Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association

Court Info & Policies

***Tropical Storm Beryl: Harris County Courts will be closed Monday, June 8, 2024***

HCCLA has compiled the following court information as a helpful resource for attorneys practicing in Harris County. It is updated as new information becomes available, but it is always best to check on your particular court setting on the district clerk’s website.

CRIMINAL DISTRICT COURTS
Click the District Court below to find specific court information:
174 176177178179180182183184185208209228230232248262263337338339351482486487488
JUVENILE:  313314315

ASSOCIATE JUDGE DOCKETS:  Judges and Coordinators
* Felony Associate Judge Transfer Criteria

CRIMINAL COURTS AT LAW
Click the County Court below to find specific court information:
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CCL Directory as of 6/01/23

ERD1
(Visiting Judges)
Coordinator:  Yolanda Florido
Courtroom: CJC 4th Floor

ERD2
Judge David Singer
Coordinator:  William Salazar  832-927-1842
Courtroom: CJC 5th Floor

SPECIALTY COURTS
Click the Specialty Court below to find specific court information:
FMHCRICVeteranSTAR
Other Dockets (CR/NGRI, Emergency Relief, Associate Judges)

CCL#1

Judge Alex Salgado (CCL#1)
Coordinator:  Rachel Ferrel  (832) 927-3100
Courtroom: CJC 8th Floor (9:00am)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim01
Public Livestream

Court 1 Appearance Policy

  1. Judge takes the bench at 9am and commences Zoom.
  2. Defendants are to appear in person for arraignment settings and any setting thereafter unless they have hired an attorney or have had an attorney appointed to them by the Court. Attorneys are required to appear on their client’s behalf.
  3. Defendant’s appearances are waived unless there is a plea, trial, a hearing which requires the defendant’s appearance, or the defendant’s appearance has been required by the Judge to address bond conditions or bond violations.
  4. Attorneys can appear in person or via Zoom.
  5. Zoom appearances are encouraged for anyone that may feel they have been exposed to Covid-19 or are feeling any symptoms of Covid-19.
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CCL#2

Judge Paula Goodhart (CCL#2)
Coordinator:  Laura Conte (832) 927-3125
Courtroom: CJC 8th Floor (9:00am)
Zoom*: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim02
Public Livestream

* Beginning January 1, 2023, Harris County Criminal Court at Law #2 will allow Zoom appearances for off-docket matters and individually approved extenuating circumstances only from 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Court 2 Appearance Policy

Arraignment setting: Appearance required
Non-Issue setting(s): Appearance waived
Disposition setting: Appearance required
Pre-trial conference: Appearance required
Plea/Trial/Contested matters: Appearance required

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CCL#3

Judge Leslie R. Johnson (CCL#3)
Coordinator:  Brandy Espinosa  (832) 927-3150
Courtroom: CJC 8th Floor (9:30am)
Zoom*: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim03
Public Livestream

* Beginning January 16, 2023, Harris County Criminal Court at Law # 3 will allow Zoom appearances for individually approved extenuating circumstances only from 9:00AM to 10:00AM.

Court 3 Appearance Policy

  • Arraignment setting: Appearance required
  • Non-Issue setting(s): Appearance waived
  • Disposition setting: Appearance required
  • Pre-trial conference/Pre-trial motions; required
  • Plea/Trial/Contested matters: Appearance required
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CCL#4

Judge Shannon Baldwin (CCL#4)
Coordinator:  Gwen Joseph  (832) 927-3175
Courtroom: CJC 8th Floor (9:30am)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim04
Public Livestream

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CCL#5

Judge David Fleischer (CCL#5)
Coordinator:  Victoria Bernal  (832) 927-3200
Courtroom: CJC 9th Floor (8:30am)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim05
Public Livestream

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CCL#6

Judge Kelley Andrews (CCL#6)
Coordinator:  Shelby Manuel  (832) 927-3225
Courtroom: CJC 9th Floor
Court Docket Hours: 10:30am In-Person; 9:30 am Zoom
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim06
Public Livestream

Court 6 begins at 9:30 AM via Zoom. All appearances are waived unless a Defendant is set for arraignment, a hearing or trial, or has specifically been directed by the Court to appear.

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CCL#7

Judge Andrew A. Wright (CCL#7)
Coordinator:  Elizabeth McGee  (832) 927-3250
Courtroom: CJC 9th Fl  (9:30am M-F)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim07
Public Livestream

Court 7 Appearance Policy
County Criminal Court at Law Number 7 will only operate in person. It remains Court 7’s policies to minimize defendants coming to the CJC. Defendants represented by counsel do not need to be present at the Court unless one of the following circumstances apply:

  1. The case is set for a plea;
  2. the case is set for trial;
  3. the Court needs the defendant there for bond conditions
  4. the Court staff or Pretrial services contact the defense attorney or defendant and instruct them that their presence is required in the Courtroom.

Should you need any accommodations, those will be addressed on a case by case basis with the Court.

