm it with the Court and opposing counsel.
- +6 more
Request must include
Document Format Requirements3 rules
Requests for jury trials must be made in writing
All requests for de novo hearings must be in writing and filed in accordance with Chapter 201 of the Texas Family Code.
The State must make the Defendant’s TCIC/NCIC criminal history available to defense counsel through the discovery portal in READ ONLY format.
Court's wording
The State of Texas, by and through the Taylor County Criminal District Attorney's Office, shall permit counsel for Defendant to examine the criminal history of the Defendant as maintained by the Texas Crime Information Center/National Crime Information Center (TIC/NCIC) by placing a copy of the Defendant's TCIC/NCIC criminal history in READ ONLY format in the discovery portal.
Document Filing Requirements66 rules
Independent Administration and Heirship applications must be filed separately, with two separate orders submitted.
Court's wording
Probate Applications for Independent Administration and Applications to Determine Heirship cannot be combined into one Application. They must be filed as two separate Applications and must submit two separate Orders.
A non-jury setting request must be written, addressed to the judge, and specify that it is non-jury, preferred or unavailable dates, and the estimated trial length.
Court's wording
A request for setting SHALL BE: (1) in writing _ .(2) addressed to the judge of the court, with (3) a copy being simultaneously mailed and/or delivered to ALL attorneys of record . The request shall specify that the setting is non-jury, date or dates preferred (Qr unavailable) and estimated ·ler:igth oftrial.
A request for setting SHALL BE: (1) in writing _ .(2) addressed to the judge of the court, with (3) a copy being simultaneously mailed and/or delivered to ALL attorneys of record
Motions for removal from the dismissal docket shall set out the reason for past inac~ivity, and the date on which the case will be ready for tnal.
All pleadings for ancillary, temporary and emergency matters shall first be filed with the Clerk and ·then brought to the attention of the Court Administrator.
Requests for settings: Non~iury: Requests for settings of contested final hearings shall be in=writing and directed to the Court Administrator, with :copies to the ·Clerk and opposing counsel;. and shall:· 1. Specify all matters to·be heard;. and, 2. Certify that both coun~el have agreed to the estimated time requested to hear a!I matters. Where settin'g
In the specified support actions, each party must prepare a financial disclosure form and furnish two current pay stubs.
Court's wording
In all actions in which the Associate Judge or Judge is requested to set temporary alimony, child support or any other type of support, and in all actions involving a motion to increase or decrea-se support. each party shall prepare a financial disclosure form and deliver a copy of such form to the adverse party or his counsel and the Associate Judge or Judge prior to the hearing. Each party shall furnish two current pay stubs.
To facilitate collection of child support and to promote accuracy in the recording of payments, waivers of citation shall contain a place for the respondent's address. social security . number and driver's license number, either in the body or under the signature .
In cases involving an appreciable amount of property in dispute, counsel for each party shall prepare a list of property involved with estimates of value note~ thereon.
In actions requesting child support or involving a motion to increase or decrease child support, each party must prepare a financial disclosure form and furnish two current pay stubs.
Court's wording
C. In all actions which the Associate Judge D°t Judge is requested to set child support and in all actions involving a motion to increase or decrease child support, each party shall prepare a financial disclosure form and deliver a cqpy of such form to the adverse party or his counsel and the Associate Judge or Judge prior to the hearing. Each party shall furnish two current pay stubs.
A request for a hearing on a Motion to Modify must certify that counsel conferred and agreed on the estimated time needed for the hearing.
- Document
- Motion to modify hearing request
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
Court's wording
Requests for hearings on Motions to Modify shall be in ~riting and directed to the Court Administrator, with copies to the Clerk and opposing counsel, and shall certify that both counsel have conferred together and agreed to the estimated time requested to hear the entire matter.
Proposed orders shall be presented with requests for hearing on temporary orders, contempts and applications for protective orders
- Document
- Request for hearing
Must include
- •Proposed order
Appeals must be written, identify the portion of the Associate Judge's ruling being appealed, and include a hearing request in the notice.
Court's wording
All appeals shall be in writing, specifying·that portion of the·Associate Judge's ruling which is being appealed, ·and notice shall be given to opposing counsel. The notice shall also contain a request for a hearing and shall be filed and presented to the Court within the time required by statute.
Written orders after the hearings by the Associate Judge shall provide appropriate signature spaces for both the Judge and the Associate Judge.
In resetting contempts and requests for temporary restraining orders, an order setting heanng is required.
The Attorney Ad Litem must track their time and submit a proposed Order to the County Judge.
