Williamson County Courts at Law

Electronic filings must comply with applicable e-filing rules, including Rule 21c’s Sensitive Data requirements.

Electronic filings must comply with Tex. R. Civ. P. 21 and any other applicable electronic filing rules or standards. Counsel are specifically directed to the Sensitive Data requirements of Tex. R. Civ. P. 21c.

Page 9 | H. E-FILING OF COURT DOCUMENTS

Attorneys must file documents electronically.

Attorneys must use the electronic filing system.

Page 9 | H. E-FILING OF COURT DOCUMENTS

Attorneys must file documents using the electronic filing system.

Attorneys must use the electronic filing system.

Page 9 | H. E-FILING OF COURT DOCUMENTS

Electronic filings must comply with Rule 21 and applicable e-filing standards, and counsel must follow Rule 21c’s Sensitive Data requirements.

Electronic filings must comply with Tex. R. Civ. P. 21 and any other applicable electronic filing rules or standards. Counsel are specifically directed to the Sensitive Data requirements of Tex. R. Civ. P. 21c.

Page 9 | H. E-FILING OF COURT DOCUMENTS

The Clerk may accept court-action documents by electronic transmission, except returns of service on issuances, bonds, and signed orders or judgments.

The Clerk is authorized to accept for filing via electronic transmission any document which might be filed in a court action except: a) returns of service on issuances; b) bonds; c) signed orders or judgments;

Page 7 | F. ELECTRONICALLY TRANSMITTED COURT DOCUMENTS

Electronically tendered documents will not be filed if fees are unpaid, payment information is incomplete, or the documents do not conform to applicable rules.

Documents tendered to the Clerk electronically without payment of court costs and fees, or with incomplete information for payment, or which do not conform to applicable rules, will not be filed.

Page 8 | F. ELECTRONICALLY TRANSMITTED COURT DOCUMENTS

Citations and writs bearing the court’s official seal may not be transmitted electronically.

11. Seals. No citation or writ bearing the official seal of the court may be transmitted electronically.

Page 9 | Seals

Self-represented litigants may e-file or file documents directly with the clerk’s office.

Self-represented litigants may use electronic filing or file documents directly with the clerk’s office.

Page 9 | H. E-FILING OF COURT DOCUMENTS

Self-represented litigants may file electronically or directly with the clerk’s office.

Self-represented litigants may use electronic filing or file documents directly with the clerk’s office.

Page 9 | H. E-FILING OF COURT DOCUMENTS

A written vacation designation must be filed with the Clerk and copied to all Court Administrators at least 90 days before the vacation, subject to the stated Lead Counsel limitation unless the Court expands coverage.

Any attorney may designate not more than four weeks during the year as vacation, during which time the attorney will not be assigned to trial or required to engage in any pre-trial proceedings. The written designation must be filed with the Clerk with a copy to all Court Administrators no less than ninety (90) days in advance of the vacation. This rule operates only where Lead Counsel, as defined by T.RC.P. 8, is affected, unless the Court expands coverage to other counsel.

Page 8 | F. VACATION OF COUNSEL

Unless the court orders otherwise, decisions or settlements must be written and provided to the court for signature within 30 days after the order is rendered or settlement is announced.

Unless ordered otherwise, within thirty (30) days after rendition of an order or an announced settlement by the parties, the decisions or settlements shall be reduced to writing and be provided to the court for signature.

Page 9 | I. SUBMISSION OF ORDERS AND SETTLEMENT DOCUMENTS

A Jane Doe application may be filed with either clerk; the County Clerk must accept an application it receives and immediately transfer it to the District Clerk.

A “Jane Doe case" application may be filed with either the District Clerk or the County Clerk, but if an application is received by the County Clerk, the County Clerk shall accept it and shall immediately transfer the application to the District Clerk.

Page 12 | 1. DISTRICT CLERK DESIGNATED

The District Clerk must notify the applicant of the hearing’s time and place no later than the fifth business day after filing, unless the applicant files for postponement.

The District Clerk shall notify the “Jane Doe" applicant of the time and place of the hearing on the application, which shall be no later than the fifth business day after the day the application is filed, unless an application for postponement is filed by the applicant.

Page 12 | 4. NOTIFICATION OF THE HEARING

The itemized order must be submitted no later than ten days after the final ruling.

Not later than ten days after the date of the final ruling, the attorney and guardian ad litem shall submit an itemized order for the Court’s consideration, seeking reasonable and necessary fees and expenses incurred.

Page 13 | 5. FEES AND COSTS

In a non-family civil case, the parties must submit an agreed docket control order within 120 days after the last defendant served answers.

Within 120 days after the answer date of the last defendant served in a non-family civil case, the parties shall submit an agreed docket control order.

Page 23 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 2. SCHEDULING

The suggestion of bankruptcy must be filed promptly after the party files for bankruptcy protection.

Whenever any party of litigation files for protection under the bankruptcy laws of the United States, it shall be the responsibility of that party and the party's counsel to promptly file a suggestion of bankruptcy with the appropriate clerk’s office

Page 24 | D. BANKRUPTCY FILINGS

A client wishing to object to an attorney’s withdrawal must make the objection in writing to the Court within ten days after the required letter is mailed.

The letter required under TRCP shall be sent to the client advising that the client has ten (10) days after the date of the mailing of the letter to make any objection to such withdrawal to the Court, in writing, and that if not done and no objection raised, the motion shall be granted.

Page 24 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 6. WITHDRAWAL

Notice of the conclusion of bankruptcy must be filed promptly after the bankruptcy concludes.

Once a bankruptcy has been concluded, the party or the party’s counsel and shall promptly file with the appropriate clerk notice of conclusion of the bankruptcy.

Page 24 | D. BANKRUPTCY FILINGS

A withdrawal motion may not be presented within 30 days of trial or at a time that would require delaying trial.