OFF DOCKETS
Off Docket matters are being handled by email. Please send coordinator your clients’ names and case numbers with a brief explanation for the reset. Once she receives the email, she will then research the case. Not all cases are eligible for a reset and may remain on the docket per the court’s request. If it is a case that can be reset, she will be resetting the case within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled date. New court dates will be published on the District Clerks website www.hcdistrictclerk.com

THE STATE OF TEXAS
All prosecutors information can be found on the DA Portal. Once you sign on to a case and are attached, you will have access to that information.

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CCL#8

Judge Erika Ramirez (CCL#8)
Coordinator:  Yesika Flores  (832) 927-3288
Courtroom: CJC 9th Fl  (9:00am M-F)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim08
Public Livestream

Court 8 Appearance PolicyRequired appearance- ARRG, Plea, Bond conditions, Bond violation, trial setting request, TRIAL. If your client’s appearance is required in person attorneys must also be present in the court room.

Defendants will not be allowed to appear via zoom.

Zoom will only be open from 9:00-11:00 am.
**off-docket matters can be addressed only after 11:00am in person only

Beginning January 1, 2023, Harris County Court at Law #8 will begin docket at 9:00am.

Court 8 Policies and Procedures

  • I. COURTROOM DECORUMAll parties are expected to show respect for each other and the Court. Request permission to approach the bench and witnesses. Do not interrupt opposing counsel or witnesses. Address the witness as “Mr.,” “Ms.,”, or “Mx.” Any electronic communication to the Court staff should be respectful, as if it were in person.
  • II. DAILY DOCKETDocket is held Monday through Friday and begins at 9am.
    ZOOM
    The Court’s zoom link is open every day from 9-11am, and is only open to Attorneys. If clients are present, Attorneys must be present as well. No pleas allowed over zoom.
    WAIVER OF APPEARANCE
    Upon request by Counsel, a client’s appearance can be waived for a regular setting, but the client must be present for bond violations, hearings and pleas.
    CASES OVER 200 DAYS OLD
    All attorneys must approach on cases over 200 days old
    ASSAULT FAMILY MEMBER CASES
    All attorneys must approach the bench once their assault family member case is over 100 days old
    PRETRIAL INTERVENTION
    Clients who agree to enter the PTI program must do so before the case is 250 days old. If a client does not automatically qualify for PTI, and the Attorney wishes to submit a mitigation packet, it must be done before the case is 180 days old
    OFF DOCKET MATTERS
    The Court will only consider off-docket matters AFTER 11am. If you are asking the Judge to sign an order, please first provide the Clerk the cause number for the case.
    WALK THROUGH ARRAIGNMENTS
    Attorneys must first approach the Court to get approval to see if the Court will allow a walk-through. If approved, be prepared to have a bondsman appear.
    WITHDRAW AS COUNSEL
    Attorneys must approach on all Motions. The Motions will not be signed before the Client’s court date.
  • III. TRIALDefendants must be present in court before a case is set for trial. Trials are set every Tuesday. The court holds pretrial conferences the Friday before the trial date. Jury selection will begin Tuesday after docket/lunch. Continuances should be filed early, but in any event at least 24 hours before the docket call for the case. Generally, the Court will allow one timely asserted continuance. After that, the Court requires a reasonable explanation for the request that takes into consideration the current age and status of the case. The Court will not accept pleas on trial day.
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CCL#9

Judge Toria J. Finch (CCL#9)
Coordinator:  Sheri Gilbert  (832) 927-3300
Courtroom: CJC 10th Fl  (9:00am M-F)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim09
Public Livestream

OFF DOCKET RESETS
All off docket resets will be handled by email. Please submit information (defendant’s name, case number and reason) by 3pm for the following day.

Motion for Continuance Policy

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CCL#10

Judge Juanita Jackson (CCL#10)
Coordinator: LaShawn Allen (832) 927-3326
Courtroom: CJC 10th Fl  (10:00am M-F)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim10
Public Livestream

Scheduling Order – effective Jan 2, 2024:

Starting January 2, 2024, County Criminal Court No. 10 will begin issuing scheduling orders for all cases. The order will provide a setting and discovery timeline for cases to be resolved (including trial) within approximately 210 days. The order also provides deadlines for the completion of pretrial intervention agreements.

All current cases will be reset according to the scheduling order timeline. For cases that are over 210 days old, at their next setting, they will be given a 30 day PTCR (Pretrial Conference) setting to allow a final opportunity to complete discovery and any ongoing pretrial intervention agreements before it is set for trial.

If you have any questions, you are encouraged to stop by the court.

Judge Juanita Jackson

Court 10 Appearance Policy:
  • Docket Begins at 10:00 am
  • ZOOM begins at 11:00 AM
  • Defendants Appearance required for all Arraignment (ARRG) settings.
  • Zoom Appearance: Defendants generally will not be allowed to appear via zoom.(Any special accommodations, must be addressed on a case by case basis with the Court).
  • Defense Counsel may appear via zoom for most settings EXCEPT hearings, trial and pleas.
  • Defendants represented by counsel do not need to be present for court settings unless the case is set for:
    • PLEA
    • Special HEARING
    • TRIAL
    • BOND FORFEITURE
    • The Court staff or Pretrial services contacts the defense attorney and/ or defendant that their presence is required.
  • Both Defendant and Defense Counsel must be present for PLEA.
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CCL#11