Must include
- •Proposed order
A non-jury trial-setting request must be written, addressed to the judge, specify the requested setting details, and represent a reasonable, good-faith expectation of trial readiness.
Court's wording
A request for trial setting constitutes a representation that the requesting party reasonably and in good faith expects to be ready for trial by the date requested. A request for setting shall be (1) In writing; (2) Addressed to the judge of the Court; with (3)A copy being simultaneously mailed and/or otherwise delivered to all attorneys of record and/or any pro se parties. The request shall specify that the setting is a non-jury setting, as well as the date(s) preferred and estimated length of trial.
A jury trial-setting request must be written, addressed to the judge, specify the requested setting details, and represent a reasonable, good-faith expectation of trial readiness.
Court's wording
A request for jury trial setting constitutes a representation that the requesting party reasonably and in good faith expects to be ready for trial by the date requested. A request for setting shall be (1) In writing; (2) Addressed to the judge of the Court; with (3) A copy being simultaneously mailed and/or delivered to all attorneys of record and/or any pro se parties. The request shall specify that the setting is a jury setting, as well as the date(s) preferred and estimated length of trial.
Motions for removal from the dismissal docket shall set out the reason for past inactivity, and the date on which the case will be ready for trial.
A request to remove a case from the dismissal docket must be made by written motion.
Court's wording
Unless a written motion for removal from the dismissal docket is filed prior to the expiration of twenty days after the mailing of the notice, the case is subject to dismissal for lack of prosecution at any time after the expiration of the twenty-day period.
If the motion will be opposed, a certificate shall be attached to the motion and signed by the attorney in charge (or pro se). The Certificate of Conference shall state the following: (1) the date of the conference; (2) the names of the attorneys who conferred; (3) that the conference included all issues raised in the pleading; (4) that agreement could not be reached; and (5) that the pleading is therefore presented to the Court for determination.
- Document
- Motion
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
In the specified support actions, each party must prepare a financial disclosure form before the hearing.
Court's wording
In all actions in which the Associate Judge or Judge is requested to set temporary alimony, child support or any other type of support, and in all actions involving a motion to increase or decrease support, each party shall prepare a financial disclosure form and deliver a copy of such form to the adverse party or his counsel and the Associate Judge or Judge prior to the hearing.
Each party shall furnish two current pay stubs.
Requests for jury trials must be made in writing and will not be granted unless the jury fee is paid.
In the specified child-support actions, each party must prepare a financial disclosure form before the hearing.
Court's wording
In all actions in which the Associate Judge or Judge is requested to set child support and in all actions involving a motion to increase or decrease child support, each party shall prepare a financial disclosure form and deliver a copy of such form to the adverse party or his counsel and the Associate Judge or Judge prior to the hearing.
A copy of the list shall be presented to opposing counsel at least three days before trial and to the Court prior to any testimony being offered.
When an amicus attorney or attorney or guardian ad litem is required by law, the appointment request must be made in writing to the Court Administrator.
Court's wording
In cases where amicus attorneys or attorneys or guardians ad litem are required by law, the request for an appointment of same shall be made in writing to the Court Administrator who will supply the attorney's name next appearing on the Court's rotating list.
In cases where amicus attorneys or attorneys or guardians ad litem are within the Court's discretion, a motion must be filed and a hearing on the motion is required.
In cases involving an appreciable amount of property in dispute, counsel for each party shall prepare a list of property involved with estimates of value noted thereon.
All requests for de novo hearings must be in writing and filed in accordance with Chapter 201 of the Texas Family Code.
Proposed orders shall be presented with requests for hearing on temporary orders, proceedings for contempt, and applications for protective orders.
- Document
- Hearing request
Must include
- •Proposed order
In resetting contempt hearings and requests for temporary restraining orders, an order setting hearing is required.
A request to appear electronically shall be made by written motion filed along with a proposed order.
- Document
- Electronic appearance request
Must include
- •Proposed order
The filing party shall also file a blank notice setting the Motion for a hearing or an agreed order approved by all counsel, CASA (if any), and any pro se parties that have appeared in the suit.
The request shall include the reason the person is unable to appear in person.
The requesting party shall also send a notice of hearing and/or a proposed order on the Motion.
Any party or attorney who does not appear at a hearing to enter must file written objections to the proposed order. Otherwise, any objections by that party or attorney will be deemed waived.
In the event a child wishes to confer with the Court, a party shall file a Motion to Confer specifying the legal and factual bases of the request, including the age of the child.