No such motion shall be presented within thirty (30) days of the trial date or at a time which would require a delay of the trial.

Page 24 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 6. WITHDRAWAL

The discovery checklist must be filed with the Court upon completion of discovery.

To encourage the expeditious disposal of cases, to promote judicial economy, and without the diluting the rights of Defendants and in the interest of justice, the District Attorney's office will provide a check list of discovery material provided to the defense attorney and the list will be filed with the Court upon completion of discovery.

Page 27 | IV. CRIMINAL COURT RULES - DISTRICT COURT

Pre-trial motions must be filed at least seven days before the pre-trial hearing.

All pre-trial motions must be filed at least seven (7) days before the date of the pre-trial hearing.

Page 31 | V. CRIMINAL COURT RULES - COUNTY COURTS AT LAW

Rule 166a(i) motions may not be set before the date specified in the order.

Rule 166a(i) motions may not be set before this date.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Motions to exclude testimony and expert-testimony evidentiary challenges must be filed by the specified date unless the court extends the deadline.

All motions to exclude testimony and evidentiary challenges to expert testimony must be filed by this date, unless extended by leave of court.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

All parties must submit the filings required under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 166 by the specified date.

By this date, all parties must submit all filings required under Rule 166 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Dispositive motions or pleas subject to interlocutory appeal must be set by the date specified in the order.

Dispositive motions or pleas subject to an interlocutory appeal must be set by this date.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Amendments and supplements must be filed by the specified date, but the order does not preclude prompt responsive pleadings to timely filed pleadings.

All amendments and supplements must be filed by this date. This order does not preclude prompt filing of pleadings directly responsive to any timely filed pleadings.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Summary judgment motions not subject to interlocutory appeal must be set by the date specified in the order.

Summary Judgment motions not subject to an interlocutory appeal must be set by this date.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

File the vacation designation at least 90 days before the vacation.

The written designation must be filed with the Clerk with a copy to all Court Administrators no less than ninety (90) days in advance of the vacation.

Page 8 | F. VACATION OF COUNSEL

Unless the court orders otherwise, decisions or settlements must be put in writing and provided for signature within 30 days after the order is rendered or settlement announced.

Unless ordered otherwise, within thirty (30) days after rendition of an order or an announced settlement by the parties, the decisions or settlements shall be reduced to writing and be provided to the court for signature.

Page 9 | I. SUBMISSION OF ORDERS AND SETTLEMENT DOCUMENTS

The itemized order must be submitted within ten days after the date of the final ruling.

Not later than ten days after the date of the final ruling, the attorney and guardian ad litem shall submit an itemized order for the Court’s consideration, seeking reasonable and necessary fees and expenses incurred.

Page 13 | 5. FEES AND COSTS

Within 120 days after the answer date of the last defendant served in a non-family civil case, the parties shall submit an agreed docket control order. If an agreement cannot be reached, counsel for Plaintiff shall set a hearing for entry of a docket control order.

Within 120 days after the answer date of the last defendant served in a non-family civil case, the parties shall submit an agreed docket control order. If an agreement cannot be reached, counsel for Plaintiff shall set a hearing for entry of a docket control order.

Page 23 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 2. SCHEDULING

The client must make any objection to the withdrawal in writing within 10 days after the letter is mailed.

The letter required under TRCP shall be sent to the client advising that the client has ten (10) days after the date of the mailing of the letter to make any objection to such withdrawal to the Court, in writing, and that if not done and no objection raised, the motion shall be granted.

Page 24 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 6. WITHDRAWAL

After the bankruptcy concludes, the party or counsel must promptly file a notice of conclusion with the appropriate clerk.

Once a bankruptcy has been concluded, the party or the party’s counsel and shall promptly file with the appropriate clerk notice of conclusion of the bankruptcy.

Page 24 | D. BANKRUPTCY FILINGS

When a party files for bankruptcy protection, that party and counsel must promptly file a suggestion of bankruptcy with the appropriate clerk’s office.

Whenever any party of litigation files for protection under the bankruptcy laws of the United States, it shall be the responsibility of that party and the party's counsel to promptly file a suggestion of bankruptcy with the appropriate clerk’s office

Page 24 | D. BANKRUPTCY FILINGS

Written notice that bankruptcy has occurred must be provided to the affected court and all counsel within three days of the bankruptcy filing.

within three (3) days of any bankruptcy filing, to provide written notice to the affected court and all counsel that a bankruptcy has occurred.

Page 24 | D. BANKRUPTCY FILINGS

A motion to withdraw may not be presented within 30 days of trial or at a time that would require delaying trial.

No such motion shall be presented within thirty (30) days of the trial date or at a time which would require a delay of the trial.

Page 24 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 6. WITHDRAWAL

The discovery checklist must be filed with the Court upon completion of discovery.

To encourage the expeditious disposal of cases, to promote judicial economy, and without the diluting the rights of Defendants and in the interest of justice, the District Attorney's office will provide a check list of discovery material provided to the defense attorney and the list will be filed with the Court upon completion of discovery.

Page 27 | IV. Criminal Court Rules - District Court, G. Discovery

When a presentence investigative report is requested or ordered in a case where the defendant is to be placed on probation, a probation intake interview must be scheduled with the department before sentencing unless the Court permits otherwise.

In cases where a defendant is to be placed on probation and has requested a pre-sentence investigative report or the trial court ordered a pre-sentence investigative report, a probation intake interview shall be scheduled with the Williamson County Community Supervision Department on a day prior to the date set for sentencing unless otherwise permitted by the Court.

Page 31 | V. Criminal Court Rules - County Courts at Law

Pre-trial motions must be filed at least seven days before the pre-trial hearing.

All pre-trial motions must be filed at least seven (7) days before the date of the pre-trial hearing.

Page 31 | V. Criminal Court Rules - County Courts at Law

Pre-trial hearings must be held at least five days before the jury trial.

