Travis County Court Docket: Criminal Search | ATX Legal
Travis County Criminal Docket Search
A criminal case in Travis County can be confusing. You might not know where or when to go to court, or you might be lacking basic case information. Your best resource is usually your criminal defense attorney. At ATX Legal, we give our clients plenty of notice for court settings, and inform them of changes in the court date ASAP. However, if you don’t have an attorney, or can’t access them, see below for some helpful resources online.
Court Settings in Travis County
If you have a current case, you can look it up in the Travis County Docket Search Application. Simply type in your name to get access to setting information. This service is limited to all County Courts-at-Law and District Courts in Travis County.
The presiding judge plays a crucial role in overseeing court settings and making decisions on case schedules. If you are showing up for a first appearance, you may need to simply check in with Court Administration, which is located in the first floor lobby of the court house.
It does NOT include information for Class C misdemeanors. Those will either be in a database for JP courts (link: here) or the Austin Municipal Court (link: here). Please note that the JP Docket search is problematic. You may need to search several times before it actually works to return a court date.
Online Docket Search
You can search for your criminal case online through the Travis County website. This will give you information on your next court date, the judge assigned to your case, and other important details. Users can also submit an online form to request additional information or assistance with their case.
The online docket search is an invaluable tool for anyone needing information about their court case in Travis County. This resource allows you to look up your case number, court date, and other pertinent details with ease. Accessible through the Travis County website, the online docket search can be used by anyone with an internet connection.
To utilize this service, simply enter your case number or name into the search field. The system will then provide you with comprehensive information about your case, including the court date, time, and location. This convenient feature eliminates the need to visit the courthouse in person, saving you time and effort while ensuring you stay informed about your court proceedings.
How to Interpret the Docket Search Information
The Docket Search will let you know which judge is presiding over the case, as well as the date, time, court, and floor where the person needs to appear. The setting type is listed as well. In the example above, the setting is JTR, which means it is a jury trial. Other abbreviations include PTR (pretrial), and UDS (unindicted docket). While the purpose of this search is intended to provide good information for defendants, these settings are flexible and can be changed by the court.
It is usually best to direct questions to your attorney and defer to their judgment. Also, it is always a good idea to check the docket immediately before heading to court, as these are sometimes reset on very short notice.
Where to Go for Court in Travis County
The docket search is an important resource for defendants and those visiting court, because it tells you which specific courts to go to, and when to go. But, in general, all cases which are Class B misdemeanor and above are in the Blackwell Thurman Justice Center. More info here.
Misdemeanor and Felony Records
Public records held by the County and District clerks are available for search in Travis County’s Odyssey Portal (here). Attorneys have access to download filed court documents from the portal, but the members of the public must contact the clerk if there is a specific document needed. Attorneys, including those affiliated with the State Bar of Texas, have access to download filed court documents from the portal.
Additional Resources
Forms, Instructions, and Guides
The Travis County court system offers a variety of forms, instructions, and guides to assist individuals in navigating the court process. These resources are readily available on the Travis County website and can be accessed by anyone.
The forms include essential documents such as petitions, motions, and responses. Detailed instructions accompany these forms, providing step-by-step guidance on how to complete and file them with the court. Additionally, the guides offer general information about the court process and practical tips for those representing themselves.
Some of the helpful resources available on the Travis County website include:
Petition for Divorce
Motion for Continuance
Response to Petition
Guide to Representing Yourself in Court
Instructions for Filing a Petition
These resources are designed to empower individuals by providing the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the court system effectively. Available in both English and Spanish, they ensure that everyone has access to the information they need to make informed decisions about their case.
Understanding the Court System
Navigating the court system in Travis County can be daunting, but understanding its structure can make the process smoother. The system is composed of various courts, each with its own jurisdiction and specific types of cases it handles. The Civil District Courts, for instance, deal with civil cases such as divorce, child custody, and property disputes. On the other hand, Family Courts focus on family law matters, including child support and adoption. Meanwhile, the Municipal Courts handle cases related to traffic violations, city ordinances, and other minor offenses.
Knowing which court your case falls under is crucial. It helps you understand your rights and responsibilities, and allows you to make informed decisions about your case. Whether you’re dealing with a civil matter, a family issue, or a minor offense, being familiar with the court system can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Contact a Criminal Lawyer for Your Case
If a criminal case has been filed against you, you should take action. You’ll feel better with an experienced criminal defense attorney at your side. ATX Legal has been handling criminal cases in Travis County for nearly a decade. We can guide you through the court process, answer all your questions, and fight to protect your rights. If you would like more information, or to set up a no-cost consultation, text 512-677-5003 or fill out a contact form.