A party requesting a transcript of an electronically recorded hearing shall submit a written request containing the specified hearing, transcript, reporter, and payment information, plus expense justification if the requester is a minor or indigent parent.
Court's wording
To obtain a transcript of an electronically recorded hearing, the requesting party shall provide to the Court a written request including the following information: 1. The date and time of the hearing; 2. A designation of which portion of the hearing is to be transcribed; 3. The name, phone number, mailing address, and email address of the court reporter the requesting party wishes to have transcribe the hearing; 4. The name of the party responsible for paying the Court Reporter; and 5. If the requesting party is a minor or an indigent parent, reasons detailing why the requested expense is reasonable and necessary.
Any attorney maintained on the list of ad litem attorneys representing either children or parents shall provide proof of annual CLE requirements to the CPC Court Coordinator by October 1s of each year.
Completion of form is required to set up your child support account.
By filing an application, pro se litigants attest that they are eligible under the Standing Order and understand the Clerk's Office is unlikely to refund filing fees if they cannot proceed.
Court's wording
By filing an application, pro-se litigants are attesting to the fact that they are eligible to file under the Standing Order and are stating that they understand that the Taylor County Clerk's Office is unlikely to give a refund on Filing Fees if a pro-se litigant is not able to proceed on their Application under the Standing Order.
All appointments will still be sworn in during the hearing in Court.
A request for jury trial setting constitutes a repres~ntation that the requesting party reasonably and in good faith exp~cts. to be ready for trial· by the date requested .
A request for trial setting constitutes a representation that the requesting 'Party reasonably and in good faith expects to be ready for trial by the date requested.
Such judgment or order should be approved as to form by opposing counsel.
In the event of a counsel's refusal to approve a judgment or order as to form, any party may submit a proposed:judgment or order to the Court with certificate of service to opposing to co~nsel.
- Document
- Proposed judgment or order
May include
- •Certificate of service
All orders should direct that payments be made to the State Disbursement Unit.
All orders should specify that the hearing will be before the Associate Judge.
In the event of a counsel's refusal or failure to approve a judgment or order as to form, any party may submit a proposed judgment or order to the Court with certificate of service to opposing counsel or pro se party.
- Document
- Proposed judgment or order
Include
- •Certificate of service
In order to get a case set for an uncontested hearing, counsel or pro se party shall request the setting using the request form attached hereto. A request for setting constitutes an announcement of ready for trial.
If counsel did not confer regarding the merits of the pleading, the Certificate of Conference shall include the following: (1) the date and time of each attempt to confer; (2) the name of the attorney with whom counsel attempted to confer; (3) that
To facilitate collection of child support and to promote accuracy in the recording of payments, waivers of citation shall contain a place for the respondent's physical address, email address, last three digits of the social security number, and driver's license number either in the body or under the signature.
All orders should specify that the hearing will be before the Associate Judge.
If a party wishes to reset a hearing, a Motion for Continuance with a Certificate of Conference should be filed with the District Clerk.
- Document
- Motion for continuance
Should include
- •Certificate of conference
If an appointed attorney or the client of such an attorney requests withdrawal of counsel, a motion to withdraw should be filed and a notice of hearing should be submitted to the Court.
If a party wishes to have an order placed on this docket, a written request should be made to the Court Coordinator with notice to all parties.
For the misdemeanor arraignments described, an attorney may waive arraignment by making an official written appearance before the arraignment date; if waived, neither the defendant nor the attorney must attend.
Court's wording
When a defendant is released from the Taylor County Detention Center on a misdemeanor charge, the Defendant and bondsman will be notified of the arraignment date, which is on Thursday at 8:30 a.m. for County Court at Law No. 1 or Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. for County Court at Law No. 2, at least seven full days following the release. Persons arrested on Taylor County misdemeanor warrants in other counties and their bondsmen are notified by mail by the Court Administrator of the date of arraignment. A Defendant's attorney may waive arraignment and make official appearance in the case in writing prior to this arraignment date, and, in such case, neither the Defendant nor his attorney need to be present at the arraignment.
In a District Court case following indictment, an attorney may waive arraignment by making an official written appearance before the arraignment date; if waived, neither the defendant nor the attorney must attend.
Court's wording
After an indictment is returned and filed in a District Court, the arraignment date will be scheduled by the Court, with notice sent to the Defendant's surety and/or attorney, if any, or to the Defendant if the Defendant has no surety or attorney. A Defendant's attorney may waive arraignment and make an official appearance in the case in writing prior to the arraignment date, and, in such case, neither the Defendant nor his attorney need to be present at the arraignment.