Judge Sedrick T. Walker, II (CCL#11)
Coordinator:  Dolores Phillips (832) 927-3350
Courtroom: CJC 10th Fl  (9:30am M-F)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim11
Public Livestream

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CCL#12

Judge Genesis E. Draper (CCL#12)
Coordinator:  Sandrina James (832) 927-3375
Courtroom: CJC 10th Fl  (11:00am M-F)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim12
Public Livestream

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CCL#13

Judge Raul Rodriguez (CCL#13)
Coordinator:  Milanis (Milly) Rodriguez (832) 927-3400
Courtroom: CJC 11th Fl  (8:30am M-F)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim13
Public Livestream

Court 13 Appearance Policy
Court begins at 8:30 AM. Defendants are required to be in court for Arraignments, hearing, trial, pleas or has specifically been directed by the Court to appear.

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CCL#14

Judge Jessica N. Padilla (CCL#14)
Coordinator:  Virginia Almanza-Cerda (832) 927-3425
Courtroom: CJC 11th Floor (9:30am)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim14
Public Livestream

Court 14 Appearance Policy

As of January 1, 2023, everyone must appear in person to court. In extenuating circumstances, approval for waived appearances may be staffed with the Judge prior to the Court date.

Beginning January 1, 2023, Harris County Criminal Court at Law #14 will only do Zoom for attorneys in extenuating circumstances that must be pre-approved. Zoom link will be provided with approval.

If you feel you were exposed to Covid-19 or are feeling any symptoms of Covid-19, please take a Covid-19 test and contact your attorney. If you do not have an attorney, please contact the Court.

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CCL#15

Judge Tonya Jones (CCL#15)
Coordinator:  Aundrea Walls (832) 927-3450
Courtroom: CJC 11th Floor (10:30am)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim15
Public Livestream

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CCL#16

Judge Darrell W. Jordan (CCL#16)
Coordinator:  Adriana Moreno (832) 927-3475
Courtroom: CJC 11th Floor (11:00am)
Zoom: https://hccocm.zoom.us/my/hccrim16
Public Livestream

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174th

Judge Hazel B. Jones (174th)
Coordinator:  Mona Lewis  (832) 927-4208
Courtroom: CJC 19-4  (9:00am M-F) (STAR 2:00pm Wed)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court174
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 897 597 6812

The 174th Criminal District Court is holding in person court proceedings.

  • All in person proceedings will held at the 9am Docket call.
  • The court will address all essential matters at the CJC. (MAJ Hearings/ PSI Hearings/Plea/Jury Trial/MSEH/PTMO)
  • You may appear remotely via Zoom link for non essential cases and matters (NTRL/MOTN) from 12:00 noon – 1:00 pm Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. (Monday* only if Court is not in Jury Trial Selection)
  • Absolutely no off docket matters on Wednesday.
  • No more than thirty persons allowed in courtroom at any given time to adhere to Social Distancing.
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176th

Judge Nikita V. Harmon (176th)
Coordinator: Deberely Ruth (832) 927-4225
Courtroom: CJC 19-1 (8:30 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court176
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 809 933 3141

In-person court appearances.  The Court expects defendants and attorneys (prosecutors and defense attorneys) to be present in court on the date and time of their scheduled appearances unless a request has been made, with good cause shown to the Court, to appear remotely.

The 176th Court will continue to comply with the Supreme Court COVID orders, the COVID orders of the local administrative judge and the judiciary, and will maintain social distancing and all applicable COVID protocols.

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177th

Judge Robert Johnson (177th)
Coordinator: Irene Reyes (832) 927-4250
Courtroom: CJC 19-3  (9:30am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court177
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 209 643 2101

All appearances must be in person in the courtroom.
***NO LONGER USING ZOOM***

ARRAIGNMENTS: Defendants and Attorneys must appear in Court.

CASES LESS THAN 180 DAYS OLD: If attorney gets a reset from Coordinator and signed by the Defendant before the court date, they may do an “off docket” reset.

CASES OLDER THAN 180 DAYS: Defendants and Attorneys must appear.

MOTIONS/ BOND REVOCATIONS/ TRIAL SETTINGS: Defendants and Attorneys must appear in person.

OTHER: Email Coordinator.  But when in doubt, it’s best for the client to be present.

Once a case is set for trial, attorneys will not be allowed to withdraw except for good cause.

The 177th District Court accepts efax filings and esubponeas.

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178th

Judge Kelli Johnson (178th)
Coordinator: Mary Leal  (832) 927-4285
Courtroom: CJC 19-2 (9:30am M-F) (STAR 2:00pm Tue)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court178
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 696 730 5846
178th Court Livestream

Attorney appearance by zoom is allowed. Defendants must appear in person.

178th is no longer livestreaming. Court is open to the public.
Court dockets are back to operating under pre-covid operations.

Judge does not generally entertain bonds until a D has surrender.

You may generate you own reset on bond cases if you want but since most D’s aren’t in court to sign we usually leave it up to the attorney and bonding company to notify client of his/her court date and time.

For further information on the 178th Criminal District Court, consult the 178th court page.