All pre-trials shall be held at least five (5) days prior to jury trial.

Page 31 | V. Criminal Court Rules - County Courts at Law

Rule 166a(i) motions may not be set before the specified date.

Rule 166a(i) motions may not be set before this date.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

All parties must submit all filings required under Rule 166 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure by the specified date.

By this date, all parties must submit all filings required under Rule 166 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Dispositive motions or pleas subject to an interlocutory appeal must be set by the specified date.

Dispositive motions or pleas subject to an interlocutory appeal must be set by this date.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Summary judgment motions not subject to an interlocutory appeal must be set by the specified date.

Summary Judgment motions not subject to an interlocutory appeal must be set by this date.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Amendments and supplements must be filed by the specified date, but prompt filing of pleadings directly responsive to timely filed pleadings is not precluded.

All amendments and supplements must be filed by this date. This order does not preclude prompt filing of pleadings directly responsive to any timely filed pleadings.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Motions to exclude testimony and evidentiary challenges to expert testimony must be filed by the specified date unless the court grants leave to extend it.

All motions to exclude testimony and evidentiary challenges to expert testimony must be filed by this date, unless extended by leave of court.

Page 53 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

The vacation designation must be filed at least 90 days in advance, and this rule applies to lead Counsel unless the Court expands it to other Counsel.

The written designation must be filed with the Clerk with a copy to all Court Coordinators no less than ninety (90) days in advance of the vacation. This rule operates only where lead Counsel, as defined by T.RC.P. 8, is affected, unless the Court expands coverage to other Counsel.

Page 7 | E. VACATION OF COUNSEL

An accepted electronically transmitted document is recognized as the original record for filing or evidentiary purposes when it bears the Clerk's official date-and-time file stamp.

An electronically transmitted document accepted for filing will be recognized as the original record of file or for evidentiary purposes when it bears the Clerk's official date and time file stamp.

Page 8 | F. ELECTRONICALLY TRANSMITTED COURT DOCUMENTS

Electronic transmission does not itself constitute filing; filing is complete when the Clerk’s official date-and-time file stamp is affixed, while the last page’s receipt imprint determines receipt time only.

12. Filing. Electronic transmission of a document does not constitute filing. Filing is complete when the Clerk's official date and time file stamp is affixed to the document. Each page of any document received by the Clerk will be automatically imprinted with the date and time of receipt. The date and time imprinted on the last page of a document will determine the time of receipt but not time of filing.

Page 9 | Filing

Accepted transmissions completed before 5:00 p.m. on a normal business day are filed that day; transmissions after 5:00 p.m. or on weekends or holidays are verified and filed before 10:00 a.m. on the first following business day, and senders must check for changes to normal business hours.

Transmissions completed during a normal business day before 5:00 p.m. and accepted for filing will be filed on the day of the receipt. Transmissions completed after 5:00 p.m., on weekends or holidays will be verified and filed before 10:00 a.m. on the first business day following receipt transmission. The sender is responsible for determining if there are any changes in normal business hours.

Page 9 | Filing

Each party must file the inventory within 50 days of the appearance date.

Within fifty days of appearance date, each party shall file with the District Clerk, a copy being furnished to the Judge, opposing Counsel and pro se parties, a sworn inventory and appraisement of all property (both separate and community) of the parties, including any property belonging to children of the parties.

Page 13 | D. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURES IN FAMILY LAW CASES — 1. Inventory and Appraisement

The written settlement-conference certification is due by 5:00 p.m. seven days before the date set.

Settlement Conference Certification. Before 5:00 p.m. on the date that is seven (7) days prior to the date set, the parties shall certify in writing to the Judge that a settlement conference has been held.

Page 14 | D. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURES IN FAMILY LAW CASES — 4. Settlement Conference Certification

The Proposed Support Decision and Information must be delivered by 5:00 p.m. seven days before the support trial.

Before 5:00 p.m. on the date that is seven days prior to the date set for a trial on the merits before a Judge to determine an amount of child or spousal support, each party shall deliver to the opposing party and to the Court Coordinator of the Court in which the case is filed a Proposed Support Decision and Information, fully completed and in the form attached to these Rules as Exhibit “B".

Page 14 | D. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURES IN FAMILY LAW CASES — 3. Proposed Support Decision and Information

The Proposed Disposition of Issues must be delivered by 5:00 p.m. seven days before the divorce trial.

Before 5:00 p.m. on the date that is seven (7) days prior to the date set for a trial on the merits for any divorce trial, each party shall deliver to the opposing party and to the Court Coordinator of the Court in which the case is filed a Proposed Disposition of Issues, fully completed and in the form attached as Exhibit "A" to these Rules.

Page 14 | D. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURES IN FAMILY LAW CASES — 2. Proposed Disposition of Issues

A Jane Doe case application may be filed with either clerk; the County Clerk must accept an application it receives and immediately transfer it to the District Clerk.

A “Jane Doe case" application may be filed with either the District Clerk or the County Clerk, but if an application is received by the County Clerk, the County Clerk shall accept it and shall immediately transfer the application to the District Clerk.

Page 16 | F. JUDICIAL BYPASS OF PARENTAL NOTIFICATION (“JANE DOE” CASES)

A written motion to remove a case from the dismissal docket must be presented to the Judge before the notified dismissal date.

Written motions to remove a case from the dismissal docket must be presented to the Judge prior to the notified date of dismissal.

Page 16 | E. DISMISSAL DOCKET; INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL

The plaintiff must designate expert witnesses within 120 days after the answer is filed.

Plaintiff’s expert witnesses to be designated within 120 days from the date answer is filed.

Page 20 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE

Additional parties must be joined within 90 days after the answer is filed.

Any additional parties to be joined within 90 days from the date answer is filed.

Page 20 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE

A settlement conference with both parties present must be held within 250 days after the answer.

A settlement conference must be held with the two parties present within 250 days from the date of answer.

