Wichita County Courts at Law
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Adjournments
- A continuance, postponement, or reset request may be granted only if all counsel consent or nonjoining parties receive notice and an opportunity to object.
- Even when all counsel agree to a continuance, the Court may deny it or require a hearing.
- Unless all counsel consent in writing and the Court approves, a continuance request requires a motion under the applicable Texas rule or statute, accompanied by an order setting a hearing; a noncompliant motion will be denied without prejudice.
- +3 more
Request must include
Document Format Requirements4 rules
All designations must be in writing and filed with the appropriate Clerk, the Court Administrator and each Court Coordinator.
Requests for jury trial settings shall be in writing and filed with the Clerk, and a copy shall be delivered to the Court Coordinator and opposing counsel.
All designations must be in writing
It is recommended that each party file this inventory in a form substantially similar to the form found in the Texas Family Law Practice Manual published by the State Bar of Texas.
Document Filing Requirements57 rules
A copy of this document shall be attached to any newly filed family law matter so as to constitute appropriate notice to all parties of the Court's standing order.
Attorneys and self-represented litigants using AI for legal research or drafting must, before using AI-generated information in a court submission or proceeding, sign and submit the required certification as an attachment to each AI-generated pleading, verifying the AI-generated content and acknowledging responsibility and potential sanctions.
- Document
- Pleading
Must include
- •AI disclosure
Court's wording
All self-represented litigants and attorneys who utilize any form of artificial intelligence for legal research or drafting in connection with a case shall, before using any Al-generated information in a court submission or proceeding, sign and submit the form hereinbelow as an attachment to each pleading generated utilizing artificial intelligence, certifying that: 1. All language, quotations, sources, citations, arguments, and legal analysis created or contributed to by generative artificial intelligence were before submission verified as accurate through traditional (non-AD legal sources, and 2. That the person understands and acknowledges that they are and will be held responsible, and potentially sanctioned, for their or their co-counsel's failure to comply with this Order.
2. All information created or contributed to by génerative artificial intelligence : - including language, quotations,2 sources, citations, arguments, and legal analysis - was before submission. to the Court verified as accurate using traditional (non-artificial intelligence) legal sources by a human being.
Attorneys and self-represented litigants who use AI for legal research or drafting must sign and submit the certification form as an attachment to each AI-generated pleading before using AI-generated information in a court submission or proceeding.
- Document
- Pleading
Must include
- •AI disclosure
Court's wording
All self-represented litigants and attorneys who utilize any form of artificial intelligence for legal research or drafting in connection with a case shall, before using any Al-generated information in a court submission or proceeding, sign and submit the form hereinbelow as an attachment to each pleading generated utilizing artificial intelligence, certifying that: 1. All language, quotations, sources, citations, arguments, and legal analysis created or contributed to by generative artificial intelligence were before submission verified as accurate through traditional (non-AI) legal sources, and 2. That the person understands and acknowledges that they are and will be held responsible, and potentially sanctioned, for their or their co-counsel's failure to comply with this Order.
The certification states that the filer reviewed and will comply with the AI standing order, that AI-created or contributed information was verified by a human using traditional legal sources before submission, and that noncompliance may result in sanctions.
- Document
- Certification
Include
- •AI disclosure
Court's wording
I, an attorney or self-represented litigant in the above numbered and titled cause, hereby certify as follows: 1. I reviewed and understand this Court's Standing Order Regarding Artificial Intelligence. I will comply with the Standing Order throughout this case: 2. All information created or contributed to by generative artificial intelligence - including language, quotations, sources, citations, arguments, and legal analysis - was before submission to the Court verified as accurate using traditional (non-artificial intelligence) legal sources by a human being. 3. 1 understand that I will be held responsible and subject to possible sanctions under Texas. Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct, Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 10, and the inherent power of the Court, or for contempt of court, for failing to comply with the Court's Standing Order or this certification.
Self-represented litigants and attorneys using AI for legal research or drafting must sign and submit the prescribed certification as an attachment to each AI-generated pleading, verifying the AI-generated material and acknowledging responsibility for compliance.
- Document
- Pleading
Must include
- •AI disclosure
Court's wording
All self-represented litigants and attorneys who utilize any form of artificial intelligence for legal research or drafting in connection with a case shall, before using any. Al-generated information in a court submission or proceeding. sign and submit the form hereinbelow as an attachment to each pleading generated utilizing artificial intelligence, certifying that: 1. All language, quotations, sources, citations, arguments, arid legal analysis created or contributed to by generative artificial intelligence were before submission verified as accurate through traditional (non-Al) legal sources, and 2. That the person understands and acknowledges that they are and will be held responsible, and potentially sanctioned, for their or their co-counsel's failure to comply with this Order.
