Justice of the Peace Courts

The Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts play an essential role in the local justice system. These courts handle a range of cases, from traffic violations to evictions, small claims, and even criminal matters. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Justice of the Peace Courts in Harris County, Texas, explaining how they operate, the types of cases they handle, and how you can interact with them, whether you're a defendant, plaintiff, or simply seeking information. Let's dive into the intricate workings of these courts to better understand their function within the broader legal landscape.

What is a Justice of the Peace Court?

Justice of the Peace Courts (JP Courts) in Harris County serve as the local courts for handling minor civil and criminal matters. They are part of a larger judicial system that allows residents to resolve disputes efficiently and at a lower cost than in district or county courts. Each precinct in Harris County has one or more Justice of the Peace Courts, and each court is headed by a Justice of the Peace (JP) who is an elected official.

The Role of a Justice of the Peace

A Justice of the Peace in Harris County holds significant responsibility, including:

Hearing Small Claims: Justice Courts are often the place for small claims cases where one party is seeking damages under a set limit (typically under $10,000 in Texas).

Handling Traffic and Misdemeanor Cases: These courts address minor criminal matters such as traffic violations, public intoxication, and minor theft.

Eviction Hearings: JP Courts handle eviction cases, often involving landlord-tenant disputes and unlawful detainers.

Weddings: In some instances, Justices of the Peace perform civil weddings.

Other Civil and Criminal Cases: These courts also hear cases involving bad checks, occupational licenses, and more.

With 16 precincts across Harris County, the jurisdiction of each JP Court covers different geographic areas, making it easier for residents to access justice close to home.

Types of Cases in Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts

Traffic Cases

Traffic tickets and violations make up a significant portion of the cases heard in Harris County’s Justice of the Peace Courts. These courts deal with a wide range of offenses, from speeding tickets to parking violations. Defendants facing traffic tickets may have the option to contest the ticket, attend a driving safety course, or pay fines.

Key Points About Traffic Cases:

Online Payment Options: Harris County Justice Courts allow online payment for traffic tickets through the JP website.

Driver Safety Course: Eligible defendants can apply for a driving safety course, which can result in the dismissal of a traffic ticket upon successful completion.

Evictions

Evictions are another common case type in Harris County JP Courts. Landlords can file for an eviction if a tenant has not paid rent or violated other terms of their lease agreement. The process typically includes a hearing where both parties can present their case, and the judge will decide whether the tenant must vacate the property.

What to Know About Eviction Cases:

Rental Assistance Programs: Harris County offers rental assistance through programs like the Eviction Defense Program, which can help tenants who qualify to prevent eviction.

Court Hearing: If you are involved in an eviction case, the Justice of the Peace will hold a hearing to decide the matter.

Small Claims and Justice Court Suits

For individuals seeking to resolve disputes involving smaller amounts of money, Harris County’s Justice of the Peace Courts offer a platform for filing small claims suits. These types of cases are typically straightforward and involve one party seeking a monetary judgment from another.

Small Claims Process:

Limitations: These courts handle cases where the amount of the claim is typically under $10,000.

Filing a Lawsuit: Plaintiffs can file suits in JP Courts to resolve disputes with individuals or businesses.

Criminal Cases

Although more serious criminal offenses are handled in county or district courts, Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts do hear certain minor criminal cases, including misdemeanors. This could include cases involving theft, drug possession, and public intoxication, where the charges are relatively minor.

What Happens in Criminal Cases:

Plea Options: Defendants may have the option to enter a no-contest plea or attend a driving safety course to resolve minor offenses.

Court Appearances: Criminal defendants are required to appear in person or can communicate with the court via email in certain circumstances.

Bad Check Cases

The Harris County JP Courts also handle cases involving bad checks, where a person has written a check that was not honored by the bank due to insufficient funds. These cases are typically filed by the payee (the person to whom the check was written).

Filing for Bad Check Cases:

Legal Proceedings: The individual who received the bad check can file a case in the relevant JP Court to recover the amount due, plus potential additional fees.

Occupational Licenses

In certain cases, individuals may be required to file for an occupational license, especially in situations where their primary driver’s license has been suspended. Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts can process applications for these licenses.

How to Interact with Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts

Filing a Case

In Harris County, you can file cases in person or via the eFileTexas system. eFiling is a convenient option for submitting civil and criminal cases, traffic tickets, and other legal documents to the court.