Page 20 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE

Discovery must be completed within 180 days after the answer is filed.

Discovery shall be completed within 180 days from the date answer is filed.

Page 20 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE

The defendant must designate expert witnesses within 150 days after the answer is filed.

Defendant's expert witnesses shall be designated within 150 days from the date answer is filed.

Page 20 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE

Before presenting a TRO or other request for relief, an attorney must notify represented opposing counsel and provide copies of the pleadings and proposed orders.

Before presenting a TRO or any request for relief, the attorney must notify and provide a copy of the pleadings and proposed orders to the opposing attorney, if respondent is represented.

Page 7 | 3. NOTICE

Notice of a dismissal docket setting must be transmitted to every attorney of record and every unrepresented party.

Notice of the Dismissal Docket setting shall be transmitted to each attorney of record and to each party not represented by counsel.

Page 10 | K. DISMISSAL FOR WANT OF PROSECUTION

The party or attorney setting the case must give notice to opposing counsel according to the Rules of Civil Procedure.

The party or attorney setting the case shall give notice to Opposing Counsel according to the Rules of Civil Procedure.

Page 11 | 3. MOTIONS TO RETAIN

The party requesting a setting must notify the opposing party in accordance with statutory time requirements.

The self-represented litigant or attorney requesting the setting shall notify the opposing party of the setting consistent with the statutory time requirements.

Page 15 | II. FAMILY COURT RULES; B. SETTING THE CASE; 1. ATTORNEY CONFERENCE

Each party must deliver the required pretrial forms and any amended pleadings to the opposing party at least one day before the family-case hearing.

At least one day prior to the date set for a hearing of a family case, each party shall deliver to the opposing party the following pre-trial forms and any amended pleadings.

Page 18 | D. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURES IN FAMILY LAW CASES — 2. FORMS TO BE PREPARED BEFORE HEARING

Notice to the client must be sent by both certified and regular mail.

Notice to the client shall be by certified and regular mail.

Page 24 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 6. WITHDRAWAL

Written notice that a bankruptcy occurred must be provided to the affected court and all counsel within three days of the bankruptcy filing.

and within three (3) days of any bankruptcy filing, to provide written notice to the affected court and all counsel that a bankruptcy has occurred.

Page 24 | D. BANKRUPTCY FILINGS

A copy of the withdrawal motion must be delivered or mailed to opposing counsel.

A copy of the motion shall be delivered or mailed to opposing counsel.

Page 24 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 6. WITHDRAWAL

Notice of a motion to withdraw or substitute counsel must be delivered to the State when the motion is set.

Notice of such motions shall be delivered to the State when the motion is set.

Page 27 | IV. CRIMINAL COURT RULES - DISTRICT COURT

Upon employment, defense counsel must give written notice to the District Attorney, District Clerk, and Court Administrator in the court where the case is filed.

Upon employment, the defense attorney shall give written notice thereof to the District Attorney, the District Clerk and the Court Administrator in the Court in which the case is filed.

Page 27 | IV. CRIMINAL COURT RULES - DISTRICT COURT

Defense attorneys must subpoena all witnesses and law enforcement officers necessary for pre-trial hearings.

Defense attorneys shall subpoena all witnesses, including the State’s witnesses, and law enforcement officers necessary for pre-trial hearings.

Page 31 | V. CRIMINAL COURT RULES - COUNTY COURTS AT LAW

Expert witness designations must be served by the dates specified in the docket control order.

Expert witness designations are required and must be served by the following dates.

Page 52 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

All parties must be added and served by the date specified in the docket control order.

All parties must be added and served, whether by amendment or third-party practice, by this date.

Page 52 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

The party causing joinder must provide a copy of the scheduling order when service occurs.

THE PARTY CAUSING THE JOINDER SHALL PROVIDE A COPY OF THIS SCHEDULING ORDER AT THE TIME OF SERVICE.

Page 52 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Discovery requests must be served far enough before the discovery period ends for the response deadline to fall within that period.

Parties seeking discovery must serve requests sufficiently far in advance of the end of the discovery period that the deadline for responding will be within the discovery period.

Page 52 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Before presenting a TRO or other request for relief, an attorney must notify the opposing attorney and provide copies of the pleadings and proposed orders if the respondent is represented.

Before presenting a TRO or any request for relief, the attorney must notify and provide a copy of the pleadings and proposed orders to the opposing attorney, if respondent is represented.

Page 7 | 3. NOTICE

Provide a copy of the written vacation designation to all Court Administrators.

The written designation must be filed with the Clerk with a copy to all Court Administrators no less than ninety (90) days in advance of the vacation.

Page 8 | F. VACATION OF COUNSEL

The party or attorney who sets the case must give notice to opposing counsel under the Rules of Civil Procedure.

The party or attorney setting the case shall give notice to Opposing Counsel according to the Rules of Civil Procedure.

Page 11 | 3. MOTIONS TO RETAIN

The self-represented litigant or attorney who requests a setting must notify the opposing party in accordance with statutory time requirements.

The self-represented litigant or attorney requesting the setting shall notify the opposing party of the setting consistent with the statutory time requirements.

Page 15 | II. FAMILY COURT RULES, B. SETTING THE CASE, 1. ATTORNEY CONFERENCE

Each party must deliver the required pretrial forms and any amended pleadings to the opposing party at least one day before a family-case hearing.

At least one day prior to the date set for a hearing of a family case, each party shall deliver to the opposing party the following pre-trial forms and any amended pleadings.

Page 18 | D. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURES IN FAMILY LAW CASES — 2. FORMS TO BE PREPARED BEFORE HEARING

Notice to the client must be sent by both certified and regular mail.

Notice to the client shall be by certified and regular mail.

Page 24 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 6. WITHDRAWAL

The required written bankruptcy notice must be provided to the affected court and all counsel.

within three (3) days of any bankruptcy filing, to provide written notice to the affected court and all counsel that a bankruptcy has occurred.