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179th

Judge Ana Martinez (179th)
Coordinator: John King (832) 927-4113
Courtroom: CJC 18th Floor (Room 18040) (9:30 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court179
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 784 792 1985
179th Court Livestream

****For those of you practicing in the 179th, below is the latest communication from the court:
“Due to inclement weather the 179th District Court will be closed Tuesday January 16th, 2024.
All cases will be reset to a later date. Attorneys will be contacted by the Court to inform them of new date. We will continue to monitor weather updates and will make any further announcements as needed.”

All parties are required to appear in person for Court appearances. Both attorneys and defendants (whose appearance has not been waived) are required to appear in person. Attorneys who are Covid positive may appear on Zoom. Defendants whose presence is required and who are Covid positive must provide a positive test.

Please email John King to off docket your case if there are any other reasons that will prevent you from appearing in Court.

The Court will continue to inform parties when Defendants’ appearance is mandatory.  Please approach the Court on behalf of your client to request waiver of appearance if they have tested positive for COVID19 or are not allowed to enter the CJC building because of COVID-19 exposure. Defendants whose presence is required and who are covid positive must provide a positive test.

Motions for (Early) Termination of Community Supervision are handled informally in the 179th.  They are not placed on the docket and they are not set for a hearing. For any and all Motions for Termination of Probation please contact the CLO, Jonathan Charles by email: Jonathan.Charles@csc.hctx.net

Walkthroughs –  The 179th does not allow walkthrough bonds.  Please ask the defendant to surrender to IPC at 700 N San Jacinto.

HIPAA Authorization and Substance Use Disorder Consent (justex.net)

How to Schedule Visitation With Inmates Housed in Louisiana

 

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180th

Judge DaSean Jones (180th)
Coordinator: Dolores Mendiola (832) 927-4125
Courtroom: CJC 18-4 (9:00 am Mon-Thur)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court180
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 924 968 6416
180th Court Livestream

Docket starts at 9:00am. Judge Jones admits everyone all at once and whoever is ready goes first.

Defendants are only required to appear in person on new cases unless they already have an attorney, the attorney can appear for them via zoom, for bond conditions, unless they have an attorney and then conditions can be emailed to the attorney, but the defendant would need to report to pretrial services in person.  They also need to appear in person for pleas and MAJ/MRP hearings.

The court has stopped automatically resetting cases, however, if the attorney emails the coordinator about a reset, they will reset their cases. Attorneys do not need to prepare a reset in the kiosk.

The court allows walk ins on “To Be” cases.

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182nd

Judge Danilo Lacayo (182nd)
Coordinator: Vanessa Guerrero (832) 927-4160
Courtroom: CJC 18-2 (8:30 am M-F) (STAR 2:00pm Thurs)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court182
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 703 390 7988
182nd Court Livestream

Zoom no longer used in this courtroom. Defendant appearances are waived in certain circumstances.

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183rd

Judge Kristin M. Guiney (183rd)
Coordinator: Ana Melendez (832) 927-4184
Courtroom: CJC 18th Fl (9:00 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court183
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 566 263 6475
183rd Court Livestream

Any defendants not represented by counsel MUST appear in court.

Defendants must appear in person for the following settings:

  • Initial appearance of PACA, Pre-trial Motions and Pretrial Conference.
  • If the defendant has a pending bond conditions or violation (WARRANT).
  • The case is set for Disposition or Plea.
  • If specifically told to appear before the court.
  • If the defendant has been in contact with their attorney, their appearance is waived unless they meet the criteria above.

APPROACH JUDGE FOR FOLLOWING MOTIONS:

– MOTION TO WITHDRAW AS COUNSEL OF RECORD
– MOTION FOR EXPERT FEE
– MOTION TO RELEASE PROPERTY

PLEASE CONTACT THE COURT COORDINATOR AND PLACE THE FOLLOWING MATTERS ON THE DOCKET:

– MOTION FOR PERMISSION TO TRAVEL
– WRITS
– OCCUPATIONAL LICENSE

****MOTIONS FOR CONTINUANCE NEED TO BE FILED IN WRITING AND PLACED ON THE DOCKET A WEEK BEFORE TRIAL****

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184th

Judge Katherine N. Thomas (184th)
Coordinator: Joseph DeBruyn (832) 927-3900
Courtroom: CJC 17-4 (8:30 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court184
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 608 924 4730
184th Court Livestream

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185th

Judge Andrea Beall (185th)
Coordinator: Sherila Johnson (832) 927-3925
Courtroom: CJC 17-3 (9:00 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court185
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 925 669 2894
185th Court Livestream

All appearances are in person. This court is no longer using Zoom.

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208th

Judge Beverly Armstrong (208th)
Coordinator: Brittany Jones (832) 927-3950
Courtroom: CJC 17-1 (9:30 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court208
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 343 943 3616
208th Court Livestream

DOCKET SCHEDULING: Below you will find the most up to date schedule of the court’s docket settings.

Be advised that docket call for every case is at 9am. Appearances are not waived for any setting. Defendants are expected to appear in person each and every setting unless otherwise arranged with the court previously. The staff of the court observe a lunch break from 12:30pm to 2pm. Any docketed matters not addressed prior to the lunch observance will be addressed AFTER 2pm.

Bond Docket Schedule:
Tuesday and Thursday—9am until the conclusion of court.