The AI-use certification states that the filer reviewed and will comply with the Standing Order, that a human verified AI-generated information using traditional legal sources before submission, and that noncompliance may result in sanctions or contempt.
- Document
- Certification
Include
- •AI disclosure
Court's wording
I, an attorney or self-represented litigant in the above numbered and titled cause, hereby certify as follows: 1. I reviewed and understand this Court's Standing Order Regarding Artificial Intelligence. I will comply with the Standing Order throughout this case. 2. All information created or contributed to by generative artificial intelligence - including language, quotations, sources, citations, arguments, and legal analysis - was before submission to the Court verified as accurate using traditional (non-artificial intelligence) legal sources by a human being. 3. I understand that I will be held responsible and subject to possible sanctions under Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct, Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 10, and the inherent. power of the Court, or for contempt of court, for failing to comply with the Court's Standing Order or this certification.
Such emails shall include the full name, mailing address, telephone number, fax number (if applicable) and State Bar of Texas number (if applicable) of the sender.
A continuance motion must be accompanied by an order setting the motion for a hearing unless all counsel consent in writing and the Court approves.
Court's wording
Unless counsel for all parties consent in writing to the request for a continuance and the same is approved by the Court, a motion must be filed pursuant to Rule 251, et seq. of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, as amended or Article 29.01, et seq. of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, as applicable, and the motion must be accompanied by an order setting the motion for a hearing.
Requests for jury trial settings shall be in writing and filed with the Clerk, and a copy shall be delivered to the Court Coordinator and opposing counsel.
Motions must include a certificate describing unsuccessful resolution efforts by date, action, and method; if an opposing pro se party does not respond, counsel may certify nonresponse, and a motion without the certificate will not be set for hearing until it is filed.
Court's wording
All motions shall contain a certificate by the party filing same that efforts to resolve the dispute without Court intervention have been attempted and failed and shall set forth specifically the efforts taken by date, action and method. If an opposing party is pro se, and that party does not respond to efforts to confer, counsel may certify that the pro se party failed to respond. c. Any motion omitting such certificate shall not be set for hearing until such certification has been filed.
Docket Control Order which shall set the appropriate deadlines for the case and shall include a trial setting.
Except in response to a ruling or order entered by the Court, no order shall be filed without an accompanying Motion clearly setting forth the relief sought and the specific grounds in support of the relief.
Any Order submitted to the Court shall be signed by the attorney submitting the Order, approving the Order as to form, unless it is submitted as a Rule 11 Agreement, in which case the attorneys shall sign the Order, approving it as to form and content.
Agreed orders of any kind shall be approved by all counsel as to form and content. All other orders shall be approved as to form.
In all cases, the attorney submitting the Order shall provide to all opposing counsel and/or pro se parties a copy of the Order bearing the Clerk’s file stamp.
Counsel presenting any application for an ex parte order shall, at the time the application is presented to the Court, certify in writing that:
No ex-parte order shall be presented to the court unless accompanied by a copy of the application or motion.
If another attorney is not to be substituted as attorney for the party, or if the party does not consent to the motion to withdraw, the withdrawing attorney shall notify the client in writing that the Court will be requested to sign an order granting the withdrawal on or after ten (10) days following the date of such notice.
Arraignment may be waived in writing if signed by the attorney, and filed at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the scheduled arraignment.
Any order providing for a minor settlement and the investment of settlement proceeds by the District Clerk shall include the social security number, address (physical address, not a post office box) and date of birth for the minor.
Not later than seven (7) days prior to the Pretrial Conference, the attorney for the State shall provide the attorney for the defendant either a written plea bargain offer or a written notice that the State does not intend to make a plea bargain offer in the case.
When the specific judge requires a plea information form, it must be completed and filed with the designated recipients before a plea hearing may be scheduled.
Court's wording
If required by the specific judge, a completed plea information form shall be filed with the District Clerk and the Court Administrator. In the courts requiring a plea information form, no plea hearing shall be scheduled until a completed plea information form has been filed with the proper designee.
An order modifying or terminating community supervision may be submitted without a hearing only if opposing counsel and the Community Corrections and Supervision Department approve it and it accompanies the motion; otherwise, the motion must be accompanied by an order setting a hearing.