Proofs of Death and Oaths/Declarations of Executors, Administrators and Guardians can be notarized before their appointment in Court.
In absence ·of Court direction, upon the rendition of a verdict either by a jury or by the Court, ajudgment or other order may be prepared by any party and submitted to the Court for entry.
Unless required to accept IV-D child support services pursuant to other laws, a child support obligee entitled to receive services pursuant to this rule may decline services by filing a written Refusal of Child Support Services with the District Clerk.
Refusal of the IV-D Child Support Services pursuant to this rule does not preclude that person from makihg a subsequent written application for IV-D Child Support Services.
In the absence of Court direction, upon the rendition of a verdict either by a jury or by the Court, a judgment or other order may be prepared by any party and submitted to the Court for entry.
Such judgment or order should be approved as to form by opposing counsel or pro se party.
The guidelines of Chapter 154 of the Family Code and the rules thereunder apply to all original proceedings and motions to modify child support. All orders should direct that payments be made to the State Disbursement Unit.
Filing & Service rules
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
A written motion to remove a case from the dismissal docket must be filed before the 20-day period after mailing of notice expires, or the case may be dismissed for lack of prosecution thereafter.
Unless e;1 written motion for removal from the dismissal docket is filed prior to the expiration of twenty (20) day after the mailing of the notice, the case is subject to dismissal for lack of prosecution at any time after the expiration of the twenty day period.
Page 7 | Rule 2.5 Dismissal Docket: Involuntary Dismissal
If a setting request lacks the required certification, opposing counsel must inform the Court in writing within five days that the requested time is insufficient.
Where settin'g requests do ·not so certify, opposing counsel has the obligation to inform the Court in .writing within 5 days of the request, that the amount of time requested is not sufficient.
Page 8 | Rule 3.3 Disposition Proposals
Objections to the Associate Judge are untimely if filed after the statutory deadline.
Objections to the Associate Judge will be considered untimely filed if filed later than the time allowed by statute.
Page 11 | Rule 3.12 B. Objections
The appeal notice must be filed and presented to the Court within the time required by statute.
The notice shall also contain a request for a hearing and shall be filed and presented to the Court within the time required by statute.
Page 12 | Rule 3.12 E. Recommendations of the Associate Judge
Recipients must inform the Court of objections to a non-jury trial setting within seven days after receiving the request.
The attorneys and/or pro se parties receiving the request shall inform the Court of any objections to the requested setting within seven days of receiving the request.
Page 3 | RULE 2.1 - REQUEST FOR SETTING WITHOUT A JURY
A written motion to remove a case from the dismissal docket must be filed before twenty days expire after the notice is mailed; afterward, the case is subject to dismissal for lack of prosecution.
Unless a written motion for removal from the dismissal docket is filed prior to the expiration of twenty days after the mailing of the notice, the case is subject to dismissal for lack of prosecution at any time after the expiration of the twenty-day period.
Page 4 | RULE 2.3 - DISMISSAL DOCKET; INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL
Pretrial motions must be filed early enough to give the opposing party at least three days’ notice before the Pretrial Hearing.
All pretrial motions will be heard at the Pretrial Hearing and said motions must be filed in time to provide the opposing party not less than 3 days' notice prior to the hearing.
Page 7 | Rule 3.5.2 - Pretrial Hearings
Objections to the Associate Judge are untimely if filed after the statutory deadline.
Objections to the Associate Judge will be considered untimely filed if filed later than the time allowed by statute.
Page 9 | Rule 3.11.2 - Objections
A person or entity seeking payment for services must submit its claim within 30 days after the later of completing the work or the applicable discharge order being signed; a late claim may be denied.
In all claims tor payment of fees or expenses from any person or entity requesting payment for services (e.g. court-appointed attorney ad litem, guardian ad litem, interpreter, court-reporter, etc.), the person or entity shall submit the claim for payment within 30 days after the later of completion of the work or an order discharging said person or entity is signed by the Court, if applicable. Failure to submit the claim for payment within said 30 days may result in denial of the claim.
Page 10 | Rule 3.13 - Court-Appointed Payments
Proof of annual CLE requirements must be provided to the CPC Court Coordinator by October 1 each year.
Any attorney maintained on the list of ad litem attorneys representing either children or parents shall provide proof of annual CLE requirements to the CPC Court Coordinator by October 1s of each year.
Page 14 | RULE 4.15 - CONTINUING LEGAL EDUCATION FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS
Cases should be disposed of within six months of filing because dismissal dockets are prepared each April and October.
Dismissal dockets are prepared eacn April and October, therefore cases should.be disposed of within six months ·of the date of filing.
