Judge Elton R. Mathis

Applies to

Motion

Must include

certificate of conference

Motions requesting a hearing or affirmative relief must include a certificate of conference unless the motion is agreed to or unopposed.

Applies to

De novo hearing request

A request for a de novo hearing must identify the issues to be reconsidered with particularity.

Applies to

De novo hearing request

Parties should be prepared to brief disputed legal rulings and explain why new evidence could not be presented to the Associate Judge.

objection to the Associate Judge presiding over a final hearing on the merits should do so again in writing and/or on the record on or before the final pre-trial hearing.

A party waives the right to a de novo hearing by failing to make a timely, specific objection before the proceeding begins.

A party may accept the Associate Judge’s merits ruling and reserve a de novo hearing request by making a specific motion in writing or on the record before the proceeding begins.

Motions to withdraw may be noticed by submission with proper service on client and opposing counsel.

Service

Mail

The client must be sent a copy of the withdrawal order and notice of current deadlines and settings by certified mail.

Applies to

Pleadings

In a family law case, each litigant must serve the other party with the Standing Restraining Order along with their pleadings.

Concerns that arise during or about an ongoing proceeding should be addressed to the bailiffs first.

Parties, attorneys, and witnesses who expect to leave the courtroom for an extended period should tell the bailiff how long they will be gone and why; otherwise, they risk default or, in a criminal case, bond forfeiture.

People wishing to provide social services or leave related handouts or flyers should consult the Court, County Judge, or County Clerk beforehand.