Court's wording
No order modifying or terminating community supervision shall be submitted to the Court for approval without a hearing unless it has been approved by opposing counsel and the Community Corrections and Supervision Department and is accompanied by the motion requesting the relief granted. If the order has not been approved by opposing counsel and the Community Corrections and Supervision Department, there shall be an order setting the matter to hearing that accompanies the motion.
No order shall be submitted to the Court for approval without a hearing unless it has been approved by opposing counsel and is accompanied by the motion requesting the relief granted. If the order has not been approved by opposing counsel, there shall be an order setting the matter for hearing that accompanies the motion.
No retained attorney shall be permitted to withdraw from a case without first presenting a written motion and obtaining from the court an order permitting withdrawal, and provided the withdrawal of counsel does not interfere with the orderly disposition of the criminal prosecution.
Arraignment may be waived in writing if signed by the attorney
The parties must complete the courts’ plea information form when the specific judge requires it.
Court's wording
The Criminal District Attorney and counsel for the defendant shall coordinate the scheduling of pleas with the Court Coordinator, and as required by a specific judge, shall complete a plea information form promulgated by the courts.
In all cases in which temporary payment of debts or support of a spouse and/or the child is in issue, each party shall be required to furnish: 1. A statement of monthly income and expenses;
In all cases in which temporary payment of debts or support of a spouse and/or the child is in issue, each party shall be required to furnish: 2. Copies of that party’s federal income tax returns for the two calendar years prior to the temporary hearing; and/or
When the Clerk is legally designated to provide information to a third party, the applicable forms must be presented with the judgment for signature and filed with the judgment.
Court's wording
In all cases in which the Clerk is designated by law to provide certain information to a third party, including but not limited to, reports of divorce or annulment of marriage, information on child in suit affecting parent- child relationship and certificate of last known address, the forms containing this information MUST be presented to the Court at the time the judgment is presented for signature, and then filed with the Clerk along with the judgment.
Each party completing the course shall file a certificate of completion with the court within thirty (30) days of completion of the course, or prior to the final hearing on the merits of the case.
Each order or decree which provides for child support to be paid through the Texas Child Support Disbursement Unit shall include and shall be deemed to include, an application for child support services provided by
In all cases in which the character, value or division of property or debts is in issue, each party shall file, not less than thirty (30) days prior to trial, a sworn inventory and appraisement of all of the separate and community property owned or claimed by the parties and all debts and liabilities owed by the parties.
After each party’s sworn inventory and appraisement has been filed, and if property issues are not completely resolved, the parties shall file a composite inventory and appraisement.
Whenever the Court orders the payment of child support, modifies or enforces a child support order, the obligee or the obligee’s attorney shall complete a record of order of child support. Forms shall be available from the District Clerk.
Upon filing, a case in which parentage is to be determined is deemed to include an application for Title IV-D services, and the Attorney General is a necessary party.
Court's wording
All cases involving parentage as an issue to be determined and adjudicated by the Court, whether an action arising in a Suit to Establish or Terminate the Parent Child Relationship, Divorce, or other proceeding, shall, upon filing, be deemed to include an application for Title IV-D services provided by the Office of the Attorney General of Texas, pursuant to Chapter 231 of the Texas Family Code, constituting the Attorney General as a necessary party in such case.
the motion must be accompanied by an order setting the motion for a hearing.
Any announcement of “Not Ready” shall be accompanied by a motion for continuance.
Any motion omitting such certificate shall not be set for hearing until such certification has been filed.
Any Order submitted to the Court shall be signed by the attorney submitting the Order, approving the Order as to
All motions shall contain a certificate by the party filing same that efforts to resolve the dispute without Court intervention have been attempted and failed and shall set forth specifically the efforts taken by date, action and method.
form, unless it is submitted as a Rule 11 Agreement, in which case the attorneys shall sign the Order, approving it as to form and content.
Counsel presenting an ex parte application must certify in writing, when presenting it, that the opposing party is unrepresented or that one of the specified notice conditions applies.
Court's wording
Counsel presenting any application for an ex parte order shall, at the time the application is presented to the Court, certify in writing that: 1. to the best of counsel’s knowledge, the party against whom the relief is sought is not represented by counsel; or 2. if the party against whom the relief is sought is represented by counsel, that (i) such counsel has been notified of the application and does not wish to be heard by the Court thereon; or (ii) counsel presenting the application has diligently attempted to notify opposing counsel, has been unable to do so, and the circumstances do not permit additional efforts to give such notice.