Page 8 | Rule 3.1 Time Standards for Family Law Case Disposition
The Court may enter the judgment or order after ten days unless opposing counsel has objected during that period; if objections are received, any party or the Court may request a hearing.
After .a ten day period, the Court may enter the Judgment.or order unless opposing counsel has given notice of objections. If objections are received by the Court during the ten day period, a hearing for entry of the judgment or order may be requested by any party or on the Court's motion.
Page 8 | Rule 2.7 Submission of Orders; Judgments. Instruments
After the ten-day period, the Court may enter the judgment or order unless opposing counsel or the pro se party has given notice of objections.
After a ten-day period, the Court may enter the judgment or order unless opposing counsel or pro se party has given notice of objections.
Page 5 | RULE 2.4 - SUBMISSION OF ORDERS, JUDGMENTS, INSTRUMENTS
Cases should be disposed of within six months of filing, in light of dismissal dockets prepared each April and October.
Dismissal dockets are prepared each April and October. Therefore, cases should be disposed of within six months of the date of filing.
Page 5 | RULE 3.1 - TIME STANDARDS FOR FAMILY LAW CASE DISPOSITION
Requests for electronic appearance at trial should normally be filed before pretrial.
Requests for electronic appearance at trial should normally be filed before pretrial.
Page 12 | RULE 4.4 - ELECTRONIC HEARINGS
When possible, a request for electronic appearance should be filed early enough to obtain a ruling before the hearing or trial.
When possible, the request should be filed in sufficient time for a ruling before the hearing or trial.
Page 12 | RULE 4.4 - ELECTRONIC HEARINGS
Service and Proof of Service Rules
A copy of the non-jury setting request must be mailed and/or delivered to all attorneys of record at the same time as the request.
a copy being simultaneously mailed and/or delivered to ALL attorneys of record
Page 6 | Rule 2.3 Request for Settings - Non-Jury
When a case is placed on the dismissal docket, notice must be mailed to attorneys of record and appearing parties who are not represented by counsel.
When a case is placed on the.dismissal docket, notice shall be mailed to all attorneys of record, or any party who has.made an appearance, and who is not represented by counsel·.
Page 7 | Rule 2.5 Dismissal Docket: Involuntary Dismissal
In the specified support actions, each party must deliver the financial disclosure form to the adverse party or counsel and the judge before the hearing.
In all actions in which the Associate Judge or Judge is requested to set temporary alimony, child support or any other type of support, and in all actions involving a motion to increase or decrea-se support. each party shall prepare a financial disclosure form and deliver a copy of such form to the adverse party or his counsel and the Associate Judge or Judge prior to the hearing.
Page 9 | Rule 3.5 Financial Information statements
In the specified child-support actions, each party must deliver a copy of the financial disclosure form to the adverse party or counsel and the judge before the hearing.
C. In all actions which the Associate Judge D°t Judge is requested to set child support and in all actions involving a motion to increase or decrease child support, each party shall prepare a financial disclosure form and deliver a cqpy of such form to the adverse party or his counsel and the Associate Judge or Judge prior to the hearing.
Page 10 | Rule 3.6 Child support guidelines
A copy of the property list must be presented to opposing counsel at least three days before trial and to the Court before testimony begins.
A copy of the list shall be presented to opposing counsel at least three dc;lys before trial and to the Court prior to any testimony being offered.
Page 10 | Rule 3.9 Inventory and Appraisement
Notice of an appeal must be given to opposing counsel.
notice shall be given to opposing counsel.
Page 12 | Rule 3.12 E. Recommendations of the Associate Judge
A copy of a non-jury trial-setting request must be mailed or otherwise delivered to all attorneys of record and any pro se parties at the same time as the request.
(3)A copy being simultaneously mailed and/or otherwise delivered to all attorneys of record and/or any pro se parties.
Page 3 | RULE 2.1 - REQUEST FOR SETTING WITHOUT A JURY
Notice that a case has been placed on the dismissal docket must be mailed to its attorneys of record or any appearing unrepresented party.
When a case is placed on the dismissal docket, notice shall be mailed to all attorneys of record, or any party who has made an appearance and who is not represented by counsel.
Page 4 | RULE 2.3 - DISMISSAL DOCKET; INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL
A copy of a jury trial-setting request must be mailed or delivered to all attorneys of record and any pro se parties at the same time as the request.
(3) A copy being simultaneously mailed and/or delivered to all attorneys of record and/or any pro se parties.