Paying Fines and Citations

If you are issued a citation or ticket, Harris County JP Courts offer an online payment system. You can visit the relevant court's page, search for your case, and make the necessary payments via credit card. Payments can also be made in person.

Attending Court

While many cases may be resolved online, some cases, such as evictions and criminal cases, will require in-person attendance. Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts generally operate Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, except for county holidays.

Self-Help Resources

The Harris County JP Courts provide self-help resources for individuals who are representing themselves in court. This includes forms for filing suits, making payments, and other necessary legal actions.

Contacting the Court

Each precinct has contact information available online for litigants to communicate with the court. If you need to speak with the court regarding your case, you can find contact details for each court precinct on the official website.

Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts: Precincts and Judges

Each precinct in Harris County has a Justice of the Peace who oversees cases in their designated area. Here is a list of the available precincts, judges, and their contact information:

Precinct 1, Place 1

Judge: Eric William Carter
Address: 7300 North Shepherd, Houston, Texas 77091
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 1, Place 2

Judge: Steve Duble
Address: 1302 Preston St #103, Houston, TX 77002
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 2, Place 1

Judge: Jo Ann Delgado
Address: 10851 Scarsdale Blvd #500, Houston, TX 77089
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 2, Place 2

Judge: Dolores Lozano
Address: 101 S. Richey Street Ste B, Pasadena, TX 77506
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 3, Place 1

Judge: Joe Stephens
Address: 14350 Wallisville Road, Houston, Texas 77049
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 3, Place 2

Judge: Lucia Bates
Address: 701 W Baker Rd #100, Baytown, TX 77521
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 4, Place 1

Judge: Lincoln Goodwin
Address: 14350 Wallisville Road, Houston, Texas 77049
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 4, Place 2

Judge: Laryssa Korduba
Address: 14350 Wallisville Road, Houston, Texas 77049
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 5, Place 1

Judge: James Lombardino
Address: 14350 Wallisville Road, Houston, Texas 77049
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 5, Place 2

Judge: Bob Wolfe
Address: 14350 Wallisville Road, Houston, Texas 77049
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 6, Place 1

Judge: Victor Treviño III
Address: 14350 Wallisville Road, Houston, Texas 77049
Phone: (713) 274-0695

Precinct 6, Place 2

Judge: Angela D. Rodriguez
Address: 143

Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts FAQs

What types of cases are handled by the Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts?

The Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts deal with a wide range of cases, including traffic violations, small claims, evictions, bad checks, and certain criminal offenses such as misdemeanors. Additionally, these courts also handle civil suits, occupational license applications, and even officiate weddings. The specific types of cases and their procedures vary depending on the particular court precinct.

How can I pay fines or citations for a traffic violation in Harris County?

Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts offer online payment options for traffic citations through their official website. You can search for your case and pay fines using a credit card. In addition, eligible defendants may apply for a Driving Safety Course to dismiss their traffic ticket, provided they meet certain criteria. More details are available on the court’s website for those interested in this option.

How do I file an eviction case in Harris County?

Eviction cases in Harris County are processed through the Justice of the Peace Courts. Landlords must file a petition for eviction if tenants have failed to comply with their rental agreements, such as not paying rent. Once filed, the court will schedule a hearing where both parties can present their case. Tenants may also seek assistance through rental assistance programs, which can help prevent eviction if they qualify.

What is the process for filing a small claims case?

Small claims cases can be filed in Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts if the amount in dispute is less than $10,000. Individuals or businesses seeking compensation or resolution for disputes can submit a petition in the relevant court. The process is typically straightforward, and the court will provide forms and guidelines for filing. Cases are heard by the Justice of the Peace, who will render a judgment after both parties have presented their evidence.

Can I represent myself in a Justice of the Peace Court?

Yes, individuals can represent themselves in Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts, as these courts are designed to handle simpler matters that do not require legal counsel. However, the court cannot provide legal advice. Self-help resources are available online to assist individuals with filing documents and understanding the procedures for cases like small claims, traffic tickets, and evictions.

How do I find my case information or court date?

To find information about your case or upcoming court dates, you can visit the Harris County Justice of the Peace Court's online portal. The website allows you to search for cases by case number, name, or driver's license number. You can also check the court dockets to find specific hearing dates and case details.