Where the specific judge requires a plea information form, counsel must complete and file it with the designated recipients before a plea hearing may be scheduled.
Court's wording
The District Attorney and counsel for the defendant shall coordinate the scheduling of pleas with the Court Administrator, and as required by the specific judge, shall complete a plea information form promulgated by the courts. If required by the specific judge, a completed plea information form shall be filed with the District Clerk and the Court Administrator. In the courts requiring a plea information form, no plea hearing shall be scheduled until a completed plea information form has been filed with the proper designee.
Arraignment may be waived in writing if signed by the attorney and filed at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the scheduled arraignment.
When temporary payment of debts or support of a spouse or child is at issue, each party must furnish a monthly income-and-expense statement, specified tax returns, and the listed earnings records.
Court's wording
In all cases in which temporary payment of debts or support of a spouse and/or the child is in issue, each party shall be required to furnish: 1. A statement of monthly income and expenses; 2. Copies of that party’s federal income tax returns for the two calendar years prior to the temporary hearing; and/or 3. All payroll statements, pay stubs, W2 forms, and/or 1099 forms which evidence that party’s earnings for the calendar year prior to the temporary hearing and from January 1 of the current year through the date of the temporary hearing.
Department, there shall be an order setting the matter to hearing that accompanies the motion.
When the Clerk is legally designated to provide information to a third party, the forms containing that information must be presented with the judgment for signature and filed with the Clerk along with the judgment.
Court's wording
In all cases in which the Clerk is designated by law to provide certain information to a third party, including but not limited to, reports of divorce or annulment of marriage, information on child in suit affecting parent- child relationship and certificate of last known address, the forms containing this information MUST be presented to the Court at the time the judgment is presented for signature, and then filed with the Clerk along with the judgment.
Each order or decree which provides for child support to be paid through the Texas Child Support Disbursement Unit shall include and shall be deemed to include, an application for child support services provided by the Texas Attorney General.
Upon filing, a case in which parentage is to be determined is deemed to include an application for Texas Attorney General Title IV-D services, making the Attorney General a necessary party.
Court's wording
All cases involving parentage as an issue to be determined and adjudicated by the Court, whether an action arising in a Suit to Establish or Terminate the Parent Child Relationship, Divorce, or other proceeding, shall, upon filing, be deemed to include an application for Title IV-D services provided by the Office of the Attorney General of Texas, pursuant to Chapter 231 of the Texas Family Code, constituting the Attorney General as a necessary party in such case. (This rule shall apply to all cases involving parentage as an issue to be determined and adjudicated by the Courts of Wichita County after the effective date of these rules.)
1. I reviewed and understand this Court's Standing Ordér Regarding Artificial Intelligence. I will comply with the Standing Order throughout this case.
Unless another law requires acceptance of Title IV-D services, an eligible petitioner may decline them by filing a written refusal with the Attorney General and may later apply for services in writing.
Court's wording
Unless required to accept Title IV-D child support services pursuant to other laws, any petitioner entitled to receive services pursuant to this rule may decline services by filing a written Refusal of IV-D Child Support Services with the Office of the Attorney General. Refusal of IV-D services pursuant to this rule does not preclude a subsequent written application for services.
All designations must be in writing and filed with the appropriate Clerk, the Court Administrator and each Court Coordinator.
A person entitled to receive child support services may decline such services on forms provided by the Texas Attorney General at the time collection efforts are initiated. Only the services of the Texas Attorney General may be declined.
If an opposing party is pro se, and that party does not respond to efforts to confer, counsel may certify that the pro se party failed to respond.
Unless required to accept Title IV-D child support services pursuant to other laws, any petitioner entitled to receive services pursuant to this rule may decline services by filing a written Refusal of IV-D Child Support Services with the Office of the Attorney General.
Filing & Service rules
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
Designations must be made at least 60 days before the designated period begins.
All designations must be made at least sixty (60) days prior to the first day of the period designated.
Page 7
Unless the Court orders otherwise or law requires otherwise, a jury-trial setting request must be filed by the docket call two months before trial.
Except upon order of the Court, or where otherwise required by law, such request shall be filed by the date of the docket call 2 months prior to the date of the requested jury trial (i.e. for a March jury trial, the request must be received by the January docket call).