Jail Docket Schedule:
Monday-Thursday— 9am until the conclusion of court

Hearing Docket Schedule:
Wednesdays— 11am until the conclusion of the last hearing

Jury Selection Schedule:
Fridays will be used for jury selection.

———————————————————————————————————-

Off Docket Schedule:
ANY off docketed matters will address ONLY after the conclusion of ALL docketed matters, no sooner than 12pm. This includes,  but is not limited to bond walkthroughs, bond condition amendments, off-docket resets, etc.
———————————————————————————————————-

Information Pertaining to Walk-Throughs.
COUNSELS, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU READ PRIOR TO APPROACHING THE COURT WITH YOUR CLIENT ABOUT A WALK-THROUGH BOND.
With prior notice, the court will entertain off docket approaching for walk-throughs. However, be advised that if any of the following relates to your client, a walk-through WILL NOT BE GRANTED.
First Degree and Aggravated Offenses, Second Degree Offenses, Motions to Adjudicate or Revoke Probations, & Previous Bond Revocations and Forfeitures are not eligible for walk-through bonds. Your client will be docketed, ONLY after they are in custody.

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209th

Judge Brian Warren (209th)
Coordinator: Tom Jones (832) 927-3975
CLO:  Mrs. Jackie Scurry
Courtroom: CJC 17-2 (9:00 AM attorneys consultation / 10:00 AM Docket)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court209
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 359 939 5622
209th Court Livestream

Scheduling Order for the 209th
* Settings, Defendant Appearances (as of 6/29/2021)

We will continue to observe the following rules regarding defendant appearances:

Defendants MUST appear for the following settings

  1. Initial Appearance or PACA
  2. If the defendant has pending bond conditions or violations.
  3. At the first setting once the case reaches the 90 day mark.
  4. If the case remains unindicted after 90 days, the defendant must appear until the case is indicted.
  5. The case is 300 days old or older.
  6. Defendant is on probation or has an MAJ /MRP.
  7. The case is set for disposition or plea.

Or if specifically told to appear before the Court.

If your case is around 90 days old, has been indicted and you are receiving discovery in a timely manner, I am happy to reset off docket for another 45 days. Please email in advance to reset.

Please remember we only take pleas electronically and there is no one available in court to obtain your client’s signatures. It will speed up the plea process if you have all signatures before the day of the plea.

Standing Order for Criminal Cases Pending in the 209th District Court

In order to provide clarity and direction to those individuals practicing before the Court and those individuals appearing before the Court, the following rules will be adopted;

Attorneys

Attorneys do not need to approach on every reset.  Certainly, if there is need to address any matter relating to a case or discovery, the Court is at your disposal to discuss and resolve any matters.  Attorneys are only required to approach when:

  1. The case is unindicted after 90 days.
  2. The case is over 270 days old.
  3. Defendant is on probation or has an MAJ /MRP.
  4. Defendant has pending bond conditions or violations.
  5. The case is on the trial docket.

Defendants

Any Defendant not represented by counsel MUST appear in Court.

Defendants MUST appear for the following settings

  1. Initial Appearance or PACA
  2. If the defendant has pending bond conditions or violations.
  3. At the first setting once the case reaches the 90 day mark.
  4. If the case remains unindicted after 90 days, the defendant must appear until the case is indicted.
  5. The case is over 270 days old.
  6. Defendant is on probation or has an MAJ /MRP.
  7. Or if specifically told to appear before the Court.

The 209th does not want defendants to appear by zoom.  Any attorney for the State or Defense may of course appear by zoom.  A case may be reset with a signature from a defendant on a reset.  If the defendant has been in contact with their attorney, they are excused from court UNLESS they meet the criteria above.

A defendant must appear in person if the case is set for an evidentiary hearing.

Off Docket matters
The court will take up “off docket” matters at 11:30 am. on days the court is regularly scheduled. The attorney for the prosecution must be notified prior to approaching. The court will not discuss any matters in which the defendant is currently fugitive from justice.

The Court allows ‘walk through’ bonds. The attorney for the prosecution must be notified as well as the court clerk.  These matters will not be heard during non-docket days.

Pleas
The 209th is only doing electronic pleas. All plea documents must be electronically signed in the kiosk by both attorney and defendant prior to court setting otherwise attorney must report to court or send a representative to obtain the defendant’s signatures. The court staff will not print plea paperwork or electronically collect signatures on the attorney’s behalf. The Clerk cannot accept e mailed, paper or electronically filed plea paperwork.

Attorneys wishing to contact the attorneys for the state may do so by e-mail:

These are the prosecutors assigned to the 209th District Court.

FCLD: Bailee Pender
Sex Crimes: Lucas Baty
#3: Ryan Fuller
#2: Rebecca Marshall
Chief: Chandler Raine

228th

Judge Frank Aguilar (228th)
Coordinator: Marvin Rodriguez (832) 927-3800
Courtroom: CJC 16-2 (8:30 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court228
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 346 260 0945
228th Court Livestream

Approaching on bond amounts: Please request a Public safety report from the coordinator before approaching on any requests to modify or set a bond amount. The request must be submitted at least a day before approaching.

If you are approaching about a walk through please have your client and a bondsman present in the courtroom.

