Civil Courts

The civil courts in Harris County, Texas, play an essential role in the local legal system by providing a forum for resolving disputes in a fair and orderly manner. Whether you are involved in a lawsuit or need to navigate the civil court process, understanding how Harris County's civil courts function is crucial for effectively managing your case. This guide will provide you with comprehensive information about the various civil courts in Harris County, including their locations, procedures, and how to access important services.

Harris County Civil Courts Overview

Harris County, which includes Houston, the largest city in Texas, has four statutory County Civil Courts at Law. These courts handle civil cases where the disputed amount falls within certain financial limits, typically up to $250,000. The County Civil Courts focus on civil disputes such as contract issues, property disputes, personal injury claims, and more. These courts are distinct from criminal courts, focusing solely on non-criminal legal matters.

Each County Civil Court is equipped with its own judge, clerks, and staff to oversee cases. These courts operate under rules and procedures designed to ensure that justice is served while maintaining an efficient, organized system. Additionally, Harris County Civil Courts make use of modern technology, including electronic filing systems, to streamline processes for attorneys, plaintiffs, and defendants.

The Role of the Harris County Clerk's Office in Civil Courts

The Harris County Clerk's Office plays a critical role in maintaining the records for civil cases filed within the county. This office is responsible for processing filings, docketing cases, issuing citations, recording notices, and managing other procedural aspects of civil cases. The County Clerk ensures that civil court processes run smoothly, from the initial filing of a lawsuit to the issuance of judgments and the collection of fines or fees.

Services Provided by the Harris County Clerk's Office:

Filing and docketing cases: The Clerk’s office is responsible for processing all filings for civil cases.

Issuing court notices and citations: The Clerk issues summons and subpoenas necessary for the legal process.

Record maintenance: The Clerk ensures that all court records are properly maintained, including the judgments, orders, and filings in each case.

Providing certified copies: Certified and non-certified copies of court documents can be requested through the Clerk’s office.

E-filing: All attorneys are required to electronically file documents through EFileTexas.gov for efficiency and to comply with the Supreme Court of Texas' mandate.

For more detailed guidance and resources, visit the Harris County Clerk's website.

Understanding the Civil Courts at Law in Harris County

Harris County is home to four County Civil Courts, each with jurisdiction over civil cases. These courts primarily handle cases involving disputes over money, contracts, property, and other civil issues. The County Civil Courts' jurisdiction is typically limited to cases with an amount in controversy between $200 and $250,000.

Overview of Each Court

Each County Civil Court at Law operates independently, but all follow the same legal procedures and rules. Below are brief descriptions of the individual courts:

County Civil Court 1: This court handles a wide range of civil cases and is presided over by Judge Audrie Lawton-Evans. For more information on this court, visit County Civil Court 1.

County Civil Court 2: Led by Judge Jim F. Kovach, this court manages various civil disputes in Harris County. For further details, check County Civil Court 2.

County Civil Court 3: Judge Lashawn A. Williams oversees this court, which is tasked with hearing a diverse set of civil matters. For more information, visit County Civil Court 3.

County Civil Court 4: This court is presided over by Judge Manpreet Monica Singh and handles civil cases within its jurisdiction. More details can be found on County Civil Court 4.

Each court also features online tools for checking case statuses and scheduling court settings, such as the Court Settings Portal.

E-Filing in Harris County Civil Courts

Since January 1, 2014, Texas law mandates that all attorneys e-file documents for civil cases in the County Civil Courts at Law. The move to e-filing ensures that court filings are processed efficiently and reduces the risk of errors.

To e-file a document in a Harris County Civil Court, attorneys must select an approved Electronic Filing Service Provider (EFSP). Once an EFSP is chosen, the attorney can submit filings to the court electronically through the EFileTexas.gov portal.

E-filing has many benefits:

Efficiency: Documents are filed and processed faster than traditional paper filing methods.

Accessibility: Attorneys and litigants can easily access and track documents online.

Error Reduction: E-filing systems help ensure filings are complete and correct before submission.

Civil Court Costs and Fees in Harris County

There are several costs and fees associated with filing and handling cases in Harris County's Civil Courts. These fees help cover the expenses of running the courts and processing cases.