Page 10 | RULE 1.5 TRIAL SETTINGS
Written docket-call announcements may be sent to the Court Administrator and Coordinator and must be received by 4:00 p.m. on the preceding Tuesday.
Written announcements for docket call may be made to the Court Administrator and Coordinator provided the written announcements are received at or before 4:00 p.m. on the Tuesday immediately preceding the docket call.
Page 10 | RULE 1.5 TRIAL SETTINGS
Within 5 calendar days after opposing counsel receives a temporary order, it must be forwarded to the Court in the same manner described for other orders.
and within five (5) calendar days after receipt by opposing counsel, shall be forwarded to the Court in the same fashion.
Page 12 | RULE 1.9 ORDERS AND DECREES – TIME FOR SUBMISSION
Temporary orders must be reduced to writing within 10 calendar days.
Temporary orders shall be reduced to writing within (10) calendar days,
Page 12 | RULE 1.9 ORDERS AND DECREES – TIME FOR SUBMISSION
Within 10 calendar days after receiving the proposed order, opposing counsel must deliver it to the Court for signature or send the Court and all counsel specific written objections to its form.
Within ten (10) calendar days after receipt by opposing counsel, opposing counsel shall deliver the order to the Court for signature, or deliver to the Court and all counsel specific written objections to the form of the proposed order.
Page 12 | RULE 1.9 ORDERS AND DECREES – TIME FOR SUBMISSION
Within 20 calendar days after rendition, announcement of the Court’s ruling, or announcement of settlement by counsel, designated counsel must reduce final judgments and decrees to writing and forward them to the Court and opposing counsel for approval as to form.
Within twenty (20) calendar days after rendition, announcement of the Court’s ruling or announcement of settlement by counsel, all final judgments and decrees shall be reduced to writing by counsel designated by the Court and forwarded to the Court and opposing counsel for approval as to form.
Page 12 | RULE 1.9 ORDERS AND DECREES – TIME FOR SUBMISSION
An arraignment waiver must be filed at least 48 hours before the scheduled arraignment.
Arraignment may be waived in writing if signed by the attorney, and filed at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the scheduled arraignment.
Page 16 | RULE 3.1 ARRAIGNMENT
Arraignment may be waived in writing if signed by the attorney and filed at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the scheduled arraignment.
Arraignment may be waived in writing if signed by the attorney and filed at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the scheduled arraignment.
Page 19 | RULE 4.1 ARRAIGNMENT
A certificate of course completion is due within 30 days of course completion or before the final hearing on the merits.
Each party completing the course shall file a certificate of completion with the court within thirty (30) days of completion of the course, or prior to the final hearing on the merits of the case.
Page 21 | RULE 5.2 d. Verification of Attendance
The applicable Clerk information forms must be presented when the judgment is presented for signature and filed with the judgment.
In all cases in which the Clerk is designated by law to provide certain information to a third party, including but not limited to, reports of divorce or annulment of marriage, information on child in suit affecting parent- child relationship and certificate of last known address, the forms containing this information MUST be presented to the Court at the time the judgment is presented for signature, and then filed with the Clerk along with the judgment.
Page 21 | RULE 5.1
When property or debt issues are in dispute, each party must file the sworn inventory and appraisement at least 30 days before trial.
In all cases in which the character, value or division of property or debts is in issue, each party shall file, not less than thirty (30) days prior to trial, a sworn inventory and appraisement of all of the separate and community property owned or claimed by the parties and all debts and liabilities owed by the parties.
Page 22 | RULE 5.3 a. Inventory and Appraisement Required
The Petitioner must initiate and forward the composite inventory to the Respondent for completion at least 14 days before trial.
The Petitioner shall initiate the composite inventory and forward it to the Respondent for completion not less than fourteen (14) days prior to trial.
Page 22 | RULE 5.3 b. Composite Inventory and Appraisement
The Respondent must complete and file the composite inventory and serve a copy on the Petitioner at least 7 days before trial.
The Respondent shall complete and file the composite inventory with the court and serve a copy of the same on the Petitioner not less than seven (7) days prior to trial.
Page 22 | RULE 5.3 b. Composite Inventory and Appraisement
Temporary orders must be reduced to writing within 10 calendar days.
Temporary orders shall be reduced to writing within (10) calendar days
Page 35 | RULE 1.9 ORDERS AND DECREES – TIME FOR SUBMISSION
Temporary orders must be forwarded to the Court within 5 calendar days after opposing counsel receives them.
within five (5) calendar days after receipt by opposing counsel, shall be forwarded to the Court in the same fashion.