We off docket cases upon request with the exception of a few cases that were recently sent to the NRG trial docket.

The court allows defendants to appear on “to be” cases. They may appear in court to have a bond set, do a walkthrough and address bond conditions.

Do you want us to generate a RESET form from the KIOSK? No.

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230th

Judge Chris Morton (230th)
Coordinator: Quinesha Ross (832) 927-3825
Courtroom: CJC 16-1 (8:30 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court230
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 744 079 5874
230th Court Livestream

The court allows defendants to appear on “to be” cases and have bond/conditions set in court, they don’t have to surrender to the jail. “To be” cases must be placed on the docket, attorneys can contact me via email for a court date. Please have a bonding company on stand by for a walk through bond.

Please generate reset forms from the kiosk.

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232nd

Judge Josh Hill (232nd)
Coordinator: Laporsha Barlow (832) 927-3850
Courtroom: CJC 16-3 (9:30 am M-F) ((STAR 2:00pm Mon)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court232
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 574 844 0819
232nd Court Livestream

Policies for the 232nd District Court of Harris County, Texas:

  1. Docket begins at 9:30am.  The Court is available earlier if needed.  Lawyers may email the Court as long as both sides are copied on the communication for matters that are not legally required to take place in a designated Courthouse – there will be no ex parte communications.  If there is a motion pending on any specific issue, parties are required to approach the Court in person or on Zoom.
  2. If both sides agree that a reset is appropriate on a case, there is no need to approach or involve the Court; the parties can notify the coordinator directly to get a new date.  In unique circumstances, the Court will contact all parties if it is necessary to approach prior to getting a reset date.  If the parties wish to address the Court before resetting a case (bond conditions, bail amounts, “without an agreed recommendation” pleas, etc.), they may do so in person, on Zoom, or for matters that are not urgent, by email (as long as all parties are copied on the email).
  3. Lawyers do not need to appear in person unless specifically notified otherwise by the Court.
  4. Any Defendant who can safely do so is always welcome to appear in Court in person or on Zoom.  Defendants represented by counsel generally do not need to appear in person unless they wish to or unless they are specifically notified by the Court, Pretrial Services, the Probation Department, or their counsel that their physical presence is necessary.  If it is alleged that conditions of bond have been violated, counsel should contact the Court to determine if the Defendant’s presence is necessary.  If a Defendant’s physical presence is not necessary, counsel should have the Defendant available to Zoom in to Court.  There is no need for a Defendant to wait on Zoom during docket call, counsel should simply have the Defendant available in the event that the Court requests a remote presence.
  5. Defendants who are not yet represented by counsel, or who wish to proceed pro se, must appear in person.  If an unrepresented Defendant believes there is good reason to not appear, the Defendant should contact the Court to see if arrangements can be made to reschedule the Court date.
  6. In regards to issues about bail, parties may approach the Court (in person, on Zoom, or by email with all sides copied) whenever relevant information becomes available, even if they have approached previously.  Criminal proceedings are unique and dynamic, and circumstances change rapidly, so what was once appropriate may no longer be so.  Unless the case presents a unique set of circumstances, walk-through bonds are permitted by the Court if the appropriate arrangements are made with a bail bonding company.  If either side wishes to discuss matters regarding bail in person or on Zoom (including a walk-through), they should contact opposing counsel ahead of time so that everyone can be properly prepared to discuss the matter.  For email communications regarding bail, bond conditions, walk-throughs, etc., all parties must be copied and should be aware that responses may not be immediate.  If a party wishes to have an evidentiary hearing on the record regarding bail or bond conditions, that party should contact the Court and opposing counsel so that the appropriate arrangements can be made quickly.
  7. Generally, the following policy for the 232nd always stands:  If anyone believes for good reason that their health or safety would be compromised by trying to get to Court, that person should stay home and make some attempt to contact the Court to reschedule as soon as practical.  Any lawyer on any case can always request an off-docket reset or to waive a client’s appearance, regardless of health, natural disaster, or safety scares.  Parties can email or call the coordinator for any resets.  In an emergency situation, any lawyer can always email, text, or call the Court by cell phone if all parties are copied or are on the call for matters that aren’t required to be conducted in a designated Courthouse – there will be no ex parte communications through email or phone conference.
  8. If there are any questions about any of the policies of the 232nd District Court of Harris County, Texas, please contact the Court for clarification.
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248th

Judge Hilary Unger (248th)
Coordinator: Kym Neelys (832) 927-3875
Courtroom: CJC 16-4 (9:30 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court248
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 251 151 1514
248th District Court Live Steam

Defendants should check in with their attorneys before court. If you need to come to court, you must be here by 9:30 a.m.  If you are late, you must check in with the bailiff as soon as you arrive.

When you are admitted to the courtroom:

  • Seat socially distanced in the audience – no family or friends are allowed into the courtroom.
  • Cell phones must be off and put away – not silent, not vibrate
  • Examples of impermissible clothing include: hats, clothing with explicit language or imagery, visible undergarments
  • Do not leave court until you have received a reset and have been told by court staff that you may leave

All attorneys can appear via zoom if they choose. Most defendants can appear via zoom if they have already made an initial appearance or they do not need bond conditions or have any court violations. All defendants need to be present via zoom or in person but attorneys can ask coordinator to waive appearance. If I have not waived appearance they are expected to be present via zoom or in person.