Page 24 | D. BANKRUPTCY FILINGS

A copy of the motion to withdraw must be delivered or mailed to opposing counsel.

A copy of the motion shall be delivered or mailed to opposing counsel.

Page 24 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 6. WITHDRAWAL

Notice of a motion to withdraw or substitute counsel must be delivered to the State when the motion is set.

Notice of such motions shall be delivered to the State when the motion is set.

Page 27 | IV. Criminal Court Rules - District Court, D. Withdrawal/Substitution of Counsel

Upon being retained, defense counsel must give written notice to the District Attorney, District Clerk, and Court Administrator for the court where the case is filed.

Upon employment, the defense attorney shall give written notice thereof to the District Attorney, the District Clerk and the Court Administrator in the Court in which the case is filed.

Page 27 | IV. Criminal Court Rules - District Court, e. Notice in Retained Cases

Upon employment, defense counsel must notify the County Attorney, County Clerk, and Court Administrator in the court where the case is filed.

Upon employment, the defense attorney shall give notice thereof to the County Attorney, to the County Clerk and the Court Administrator in the Court in which the case is filed.

Page 30 | B. Attorney of Record — d. Notice to Court and County Attorney

Defense attorneys must subpoena all witnesses and law-enforcement officers necessary for pre-trial hearings.

Defense attorneys shall subpoena all witnesses, including the State’s witnesses, and law enforcement officers necessary for pre-trial hearings.

Page 31 | V. Criminal Court Rules - County Courts at Law

Parties seeking discovery must serve requests early enough for the response deadline to fall within the discovery period.

Parties seeking discovery must serve requests sufficiently far in advance of the end of the discovery period that the deadline for responding will be within the discovery period.

Page 52 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

All parties must be added and served by the date specified in the docket control order.

All parties must be added and served, whether by amendment or third-party practice, by this date.

Page 52 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

The party causing joinder must provide a copy of the scheduling order when serving the joinder.

THE PARTY CAUSING THE JOINDER SHALL PROVIDE A COPY OF THIS SCHEDULING ORDER AT THE TIME OF SERVICE.

Page 52 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Expert witness designations for both parties seeking affirmative relief and all other experts must be served by the dates specified in the order.

2. EXPERT WITNESS DESIGNATION. Expert witness designations are required and must be served by the following dates. The designation must include the information listed in Rule 194.2(f). Failure to timely respond will be governed by Rule 193.6. (a) Experts for parties seeking affirmative relief. (b) All other experts.

Page 52 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

Before presenting a TRO or other petition for extraordinary relief, the plaintiff’s or movant’s attorney must notify known opposing counsel and give them an opportunity to appear.

Before presenting a TRO or any petition for extraordinary relief, the Attorney representing the Defendant or Respondent, if known, must be notified by the Plaintiff’s or Movant's Attorney and given the opportunity to appear with Plaintiffs or Movant's Attorney.

Page 6 | TRO'S, WRITS OF ATTACHMENT, WRITS OF GARNISHMENT, WRITS OF SEQUESTRATION

A copy of the filed inventory must be furnished to the Judge, opposing counsel, and pro se parties.

Within fifty days of appearance date, each party shall file with the District Clerk, a copy being furnished to the Judge, opposing Counsel and pro se parties, a sworn inventory and appraisement of all property (both separate and community) of the parties, including any property belonging to children of the parties.

Page 13 | D. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURES IN FAMILY LAW CASES — 1. Inventory and Appraisement

When a motion to remove a case from the dismissal docket is granted, the party or attorney setting the trial must notify opposing counsel according to the Rules of Civil Procedure.

Where motions to remove a case from dismissal docket are granted, the case shall be set for trial. The party or Attorney setting the case shall give notice to opposing Counsel according to the Rules of Civil Procedure.

Page 16 | E. DISMISSAL DOCKET; INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL

In each non-family civil case, the plaintiff must serve the pre-trial scheduling rules with the petition; the Clerk provides the rules at filing.

At the time of filing in each non-family civil case, the Clerk will provide the plaintiff a copy of the following rules relating to pre-trial scheduling to be served with the petition.

Page 20 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE

Notice of a motion to withdraw or substitute counsel must be delivered to the State when the motion is set.

Notice of such motions shall be delivered to the State when the motion is set.

Page 25 | Withdrawal of Counsel

Notice of a motion to withdraw or substitute counsel must be delivered to the State when the motion is set.

Notice of such motions shall be delivered to the State when the motion is set

Page 29 | County Court at Law Criminal Rules

Notice of a dismissal docket setting must be transmitted to every attorney of record and every unrepresented party.

Notice of the Dismissal Docket setting shall be transmitted to each attorney of record and to each party not represented by counsel.

Page 10 | K. DISMISSAL FOR WANT OF PROSECUTION

Court costs and fees must be paid by a Clerk-authorized method before an electronically transmitted document will be accepted for filing.

No documents electronically transmitted shall be accepted by the Clerk for filing until court costs and fees have been paid. Court costs and fees shall be paid by a payment method authorized by the Clerk.

Page 7 | F. ELECTRONICALLY TRANSMITTED COURT DOCUMENTS

The proper jury fee must be paid before a jury trial is set.

No setting for jury trial will be given until the proper jury fee has been paid.

Page 11 | B. SETTING THE CASE.

The Clerk must adopt an electronic-filing fee schedule annually, subject to approval by the District Judges.

A fee schedule for electronic filing shall be adopted annually by the Clerk and approved by the District Judges.

Page 8 | F. ELECTRONICALLY TRANSMITTED COURT DOCUMENTS

This Order does not itself authorize sealing; the Court will determine whether good cause supports filing Plaintiff’s protected health information under seal.