Page 35 | RULE 1.9 ORDERS AND DECREES – TIME FOR SUBMISSION
The required forms must be presented when the judgment is presented for signature and then filed with the Clerk along with the judgment.
In all cases in which the Clerk is designated by law to provide certain information to a third party, including but not limited to, reports of divorce or annulment of marriage, information on child in suit affecting parent- child relationship and certificate of last known address, the forms containing this information MUST be presented to the Court at the time the judgment is presented for signature, and then filed with the Clerk along with the judgment.
Page 44 | RULE 5.1
Service and Proof of Service Rules
Non-jury settings require at least 10 days’ notice to opposing counsel or parties, except where statute or the Rules of Civil Procedure provide otherwise.
Except where provided by statute or the Rules of Civil Procedure, all non-jury settings shall be on at least 10 days notice to opposing counsel and/or parties.
Page 9 | RULE 1.5 TRIAL SETTINGS
A copy of each jury-trial setting request must be delivered to the Court Coordinator and opposing counsel.
Requests for jury trial settings shall be in writing and filed with the Clerk, and a copy shall be delivered to the Court Coordinator and opposing counsel.
Page 10 | RULE 1.5 TRIAL SETTINGS
Unless the court orders otherwise, the parties must serve or exchange exhibit lists and make exhibits available for inspection, witness lists, deposition-excerpt designations, and motions in limine at least 14 days before the pretrial conference.
Unless otherwise ordered specifically, at least 14 days prior to the pre-trial conference, the parties shall serve or exchange the following things: 1. Exhibit lists (and make exhibits available for inspection); 2. Witness lists; 3. Designation of deposition excerpts (written or video tape); 4. Motions in Limine.
Page 13 | RULE 2.2 PRETRIAL CONFERENCE
The parties must serve objections to the listed pretrial items, including objections to exhibits, within seven days after receiving those items.
The parties are to serve objections to the above referenced items, including objections to each party’s exhibits, no later than seven (7) days after receipt of the above-referred items.
Page 13 | RULE 2.2 PRETRIAL CONFERENCE
The required notice to the client must be sent by certified mail with return receipt requested.
Notice shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested.
Page 14 | RULE 2.3 WITHDRAWAL OF COUNSEL
A responding party seeking affirmative relief must serve its temporary-order application and hearing notice on the adverse party in accordance with Texas Rules of Civil Procedure 5 and 21a.
An application to the court for a temporary order and notice of any hearing thereupon which is presented by a party responding to an application for temporary orders in which that party is seeking affirmative relief shall be served on the adverse party in accordance with Rule 5 and Rule 21a of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, as amended.
Page 20 | RULE 5.1 TEMPORARY HEARINGS — b. Notice Required When Responding Party Seeking Affirmative Relief
The Respondent must serve the Petitioner with a copy of the completed composite inventory at least 7 days before trial.
The Respondent shall complete and file the composite inventory with the court and serve a copy of the same on the Petitioner not less than seven (7) days prior to trial.
Page 22 | RULE 5.3 b. Composite Inventory and Appraisement
The attorney submitting an Order must provide opposing counsel and/or pro se parties a copy bearing the Clerk’s file stamp.
In all cases, the attorney submitting the Order shall provide to all opposing counsel and/or pro se parties a copy of the Order bearing the Clerk’s file stamp.
Page 35 | TITLE 1. RULES GOVERNING ALL PROCEEDINGS
Unless the Court specifically orders otherwise, the parties must serve or exchange exhibit lists and make exhibits available for inspection, witness lists, deposition-excerpt designations, and motions in limine at least 14 days before the pre-trial conference.
Unless otherwise ordered specifically, at least 14 days prior to the pre-trial conference, the parties shall serve or exchange the following things: 1. Exhibit lists (and make exhibits available for inspection); 2. Witness lists; 3. Designation of deposition excerpts (written or video tape); 4. Motions in Limine.
Page 36 | RULE 2.2 PRETRIAL CONFERENCE
If another attorney is not to be substituted as attorney for the party, or if the party does not consent to the motion to withdraw, the withdrawing attorney shall notify the client in writing that the Court will be requested to sign an order granting the withdrawal on or after ten (10) days following the date of such notice. Notice shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested.