(from coordinator): Mostly all cases are off docketed on my own depending on age. Attorneys can ask me for off docket reset without approaching Judge. In most cases the only reason I will not off docket a case is for older cases, if they need bond conditions or if they have bond violations. As far as the trial cases at the moment we are giving automatic resets unless parties want a speedy NRG trial. I will always notify attorneys of regular court settings and trial date changes I move on my own. Come January we will be starting our custody case trials back up and will be getting in touch with parties about 3 weeks prior to trial date.

Defendants can appear/walk thru on “to be” cases, but the case needs to be docketed at least a day prior so please get with me to docket case. There must be a bond co present to process defendant’s bond. Even if counsel is asking for a pr bond still have bonding co on standby just in case they are denied that. Defendant will not be able to leave court with an open warrant unless they are accompanied by bonding co securing bond.

Please use kiosk to generate a reset. I am a paperless system, and you are guaranteed to get out quicker if your reset is already generated even before docket start time if your client has a good history of being present. You also have permission to sign for your client if they have given you permission to do so but be aware if you do sign for them they will still be subject to bond forfeiture rules if they do not appear. (place by permission on reset or sign your name for: John Doe)

Email is the best way to reach me. Please know that email volume is at an all-time high right now so please give me time to response. Kym_Neelys@justex.net

– – – – –

Before court, prosecutors and defense attorneys should contact opposing counsel  to discuss their cases.  All attorneys must appear with opposing counsel every time they have a case on the docket.  You may appear in person or remotely.  See the “Zoom Protocol” section for instructions on appearing by Zoom.

Appearing via Zoom is the equivalent of a court appearance.  Although the court is less formal right now and the dress code is relaxed, everyone must present themselves respectfully.  (no baseball caps, graphic t-shirts, sunglasses, gum, pajamas, eating, etc.)

*****
When there are changes to the court’s schedule or procedures, this website will be updated as quickly as possible and the court will attempt to contact anyone who will be immediately impacted by the changes.

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262nd

Judge Lori Chambers Gray (262nd)
Coordinator: Cindy Purifoy (832) 927-3701
Courtroom: CJC 15-4 (8:30 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court262
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 804-476-8400
262nd Court Livestream

All parties must appear in person.

Before court, prosecutors and defense attorneys should contact opposing counsel to discuss their cases.  All attorneys must appear every time they have a case on the docket.

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263rd

Judge Melissa M. Morris (263rd)
Coordinator: Cynthia Martinez (832) 927-3725
Courtroom: CJC 15-3 (9:30 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court263
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 781-898-7728
263rd Court Livestream

263rd Court Policies  (effective July 1, 2023)

Standing Order of the 263rd Judicial District Court on Subpoenas, Motions or Requests for Pretrial Services Records  (effective April 24, 2024)

Please watch the Harris County District Clerk’s website for updates.

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337th

Judge Colleen Gaido (337th)
Coordinator: Angela Jerez (832) 927-3750
Courtroom: CJC 15-2 (9:30 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court337
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 210-754-9710
337th Court Livestream

BOND CASES 
If your client is on bond they must be physically present for:

  • initial appearance
  • bond violations
  • hearings
  • pleas
  • trial settings
  • pending MAJs/MRPs

Your appearance in court is also required for all of the above settings. If your client is not on the docket for any of the reasons above their appearance is waived as long as you have good contact with them.

Your client is encouraged to NOT appear for any setting that is not listed above. They may Zoom in but do not have to, and will be kicked off zoom for inappropriate clothing/language. Please encourage them to not come to the courthouse if they do not have to.

As attorney it is up to you how to appear for settings not listed above, so you may appear via Zoom or in person unless specifically told otherwise by the Court.

IN CUSTODY CASES
If your client is in custody, you must be physically present for:

  • ALL settings

– You may, upon prior approval from the court appear remotely, however it is expected that you would have spoken with your client before the setting and that you speak with them on the holdover phone at their docket setting before approaching.

The following Zoom rules remain in effect:

– attorneys must be dressed professionally and must have their camera on

– no Zooming from a moving vehicle

– attorneys must speak to the State before approaching the bench about a case

– priority will be given to attorneys who appear in person in order to keep the courtroom as clear as possible, but I will be cognizant of those attorneys waiting on Zoom and promise to try to get to them expeditiously.

  • initial appearance
  • hearings, including motions to reduce bail
  • pleas
  • trial settings
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338th

Judge Ramona Franklin (338th)
Coordinator: Aileen Walker (832) 927-3775
Courtroom: CJC 15-1 (10:30 am M-Th and every other Fri)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court338
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 824-047-5892
338th Court Livestream

Court is no longer using zoom. ALL APPEARANCES ARE IN PERSON.

DOCKET CALL IS AT 10:30 AM

ABSOLUTELY NO OFF DOCKET MATTERS WILL BE HANDLED.

ALL PARTIES MUST WEAR MASKS.