Common Filing Fees

Filing a civil case: $350.00

Issuance of citations: $8.00 per citation

Certified copy of court documents: $5.00 certification fee + $1.00 per page

Service fees: Fees vary depending on the method of service (e.g., certified mail or constable service).

The detailed fee schedule for civil court services can be found on the Harris County Clerk’s website.

Searching for Court Records in Harris County

Harris County Civil Courts provide multiple ways for the public to search for and access case records. For example, users can visit the Harris County Civil Court Search Portal to search for case details, court dates, and other pertinent information.

This tool is particularly useful for those needing to track ongoing civil cases, view dockets, and stay informed about case developments.

Ordering Copies of Civil Court Documents

You can obtain copies of civil court records either electronically or in person. To get non-certified copies of court documents, you can use the Document Search Portal to search and print documents for a fee. For certified copies, you can request them through the portal or in person at the courthouse.

How to Contact Harris County Civil Courts

Harris County Civil Courts can be contacted for case inquiries, document requests, and other services. Here are the relevant contact details for each department:

Harris County Clerk’s Office

Address: 201 Caroline, 3rd Floor, Houston, TX 77002
Phone: (713) 274-8600
Website: Harris County Clerk

County Civil Court 1

Address: 201 Caroline St., 5th Floor, Houston, TX 77002
Phone: (832) 927-1701
Website: County Civil Court 1

County Civil Court 2

Address: 201 Caroline St., 5th Floor, Houston, TX 77002
Phone: (832) 927-1702
Website: County Civil Court 2

County Civil Court 3

Address: 201 Caroline St., 5th Floor, Houston, TX 77002
Phone: (832) 927-1703
Website: County Civil Court 3

County Civil Court 4

Address: 201 Caroline St., 5th Floor, Houston, TX 77002
Phone: (832) 927-1704
Website: County Civil Court 4

Harris County Probate Courts

Website: Harris County Probate Courts

Harris County Public Records Department

Phone: (713) 274-6390
Website: Public Records

Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts

Website: Justice of the Peace

By utilizing the services and resources of these departments, you can effectively manage and navigate the civil court process in Harris County.

Harris County Civil Courts FAQs

What is the filing process for a civil case in Harris County?

To initiate a civil case in Harris County, you must file your case with the Harris County Clerk's Office. All documents for civil cases must be filed electronically via EFileTexas.gov, as mandated by the Texas Supreme Court since 2014. When filing, ensure all required fees are paid. A Civil Case Information Sheet must accompany the filing. Additional documents can be requested for certified copies, available for purchase from the Clerk's office. For detailed instructions, visit the County Civil Courts page.

How are court fees and charges determined?

In Harris County's civil courts, filing fees vary depending on the type of case. For general civil cases, the filing fee is $350. Issuance fees for citations are $8 each, and service fees for certified mail by the County Clerk cost $80. For more specific case types, such as garnishments or tax suits, the fees can range from $50 to $350 depending on the nature of the case. A detailed fee schedule is available on the Harris County Clerk’s Fee Schedule page.

Can I request a jury trial in Harris County Civil Courts?

Yes, you have the right to request a jury trial in Harris County's civil courts. To do so, you must file a written request with the court no later than 30 days before the scheduled trial date and pay the appropriate jury fee. If you fail to request a jury trial within the specified time, your case will proceed as a bench trial. For further guidance, check the County Civil Courts page.

How can I obtain copies of court documents?

To obtain copies of documents from Harris County Civil Courts, you can request them through the Document Search Portal. Non-certified copies are available for a fee of $1 per page, while certified copies are priced at $5 per document plus $1 per page. Copies can be purchased online or in person at any of the Clerk’s office locations. For more information, visit the Order Copies page.

What should I do if I am served with a lawsuit?

If you are served with a lawsuit in Harris County, it is crucial to follow the instructions outlined in the citation. You must file a written answer with the court on or before the 20th day after being served. Failure to do so may result in a default judgment. It is advisable to send a copy of your answer to the plaintiff or their attorney. For more details, visit the County Civil Courts FAQ section.