Page 4 | RULE 2.2 - REQUEST FOR SETTING WITH A JURY
A copy of the financial disclosure form must be delivered to the adverse party or counsel and the Associate Judge or Judge before the hearing in the specified support actions.
In all actions in which the Associate Judge or Judge is requested to set temporary alimony, child support or any other type of support, and in all actions involving a motion to increase or decrease support, each party shall prepare a financial disclosure form and deliver a copy of such form to the adverse party or his counsel and the Associate Judge or Judge prior to the hearing.
Page 7 | Rule 3.6 - Financial Information Statements
A copy of the financial disclosure form must be delivered to the adverse party or counsel and the Associate Judge or Judge before the hearing in the specified child-support actions.
In all actions in which the Associate Judge or Judge is requested to set child support and in all actions involving a motion to increase or decrease child support, each party shall prepare a financial disclosure form and deliver a copy of such form to the adverse party or his counsel and the Associate Judge or Judge prior to the hearing.
Page 8 | Rule 3.7 - Child Support Guidelines
A copy of the property list must be provided to opposing counsel at least three days before trial.
A copy of the list shall be presented to opposing counsel at least three days before trial and to the Court prior to any testimony being offered.
Page 8 | Rule 3.8 - Inventory and Appraisement
The party obtaining a continuance must notify all other attorneys and pro se litigants of the new setting’s date, time, and location.
The party obtaining a continuance shall notify all other attorneys and pro se litigants of the new setting date, time, and location.
Page 12 | RULE 4.5 - CONTINUANCES
The Court Administrator notifies defendants arrested on Taylor County misdemeanor warrants in other counties and their bondsmen of the arraignment date by mail.
Persons arrested on Taylor County misdemeanor warrants in other counties and their bondsmen are notified by mail by the Court Administrator of the date of arraignment.
Page 13 | Rule 4.2 Arraignment (Initial Appearance)
A party submitting the proposed judgment or order in this circumstance must provide a certificate of service to opposing counsel or the pro se party.
In the event of a counsel's refusal or failure to approve a judgment or order as to form, any party may submit a proposed judgment or order to the Court with certificate of service to opposing counsel or pro se party.
Page 5 | RULE 2.4 - SUBMISSION OF ORDERS, JUDGMENTS, INSTRUMENTS
If a party wishes to have an order placed on this docket, a written request should be made to the Court Coordinator with notice to all parties.
If a party wishes to have an order placed on this docket, a written request should be made to the Court Coordinator with notice to all parties.
Page 13 | RULE 4.12 - HEARINGS TO ENTER
Filing Fees and Waivers
The jury fee must be paid before a jury-trial request is placed on the docket.
Requests for jury trials must be made in writing and will not be placed on the docket until the jury fee is paid.
Page 9 | D. Request for settings: Jury
A $500 Attorney Ad Litem deposit must be tendered to the appointed attorney before a disposition hearing can be set in covered Probate and Guardianship cases.
As of August 1, 2025, in all Probate and Guardianship cases filed in the Taylor County Court a $500.00 Attorney Ad Litem deposit will be required to be tendered to the appointed attorney before a disposition hearing can be set.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 1: FOR COUNTY COURT CASES ONLY
The Attorney Ad Litem must hold the deposit in trust and return any unused portion to the applicant's attorney within seven business days after the disposition hearing.
The Attorney Ad Litem will hold that deposit in trust and must return any unused portion to the applicant's attorney within seven business days after a disposition hearing.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 1: FOR COUNTY COURT CASES ONLY
A jury-trial request will not be granted unless the jury fee is paid.
Requests for jury trials must be made in writing and will not be granted unless the jury fee is paid.
Page 7 | Rule 3.5.5 - Requests for Jury Settings
The Attorney Ad Litem may bill more than $500 when applicable, and the Applicant is responsible for the fees once the County Court Judge signs the fee-approval Order.
The Attorney Ad Litem can bill for over $500 if that situation applies, and the Applicant will be legally responsible for fees once the County Court Judge signs the Order Approving Attorney Ad Litem Fees.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 1: FOR COUNTY COURT CASES ONLY
The Clerk's Office is unlikely to refund filing fees if a pro se litigant cannot proceed with an application under the Standing Order.
By filing an application, pro-se litigants are attesting to the fact that they are eligible to file under the Standing Order and are stating that they understand that the Taylor County Clerk's Office is unlikely to give a refund on Filing Fees if a pro-se litigant is not able to proceed on their Application under the Standing Order.
Page 1 | Rule 1: FOR COUNTY COURT CASES ONLY
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Physician's Statements in the specified guardianship cases are sealed and unavailable to the public unless the court issues a written order.