This Order does not authorize either party to seal court filings or court proceedings. The Court will make a good cause determination for filing under seal if the parties seek to file Plaintiff’s protected health information under seal.

Page 35 | Exhibit B – Qualified Protective Order for Protected Health Information

All parties in Chapter 33 proceedings must comply with the requirements protecting the identity of the minor involved.

All parties participating in any proceeding under Chapter 33 of the Texas Family Code shall strictly adhere to the requirements contained therein, specifically the requirements to protect the identity of the minor involved in said proceedings.

Page 13 | 6. COMPLIANCE WITH REQUIREMENTS OF CHAPTER 33 OF THE TEXAS FAMILY CODE AND THE TEXAS SUPREME COURT’S RULES

This order does not itself permit sealing; the Court will determine whether good cause supports filing Plaintiff’s protected health information under seal.

This Order does not authorize either party to seal court filings or court proceedings. The Court will make a good cause determination for filing under seal if the parties seek to file Plaintiff’s protected health information under seal.

Page 35 | Exhibit B – Qualified Protective Order for Protected H ealth Information

Before setting a case, counsel and self-represented litigants must confer in an attempt to agree on a setting; after conferring, the requesting party may set the hearing or trial, and an opponent’s failure to respond does not prevent obtaining a setting.

Prior to setting a case, counsel and any self-represented litigants must confer in an attempt for an agreed upon setting. After conferring, the requesting party may set a hearing/trial. The self- represented litigant or attorney requesting the setting shall notify the opposing party of the setting consistent with the statutory time requirements. Failing to respond to the request for an agreed date does not preclude obtaining a setting.

Page 15 | II. FAMILY COURT RULES; B. SETTING THE CASE; 1. ATTORNEY CONFERENCE

Before a pre-trial matter is set for hearing, the moving party must communicate with opposing counsel; the requirement does not apply when no opposing attorney has appeared or to the listed exempt matters.

No pre-trial matter will be set for hearing unless the moving party has first communicated with Opposing Counsel to determine whether a contemplated motion will be opposed. If the motion will not be opposed, the moving party shall submit a proposed order signed by Counsel for all parties affected by the order agreeing to the order as to form and substance. If the motion will be opposed, the moving party shall include at the end of his pleading one of the following certificates: i. “A conference was held on (date) with (name), attorney for opposing party, on the substance of this motion. We are not able to agree; therefore, the matter is presented to the Court for determination," or ii. “I was unable to reach Opposing Counsel, (name), to confer about the merits of this matter, after the following attempts: (briefly state the dates and nature of the unsuccessful attempts to contact Opposing Counsel),” or iii. In multi-party cases, "Before setting this matter for hearing, I attempted to resolve this dispute by sending the attached letter to all counsel of record.” The Court Administrator will not set any pre-trial matter for hearing unless it is accompanied by one of the foregoing certificates. This rule does not apply to cases in which no opposing attorney has entered an appearance, or to matters involving family violence, habeas corpus, attachment, contempt of court, or Temporary Restraining Order (TRO).

Page 16 | II. FAMILY COURT RULES; B. SETTING THE CASE; 3. ATTEMPT TO CONFER

Before a pre-trial matter is set for hearing, the moving party must communicate with opposing counsel to determine whether the contemplated motion or special exception will be opposed.

No pre-trial matter will be set for hearing unless the moving party has first communicated with Opposing Counsel to determine whether a contemplated motion or special exception will be opposed.

Page 22 | III. CIVIL COURT RULES, B. SETTING THE CASE, 3. ATTEMPT TO CONFER

Pre-trial motions may not be heard on the jury-trial date, except for motions in limine and motions designated by the trial court.

No pre-trial motions shall be heard on the date of the jury trial, except motions in limine, and those designated by the trial court.

Page 31 | V. CRIMINAL COURT RULES - COUNTY COURTS AT LAW

Before setting a case, counsel and self-represented litigants must confer in an attempt to agree on a setting; after conferring, the requesting party may set the hearing or trial, and a failure to respond does not bar the setting.

Prior to setting a case, counsel and any self-represented litigants must confer in an attempt for an agreed upon setting. After conferring, the requesting party may set a hearing/trial. Failing to respond to the request for an agreed date does not preclude obtaining a setting.

Page 15 | II. FAMILY COURT RULES, B. SETTING THE CASE, 1. ATTORNEY CONFERENCE

Before a pre-trial matter is set, the moving party must confer with opposing counsel to determine whether the motion is opposed; the rule also specifies the required order or certificate and exceptions.

No pre-trial matter will be set for hearing unless the moving party has first communicated with Opposing Counsel to determine whether a contemplated motion will be opposed. If the motion will not be opposed, the moving party shall submit a proposed order signed by Counsel for all parties affected by the order agreeing to the order as to form and substance. If the motion will be opposed, the moving party shall include at the end of his pleading one of the following certificates: i. “A conference was held on (date) with (name), attorney for opposing party, on the substance of this motion. We are not able to agree; therefore, the matter is presented to the Court for determination," or ii. “I was unable to reach Opposing Counsel, (name), to confer about the merits of this matter, after the following attempts: (briefly state the dates and nature of the unsuccessful attempts to contact Opposing Counsel),” or iii. In multi-party cases, "Before setting this matter for hearing, I attempted to resolve this dispute by sending the attached letter to all counsel of record." The Court Administrator will not set any pre-trial matter for hearing unless it is accompanied by one of the foregoing certificates. This rule does not apply to cases in which no opposing attorney has entered an appearance, or to matters involving family violence, habeas corpus, attachment, contempt of court, or Temporary Restraining Order (TRO).

Page 16 | II. FAMILY COURT RULES, B. SETTING THE CASE, 3. ATTEMPT TO CONFER

Before a pre-trial matter is set for hearing, the moving party must communicate with opposing counsel to determine whether the contemplated motion or special exception will be opposed.