If another attorney is not to be substituted as attorney for the party, or if the party does not consent to the motion to withdraw, the withdrawing attorney shall notify the client in writing that the Court will be requested to sign an order granting the withdrawal on or after ten (10) days following the date of such notice. Notice shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested.
Page 37 | RULE 2.3 WITHDRAWAL OF COUNSEL
Filing Fees and Waivers
The District Clerk may set and collect reasonable fees allowed by law when a suit affecting the parent-child relationship is filed.
Such reasonable fees as allowed by law, may be set and collected by the District Clerk at the time a suit affecting the parent-child relationship is filed.
Page 23 | Fees for Services
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Information about the child’s social security number, address, and date of birth must not be released except by court order or as required by the Clerk to invest the funds.
Information pertaining to the child (social security number, address and date of birth) shall not be released except upon Court Order or as required by the Clerk for investing the funds.
Page 16 | RULE 2.7 MINOR SETTLEMENTS
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Before filing a motion, moving counsel must confer with counsel for affected parties to determine whether the motion will be opposed, except for motions allowed by law to be filed ex parte, motions to dismiss the entire action, summary-judgment motions, and motions for new trial.
Except for motions expressly allowed by law to be filed ex-parte, before filing any motion, counsel for a moving party shall confer with the counsel for all parties affected by the requested relief to determine whether or not the contemplated motion will be opposed. Such conference is required for all motions except motions to dismiss the entire action, motions for summary judgment and motions for new trial.
Page 11 | RULE 1.6 CONFERENCE REQUIRED – CIVIL CASES ONLY
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Unless all counsel consent in writing and the Court approves, a continuance request requires a motion under the applicable Texas rule or statute, accompanied by an order setting a hearing; a noncompliant motion will be denied without prejudice.
Unless counsel for all parties consent in writing to the request for a continuance and the same is approved by the Court, a motion must be filed pursuant to Rule 251, et seq. of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, as amended or Article 29.01, et seq. of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, as applicable, and the motion must be accompanied by an order setting the motion for a hearing. Any motion that does not meet these requirements will be denied without prejudice to the right to refile.
Page 6 | RULE 1.2 REQUESTS FOR CONTINUANCE OR POSTPONEMENT
A continuance, postponement, or reset request may be granted only if all counsel consent or nonjoining parties receive notice and an opportunity to object.
No request for a continuance, to pass, postpone or reset any trial, pretrial, or other hearing shall be granted unless counsel for all parties consent, or unless all parties not joining in such request have been notified and have had an opportunity to object.
Page 6 | RULE 1.2 REQUESTS FOR CONTINUANCE OR POSTPONEMENT
Even when all counsel agree to a continuance, the Court may deny it or require a hearing.
Agreement by counsel for all parties to a continuance does not mean automatic approval by the Court, and the Court reserves the right to deny or require a hearing even on agreed continuances.
Page 6 | RULE 1.2 REQUESTS FOR CONTINUANCE OR POSTPONEMENT
A “Not Ready” announcement must be accompanied by a motion for continuance.
Any announcement of “Not Ready” shall be accompanied by a motion for continuance.
Page 10 | RULE 1.5 TRIAL SETTINGS
If a temporary order, final judgment, or decree is not furnished within the applicable time, the Court may continue the case or place it on the dismissal docket at its discretion.
Upon failure to furnish the Court with a temporary order, final judgment, or decree, within the applicable time period, the Court may continue the case or place the case on the Court’s dismissal docket, at the Court’s discretion.
Page 12 | RULE 1.9 ORDERS AND DECREES – TIME FOR SUBMISSION
The order-submission time limits may be extended upon written motion showing good cause.
The foregoing time limits may be expanded upon written motion for good cause shown.
Page 12 | RULE 1.9 ORDERS AND DECREES – TIME FOR SUBMISSION
Chambers Communication Rules
Ex-parte communications with the Court are prohibited, including electronic communications.
All ex-parte communications with the Court by attorneys, pro se parties, and any other persons are prohibited. This prohibition includes, but is not limited to, electronic communications.
Page 3 | RULE 1.1 CONDUCT AND COURTROOM DECORUM
Emails responding to an inquiry from the Judge must be copied to all attorneys of record and any pro se parties.
Emails sent to the Judge’s email address in response to an inquiry by the Judge shall be copied to all attorneys of record as well as any pro se parties.
Page 3 | RULE 1.1 CONDUCT AND COURTROOM DECORUM
Anyone seeking information from the Court must direct the inquiry to the Court Coordinator.