In Guardianship cases filed in County Court, County Court at Law and County Court at Law #2, all Physician's Statements are sealed documents and are not available to the public, unless a written Order is received from the Court in which the case is filed.
Page 1 | Rule 2
Suits filed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and suits seeking termination of parental rights or adoption of a minor are sealed; access to or copies from a sealed file require the Judge’s permission.
All suits filed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and any suit filed by any party for termination of parental rights and/or adoption of a minor are sealed. Permission by the Judge is required for obtaining access to or copies from any sealed file.
Page 10 | Rule 3.12 - Sealed Files
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Before setting a hearing on a motion, request, or special exception, filing counsel must attempt to schedule a conference with opposing counsel, and both counsel must make a good-faith effort to resolve all issues and determine whether the contemplated motion will be opposed.
Prior to setting a hearing on a motion, request, or special exception, counsel for the filing party shall attempt to schedule a conference with opposing counsel to resolve the disputed matters and determine whether a contemplated motion will be opposed. Both counsel shall attempt in good faith to resolve any and all issues in the pleading.
Page 6 | Rule 3.5.1 - Certificates of Conference
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Continuance requests must be in writing and will be set for hearing; the attorney who obtains a new hearing date must confirm it in writing with opposing counsel and the Court.
Requests for continuances must be in writin~ and will-be set for . hearing. The attorney obtaining a new hea~mg date shall confirm the setting in writing with opposing counsel and the Court.
Page 8 | Rule 3.3 Disposition Proposals
When counsel agree to a continuance, the requesting attorney must obtain a new hearing date and confirm it with the Court and opposing counsel.
When continuances are granted by agreements of counsel, the attorney requesting the continuance must obtain a new hearing date and confirm t.he same with both the Court and opposing. counsel.
Page 11 | Rule 3.12 C. Settings
Continuance requests must be written and set for hearing; the attorney who obtains a new hearing date must confirm it in writing with opposing counsel and the Court.
Requests for continuances must be in writing and will be set for hearing. The attorney obtaining a new hearing date shall confirm the setting in writing with opposing counsel and the Court.
Page 7 | Rule 3.5.4 - Continuances
For a continuance granted by counsel’s agreement, the requesting attorney must obtain a new hearing date and confirm it with the Court and opposing counsel.
When continuances are granted by agreements of counsel, the attorney requesting the continuance must obtain a new hearing date and confirm the same with both the Court and opposing counsel.
Page 10 | Rule 3.11.3 - Settings
All continuances in DFPS cases require Court approval.
Given the time sensitive nature of the hearings in cases involving DFPS, all continuances require Court approval.
Page 12 | RULE 4.5 - CONTINUANCES
The party or attorney asserting the cause of action bears the burden of disposing of the case or obtaining a good-cause extension of the dismissal deadline.
The burden for disposing the case or obtaining and extension of the dismissal deadline for good cause.shall be upon the party or att_orney asserting the caus~ of action subject to dismissal.
Page 7 | Rule 2.5 Dismissal Docket: Involuntary Dismissal
The party or attorney asserting the cause of action bears the burden of disposing of the case or obtaining an extension of the dismissal deadline for good cause.
The burden for disposing the case or obtaining an extension of the dismissal deadline for good cause shall be upon the party or attorney asserting the cause of action subject to dismissal.
Page 5 | Dismissal docket procedure
When a setting conflict occurs, a CPS setting takes precedence over a non-CPS setting; otherwise, the oldest non-CPS setting takes precedence and the later setting must be reset unless law provides otherwise, and a party with a scheduling conflict must file a motion for continuance in the appropriate case.
Having a case set with the Judge at the same time one is set with any Associate Judge of the 326t District Court is a setting conflict. In that event, a setting in a CPS case takes precedence over a setting in a non-CPS case. Otherwise, when a setting conflict occurs involving a case before the Judge and a case before an Associate Judge in a non-CPS case, the oldest setting shall take precedence and the later set case shall be reset for another time unless otherwise provided by law. Any party that has a scheduling conflict must file a motion for continuance in the appropriate case.
Page 6 | RULE 3.3 - SETTING CONFLICTS
Vacation or leave letters filed after a hearing is scheduled do not automatically continue the hearing.
Vacation or leave letters filed after a hearing is scheduled do not constitute an automatic continuance.
Page 12 | RULE 4.5 - CONTINUANCES
Chambers Communication Rules
Requests for hearings on Motions to Modify must be in writing, directed to the Court Administrator, copied to the Clerk and opposing counsel, and certify counsel's agreement on the estimated hearing time.