No pre-trial matter will be set for hearing unless the moving party has first communicated with Opposing Counsel to determine whether a contemplated motion or special exception will be opposed.

Page 19 | B. SETTING THE CASE

Before a pre-trial matter is set for hearing, the moving party must confer with opposing counsel about whether the contemplated motion or special exception is opposed, except in the listed circumstances.

No pre-trial matter will be set for hearing unless the moving party has first communicated with opposing Counsel to determine whether a contemplated motion or special exception will not be opposed. This rule does not apply to cases in which no opposing Attorney has entered an appearance, or to matters involving family violence, habeas corpus, attachment, contempt of court, or temporary orders.

Page 11 | B. SETTING THE CASE. 5. Attempt to Confer.

Before a pre-trial matter is set for hearing, the moving party must communicate with opposing counsel to determine whether the contemplated motion or special exception will be opposed.

No pre-trial matter will be set for hearing unless the moving party has first communicated with opposing Counsel to determine whether a contemplated motion or special exception will be opposed.

Page 19 | B. SETTING THE CASE

Pre-trial motions may not be heard on the jury-trial date, except motions in limine and those designated by the trial court.

No pre-trial motions shall be heard on the date of the jury trial, except motions in limine, and those designated by the trial court.

Page 31 | V. Criminal Court Rules - County Courts at Law

The pre-trial meet-and-confer and certificate rule does not apply when no opposing attorney has appeared or to the listed matters.

This rule does not apply to cases in which no opposing Attorney has entered an appearance, or to matters involving family violence, habeas corpus, attachment, contempt of court, or temporary orders.

Page 20 | B. SETTING THE CASE

A final hearing setting at the dismissal docket may be changed only if a formal motion for continuance is granted under the Rules of Civil Procedure.

If, at the calling of the dismissal docket, a case is set for final hearing, that final hearing setting SHALL NOT be changed except upon the granting of a formal motion for continuance pursuant to the Rules of Civil Procedure.

Page 11 | 3. MOTIONS TO RETAIN

A final hearing setting made at the dismissal docket may be changed only if a formal motion for continuance is granted under the Rules of Civil Procedure.

If, at the calling of the dismissal docket, a case is set for final hearing, that final hearing setting SHALL NOT be changed except upon the granting of a formal motion for continuance pursuant to the Rules of Civil Procedure.

Page 11 | 3. MOTIONS TO RETAIN

Counsel may conduct discovery beyond the discovery-period deadline by agreement.

Counsel may conduct discovery beyond this deadline by agreement.

Page 52 | Exhibit G – Docket Control Order

A Court Coordinator may not extend the deadline for delivering pre-trial forms.

A Court Coordinator is not authorized to extend the time for delivering pre-trial forms.

Page 15 | Extension

Recording or broadcasting court proceedings requires express court permission, which must be requested in writing from the Court Administrator.

Consistent with a Judge’s inherent power to control proceedings in order to maintain the dignity, decorum, and impartiality of the judicial process, no photographs, video recordings, audio recordings, live streaming, ‘tweeting’, or broadcasting of any nature is allowed without express permission from the court. A person or media entity wishing to televise, record, photograph, livestream, ‘live-tweet’ or otherwise broadcast a court proceeding must make such a request in writing to the Court Administrator.

Page 5 | 4. PHOTOGRAPHS, RECORDINGS, AND BROADCASTING OF COURT PROCEEDINGS

An attorney must present a request for extraordinary relief to the assigned judge; if that judge is unavailable, the court administrator arranges consideration by another judge.

Cases requesting extraordinary relief shall be presented by the attorney to the assigned judge. If the assigned judge is unavailable, the court administrator shall make arrangements with another judge to consider the requested relief.

Page 6 | C. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS, WRITS OF ATTACHMENT, WRITS OF GARNISHMENT, WRITS OF SEQUESTRATION — 1. PRESENTATION

Requests to set a matter for hearing must be made through the court administrator for the court where the case is pending.

All requests for settings shall be done through the court administrator for the court in which the case is pending.

Page 7 | D. SETTING A CASE FOR HEARING

Before approaching a judge in a court where the case is not filed about a regular TRO, counsel must contact the Court Administrator in the original court.

Before approaching a judge with a regular TRO in a court in which the case is not filed, you must contact the Court Administrator in the Court in which the case was filed.

Page 7 | 4. MUST CONTACT ORIGINAL COURT OF FILING

An attorney must call the affected judges' attention to all dual settings as soon as the attorney knows of them.

It is the duty of the attorney to call the affected Judges attention to all dual settings as soon as they are known.

Page 8 | G. CONFLICTING ENGAGEMENTS

The movant must notify the District Clerk and the affected court’s Court Administrator that the specified motion to modify has been filed.

Movant shall notify the District Clerk and the Court Administrator of the affected court that the Motion to Modify Conservatorship Pursuant to TFC Sec. 156.006(b)(1) has been filed.

Page 16 | II. FAMILY COURT RULES; B. SETTING THE CASE; 4. TEMPORARY ORDERS PURSUANT TO TEXAS FAMILY CODE SEC. 156.006(B)(1)

If the parties cannot agree on a docket control order, plaintiff’s counsel must set a hearing for its entry.

If an agreement cannot be reached, counsel for Plaintiff shall set a hearing for entry of a docket control order.

Page 23 | C. PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURE — 2. SCHEDULING

Upon being employed, defense counsel must notify the County Attorney, County Clerk, and Court Administrator in the court where the case is filed.

Upon employment, the defense attorney shall give notice thereof to the County Attorney, to the County Clerk and the Court Administrator in the Court in which the case is filed.

Page 30 | V. CRIMINAL COURT RULES - COUNTY COURTS AT LAW; B. ATTORNEY OF RECORD; d. Notice to Court and County Attorney

Make all requests for hearing settings through the court administrator for the court where the case is pending.

All requests for settings shall be done through the court administrator for the court in which the case is pending.