Any person seeking information from the Court regarding any matter whatsoever shall direct such inquiry to the Court Coordinator for the Court.
Page 3 | RULE 1.1 CONDUCT AND COURTROOM DECORUM
An attorney with conflicting trial settings must immediately notify the courts concerned upon learning of the conflict; failure to do so can result in sanctions.
Whenever an attorney has two or more cases on trial dockets for trial at the same time, it shall be the duty of the attorney to bring the matter to the attention of the courts concerned immediately upon learning of the conflicting settings. Failure to timely notify the conflicting courts can result in sanctions allowed by the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure or the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
Page 7 | RULE 1.3 a. Duty of Counsel to Notify Court
All parties must notify the Court Coordinator as soon as practical of settlements and cancellations of trials or settings.
All parties shall be responsible for notifying the Court Coordinator as soon as practical of settlement and/or cancellations of trials and/or settings.
Page 9 | RULE 1.5 TRIAL SETTINGS
Regular non-jury matters must be scheduled with the Court Coordinator.
All matters to be heard on regular non-jury days shall be set with the Court’s Coordinator.
Page 9 | RULE 1.5 TRIAL SETTINGS
The stated conditions for seeking ex parte relief include that opposing counsel has been notified and does not wish to be heard, or that diligent notice efforts failed and circumstances prevent further efforts.
1. to the best of counsel’s knowledge, the party against whom the relief is sought is not represented by counsel; or 2. if the party against whom the relief is sought is represented by counsel, that (i) such counsel has been notified of the application and does not wish to be heard by the Court thereon; or (ii) counsel presenting the application has diligently attempted to notify opposing counsel, has been unable to do so, and the circumstances do not permit additional efforts to give such notice.
Page 13
The District Attorney and defense counsel must coordinate plea scheduling with the Court Administrator.
The District Attorney and counsel for the defendant shall coordinate the scheduling of pleas with the Court Administrator,
Page 17 | RULE 3.2 SCHEDULING OF PLEAS
The Criminal District Attorney and defense counsel must coordinate plea scheduling with the Court Coordinator.
The Criminal District Attorney and counsel for the defendant shall coordinate the scheduling of pleas with the Court Coordinator
Page 19 | RULE 4.3 SCHEDULING PLEAS
An attorney with simultaneous trial settings must notify the courts concerned immediately upon learning of the conflict.
Whenever an attorney has two or more cases on trial dockets for trial at the same time, it shall be the duty of the attorney to bring the matter to the attention of the courts concerned immediately upon learning of the conflicting settings.
Page 30 | RULE 1.3 CONFLICT IN TRIAL SETTINGS — a. Duty of Counsel to Notify Court
The Criminal District Attorney and defense counsel must coordinate plea scheduling with the Court Coordinator.
The Criminal District Attorney and counsel for the defendant shall coordinate the scheduling of pleas with the Court Coordinator, and as required by a specific judge, shall complete a plea information form promulgated by the courts.
Page 42 | RULE 4.3 SCHEDULING PLEAS
Unsolicited emails sent to the Judge may be deleted without being opened.
Unsolicited emails, sent to the Judge’s email address, may be deleted without being opened.
Page 3 | RULE 1.1 CONDUCT AND COURTROOM DECORUM
The Judge may require all communications to be sent by first class or certified mail and may refuse communications sent by other means.
The Judge may, at any time, require all communications to be by first class mail or certified mail and may refuse to accept any communication made by any other means.
Page 4 | RULE 1.1 CONDUCT AND COURTROOM DECORUM
Written docket-call announcements may be sent to the Court Administrator and Coordinator if received by 4:00 p.m. on the preceding Tuesday.
Written announcements for docket call may be made to the Court Administrator and Coordinator provided the written announcements are received at or before 4:00 p.m. on the Tuesday immediately preceding the docket call.
Page 33 | RULE 1.5 TRIAL SETTINGS
Misdemeanor docket-call announcements may be made to the Court Coordinator in writing, by fax, or by email.
Written announcements for misdemeanor docket call may be made to the Court Coordinator in writing or by fax or email.
Page 19 | RULE 4.2 DOCKET CALL
Counsel handling mental health and probate cases should contact the respective Court Coordinators for case-specific guidelines.
Counsel handling these cases should contact the Court Coordinators of the respective courts for specific guidelines applicable to those cases.
Page 25 | RULE 7.7 MENTAL HEALTH AND PROBATE