Coming to Court

Court Security
Please note that you will pass through the court security check point. This includes searches of strollers, bags, purses, briefcases and any other personal items as required by security personnel. These security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all persons who enter the courtrooms.
Court Rules
Pursuant to the authority of Art. 45.203(b) of the Texas Code of Criminal Regulations
All Persons appearing for court must be present at the time specified by the Court or a failure to appear may be rendered on the late party. Court check-in begins 30 minutes prior to the time indicated on your notice.
No cellphones or recording devices.
No food, beverages, or gum.
No weapons, including knifes, mase, and tasers.
No loud talking.
All persons should dress appropriately. No hats, tank-tops or flip-flops.
Minimize items brought into court.

You have many rights as a defendant at a Municipal Court:

Under our American system of justice, all persons are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty.
The State must prove your guilty “beyond a reasonable doubt” of the offense with which you are charged.
Every criminal defendant has the right to remain silent and refuse to testify (without consequences).
You have the right to retain an attorney and have them try your case or answer your questions.
Since offenses in this court are punishable only by fine and not by incarceration, you do not have the right to appointed counsel.
You have the right to a jury trial. You may waive a jury trial and have a trial before the judge, commonly called a “bench trial.”
If you elect to represent yourself, no person other than an attorney can assist you during a trial.

Court Security