Page 7 | D. SETTING A CASE FOR HEARING

Before approaching a judge in a court where the case is not filed about a regular TRO, contact the Court Administrator in the court where the case was filed.

Before approaching a judge with a regular TRO in a court in which the case is not filed, you must contact the Court Administrator in the Court in which the case was filed.

Page 7 | 4. MUST CONTACT ORIGINAL COURT OF FILING

For an approved telephone hearing, the attorney who requested the conference must arrange the conference call.

If the Court has approved a telephone hearing, the attorney requesting the conference is responsible for arranging the telephone conference call.

Page 8 | E.3. ARRANGEMENTS

Make all arrangements for an approved telephone or virtual hearing in advance.

All arrangements must be made in advance.

Page 8 | E.3. ARRANGEMENTS

An attorney must call the affected judges' attention to all dual settings as soon as the attorney knows of them.

It is the duty of the attorney to call the affected Judges attention to all dual settings as soon as they are known.

Page 8 | G. CONFLICTING ENGAGEMENTS

The movant must notify the District Clerk and the affected court’s Court Administrator that the specified motion to modify has been filed.

Movant shall notify the District Clerk and the Court Administrator of the affected court that the Motion to Modify Conservatorship Pursuant to TFC Sec. 156.006(b)(1) has been filed.

Page 16 | II. FAMILY COURT RULES, B. SETTING THE CASE, 4. TEMPORARY ORDERS PURSUANT TO TEXAS FAMILY CODE SEC. 156.006(B)(1)

Settings for non-jury matters and jury trials must be made through the court's Court Coordinator/Administrator.

All settings for non-jury matters and jury trials shall be done though the office of the Court Coordinator/Administrator for the court in which the case is pending.

Page 11 | B. SETTING THE CASE.

Requests for settings must not be directed to a judge.

No request for settings shall be directed toward any Judge.

Page 11 | B. SETTING THE CASE.

Before requesting a trial setting, attorneys must communicate with opposing counsel to try to agree on a date.

Attorneys shall communicate with opposing Counsel before requesting the setting of a trial in an effort to agree upon a setting date.

Page 19 | B. SETTING THE CASE

An attorney who sets a case without opposing counsel’s agreement must immediately notify opposing counsel under the Rules of Civil Procedure.

If the case is set without agreement of Counsel, the Attorney who set the case shall immediately notify opposing Counsel according to the Rules of Civil Procedure.

Page 19 | B. SETTING THE CASE

Non-jury and jury-trial settings must be arranged through the Court Coordinator’s office.

All settings for non-jury matters and jury trials shall be done through the office of the Court Coordinator for the Court in which the case is filed.

Page 19 | B. SETTING THE CASE

Attorneys must observe the ethical canons concerning media discussions and improper ex parte communications with the judge.

Attorneys shall observe the letter of all canons of ethics, including those dealing with discussion of cases with representatives of the media and those concerning improper ex parte communications with the judge;

Page 4 | I. GENERAL RULES — A. DECORUM — 2. CONDUCT OF ATTORNEYS

Should a conflict arise between matters set in two different courts, attorneys shall provide the court with contact information for any other court where there is a conflict that may need to be resolved.

Should a conflict arise between matters set in two different courts, attorneys shall provide the court with contact information for any other court where there is a conflict that may need to be resolved.

Page 9 | G

Motions to withdraw or substitute counsel are scheduled with the Court Administrator at the Court’s convenience.

Motions to Withdraw or Substitute Counsel are set with the Court Administrator at the convenience of the Court.

Page 27 | IV. CRIMINAL COURT RULES - DISTRICT COURT

Attorneys must observe ethical canons, including those governing improper ex parte communications with the judge.

Attorneys shall observe the letter of all canons of ethics, including those dealing with discussion of cases with representatives of the media and those concerning improper ex parte communications with the judge;

Page 4 | I. GENERAL RULES

Anyone seeking to televise, record, photograph, livestream, live-tweet, or otherwise broadcast a proceeding must request permission in writing from the Court Administrator.

A person or media entity wishing to televise, record, photograph, livestream, ‘live-tweet’ or otherwise broadcast a court proceeding must make such a request in writing to the Court Administrator.

Page 5 | PHOTOGRAPHS, RECORDINGS, AND BROADCASTING OF COURT PROCEEDINGS

Should a conflict arise between matters set in two different courts, attorneys shall provide the court with contact information for any other court where there is a conflict that may need to be resolved.

Should a conflict arise between matters set in two different courts, attorneys shall provide the court with contact information for any other court where there is a conflict that may need to be resolved.

Page 9 | General Rules

Attorneys should follow ethical canons concerning discussions of cases with the media and improper ex parte communications with the Judge.

Attorneys should observe the letter of all canons of ethic, including those dealing with discussion of cases with representatives of the media and those concerning improper ex parte communications with the Judge;

Page 4 | General Rules Applicable to All District Courts and County Courts at Law — Conduct of Attorneys

Attorneys should not approach the bench without leave of the court;

Attorneys should not approach the bench without leave of the court;

Page 4 | General Rules Applicable to All District Courts and County Courts at Law — Conduct of Attorneys

Motions to withdraw or substitute counsel must be scheduled with the Court Coordinator, subject to the Court’s convenience.

Motions to Withdraw or Substitute Counsel are set with the Court Coordinator at the convenience of the Court.

Page 29 | County Court at Law Criminal Rules

Attorneys should anticipate any need to move furniture, appliances, or easels and make advance arrangements with the bailiff.

Attorneys should anticipate any need to move furniture, appliances, or easels, and should make advance arrangements with the bailiff.

Page 5 | Courtroom Decorum

Either party may request a court reporter in advance, and the Court will provide one for the hearing.

A court reporter shall be provided by the Court for these hearings upon the request of either party in advance.

Page 8 | E.4. RECORD