Requests for hearings on Motions to Modify shall be in ~riting and directed to the Court Administrator, with copies to the Clerk and opposing counsel, and shall certify that both counsel have conferred together and agreed to the estimated time requested to hear the entire matter.
Page 11 | Rule 3.12 C. Settings
The new hearing date for an agreed continuance must be confirmed with the Court and opposing counsel.
When continuances are granted by agreements of counsel, the attorney requesting the continuance must obtain a new hearing date and confirm t.he same with both the Court and opposing. counsel.
Page 11 | Rule 3.12 C. Settings
The referenced matter must be made in writing to the Court Administrator, who will provide the next attorney on the Court's rotating list.
be made in writing to the Court Administrator who will supply the attorney's name next appearing on the Court's rotating list.
Page 11
After filing a request for a de novo hearing, the filing attorney or self-represented party must bring it to the Court Administrator’s attention.
When a request is filed, the filing attorney or pro se party must bring it to the Court Administrator's attention.
Page 9 | Rule 3.11.5 - De Novo Requests
Parties requesting additional hearing time must notify the Court Coordinator as soon as they become aware of the need and provide an estimate of the time requested.
If the parties request additional time, they shall notify the Court Coordinator as soon as they are aware of the need for additional time and shall provide an estimated time request.
Page 12 | RULE 4.6 - TIME LIMITATIONS
If the Motion to Confer is granted, the requesting party shall contact the Court Coordinator for the conference date and time.
If the Motion is granted, the requesting party shall contact the Court Coordinator to receive the date and time of the conference.
Page 13 | RULE 4.8 - MOTIONS TO CONFER
Requests for copies of pleadings or other file documents shall be directed to the Taylor County District Clerk.
Requests for copies of pleadings or other documents from the file shall be directed to the Taylor County District Clerk.
Page 14 | RULE 4.14 - COPIES
The notified attorney must inform the judge of scheduling or other problems within five days after receiving the notice.
The. non- requesting. (i.e. notified) attorney shall Within five (5). days from the receipt of.the notice inform thejudge ofscheduling or other problems.
Page 6 | Rule 2.3 Request for Settings - Non-Jury
The notified attorney must inform the judge of scheduling or other problems within five days after receiving the notice.
The non-requesting attorney shall within five (5) days from the receipt of the notice inform the judge of scheduling or other problems.
Page 6 | Rule 2.4 Request for Settings - Jury
If contempt actions are expected to be contested and lengthy, the Court Administrator should be advised at the time of the request for hearing.
If contempt actions are expected to be contested and lengthy, the Court Administrator should be advised at the time of the request for hearing.
Page 11 | Rule 3.12 C. Settings
An attorney may request a two-week period each calendar year when no cases involving that attorney will be set by sending a vacation letter to the judge 90 days before the period begins.
Any attorney may request the court not to set any cases involving such attorney for a designated two (2) week period during any calendar year. Such vacation letter shall be sent to the judge of the court ninety (90) days prior to the commencement of the vacation period, and in such event no cases shall be set for that attorney during the designated two week period.
Page 13 | Rule 6 — Attorneys of Record
Pleadings for ancillary, temporary, and emergency matters must first be filed with the Clerk and then brought to the Court Administrator’s attention.
All pleadings for ancillary, temporary, and emergency matters shall first be filed with the Clerk and then brought to the attention of the Court Administrator.
Page 5 | RULE 3.2 - ANCILLARY PROCEEDINGS, TEMPORARY ORDERS, AND EMERGENCY MATTERS
When a contempt action is expected to be contested and lengthy, the Court Administrator should be advised when the hearing is requested.
If contempt actions are expected to be contested and lengthy, the Court Administrator should be advised at the time of the request for hearing.
Page 9 | Rule 3.11.3 - Settings
An attorney may request that no cases involving them be set during a designated two-week annual vacation period by sending a vacation letter to the Judge at least 90 days beforehand.
Any attorney may request the Court not to set any cases involving such attorney for a designated two-week period during any calendar year. Such vacation letter shall be sent to the Judge of the Court ninety days prior to the commencement of the vacation period, and in such event no cases shall be set for that attorney during the designated two-week period.
Page 16 | RULE 7.1 - ATTORNEY VACATION LETTERS
Judges who agree to swap assigned months must notify the local administrative judges.
If judges wish to swap months by agreement, they must notify the local administrative judges.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER REGARDING ASSIGNMENT OF JUDGES FOR EMERGENCY MATTERS