***SEAT SOCIALLY DISTANCED IN THE AUDIENCE***

***PARTIES WHO ARE COVID POSITIVE MUST IMMEDIATELY INFORM THE COURT***

***DEFENDANTS WHO ARE COVID POSITIVE MUST PROVIDE A VALID POSITIVE TEST RESULT***

The 338th District Court will continue to comply with the Texas Supreme Court COVID orders, the COVID orders of the local administrative judge and the judiciary, and will maintain social distancing and all applicable COVID protocols to ensure safety for all parties involved.

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339th

Judge Te’Iva Bell (339th)
Coordinator: A’ri Jackson (832) 927-3650
Courtroom: CJC 14-3 (8:30-11:30am M-Th, 8:30-10:30 F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court339
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 409-626-8906
339th Court Livestream

**** Due to weather, 339th Court is CLOSED on Tuesday, Jan 16, 2024.

ALL PARTIES ARE TO APPEAR IN PERSON

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351st

Judge Natalia “Nata” Cornelio (351st)
Coordinator: Christopher Gil (832) 927-3680
Courtroom: CJC 14-2 (9:00 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court351
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 227-363-0192
351st Court Livestream

351st Emergency Relief Docket

351st Court Appearance/Zoom Policy

351st Court PSI/MRP/MAJ Hearings with Associate Judges

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482nd 

Judge Veronica M. Nelson (482nd)
Coordinator: Josue Ochoa (832) 927-4040
Courtroom: CJC 14th Floor (9:00 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court482
or call in:  (Houston)
Meeting ID:
482nd Court Livestream

Weather alert:
For those asking, the 482nd District Court follows HISD closure announcement for weather. If HISD is closed, court will be closed. If HISD remains open, so will the 482nd. Please remember we also allow for zoom appearances. If you or your client cannot safely make court please feel free to zoom into docket. Safety is our main concern. If HISD and Court closes, please contact Josue Ochoa for any reset days.

Court Appearance Policy
482nd District Court Guidelines (effective January 1, 2023)

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486th

Judge Aaron Burdette (486th)
Coordinator:  (832) 927-8597
Courtroom: CJC 14th Floor
Zoom:
or call in:  (Houston)
Meeting ID:

PACA only Oct 2-4. First docketed day for transferred cases will be Thursday, Oct 5.

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487th

Judge Lori Ann DeAngelo (487th)
Coordinator:  (832) 927-8612
Courtroom: CJC 20th Floor
Zoom:
or call in:  (Houston)
Meeting ID:

PACA only Oct 2-4. First docketed day for transferred cases will be Thursday, Oct 5.

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488th

Judge Matthew Peneguy (488th)
Coordinator:  (832) 927-8627
Courtroom: CJC 20th Floor
Zoom:
or call in:  (Houston)
Meeting ID:

PACA only Oct 2-4. First docketed day for transferred cases will be Thursday, Oct 5.

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313th 

Judge Natalia Cokinos Oakes (313th)
Coordinator: Natalie Yates (832) 927-8435
Courtroom: JJC 7th Floor
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court313
Meeting ID:

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314th 

Judge Michelle Moore (314th)
Coordinator: Lakeisha Simmons (832) 927-8458
Courtroom: JJC 5th Floor
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court314
Meeting ID:

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315th 

Judge Leah Shapiro (315th)
Coordinator: Chanelle Scott
Courtroom: JJC 5th Floor
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/Court315
Meeting ID:

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STAR Drug Courts

Coordinator:  Ariel Sanchez, (832) 927-4332
(832) 927-4323 Keith Liles, Manager
Courtroom: CJC 20th Floor

STAR Adult Drug Court Website

For docket locations and times, see District Courts 174, 178, 182, 232.

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Felony Mental Health Court

Competency Restoration

Judge Brock Thomas (FMHC)
Felony Mental Health Court
Coordinator: Norma Lopez, (832) 927-4346
Courtroom: CJC 20th Floor (2:00 pm M & Th)

Felony Mental Health Court Website

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Veterans Court

Veterans Court — Applications
Coordinator:  Ariel Sanchez, (832) 927-4332
Courtroom: CJC 20th Floor (2:00 pm Wed)

Veterans Court Website

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RIC Court

Judge Brock Thomas
Coordinator: Gabriel Montero (832) 927-4303
or Ebony Thompson (832) 927-4300
Courtroom: CJC 20th Fl (9:00 am M-F)
Zoom: https://justex.zoom.us/my/CourtRIC
or call in: 346-248-7799 (Houston)
Meeting ID: 641 568 3931

RIC Court Livestream

ALL DEFENDANTS ARE REQUIRED TO APPEAR IN PERSON FOR THE RIC DOCKET UNLESS OTHERWISE INSTRUCTED BY THE COURT

*If HISD is closed to due inclement weather, RIC will be closed also.

Recovery Coaches:
Melissa Porter (832) 627-7282
SeMarlon Williams
Eric Richardson (832) 840-4010

The Harris Center:
Rosalynn Bouldin     rosalynn.bouldin@TheHarrisCenter.org
LaMonica Kinch     lamonica.kinch@TheHarrisCenter.org

More info on RIC Court’s page

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Upcoming Events

Contact Us

Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association
P.O. Box 924523
Houston, TX 77292-4523
(713) 227-2404