reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 24.025. Supplemental Compensation

Sec. 24.025.  SUPPLEMENTAL COMPENSATION.  (a)  Unless otherwise provided by this subchapter, all district judges in a county are entitled to equal amounts of supplemental compensation from the county.
(b)  A district judge is entitled to an amount of supplemental compensation for serving on the juvenile board of a county that is equal to the amount other judges serving on the juvenile board receive.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 3 (H.B. 79), Sec. 3.04, eff. January 1, 2012.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 24.026. Appointment of Initial Judge

Sec. 24.026.  APPOINTMENT OF INITIAL JUDGE.  On the creation of a new judicial district, the initial vacancy in the office of district judge is filled in accordance with Section 28, Article V, Texas Constitution.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 3 (H.B. 79), Sec. 3.04, eff. January 1, 2012.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 24.027. Grand and Petit Jurors

Sec. 24.027.  GRAND AND PETIT JURORS.  All grand and petit jurors selected in a county before a new district court is created or the composition of an existing district court is modified by an amendment to this chapter are considered to be selected for the new or modified district court, as applicable.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 3 (H.B. 79), Sec. 3.04, eff. January 1, 2012.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 24.028. Cases Transferred

Sec. 24.028.  CASES TRANSFERRED.  If by an amendment to this chapter a county is removed from the composition of an existing judicial district and added to another existing or new judicial district, all cases and proceedings from that county that are pending in the district court of the judicial district from which the county was removed are transferred to the district court of the judicial district to which the county is added.  The judge of each affected district court shall sign the proper orders in connection with the transfer.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 3 (H.B. 79), Sec. 3.04, eff. January 1, 2012.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 24.029. Processes, Writs, and Other Obligations Remain Valid

Sec. 24.029.  PROCESSES, WRITS, AND OTHER OBLIGATIONS REMAIN VALID.  (a)  If by an amendment to this chapter a county is removed from the composition of an existing judicial district and added to another existing or new judicial district, or if an amendment to this chapter changes the time or place at which the terms of court are held, all processes, writs, bonds, recognizances, and other obligations issued from and made returnable to that court before the effective date of the transfer or other change are returnable as provided by this subsection.  An obligation issued from the affected court is returnable to another district court in the county on the date that court directs, but may not be made returnable on a date that is earlier than the date on which the obligation was originally returnable.  The obligations are legal and valid as if the obligations had been made returnable to the issuing court.
(b)  The obligees in all appearance bonds and recognizances taken in and for a district court of a county before the effective date of an amendment to this chapter, and all witnesses summoned to appear before that district court under laws existing before the effective date of an amendment to this chapter, are required to appear at another district court in the county on the date that court directs, but may not be required to appear on a date that is earlier than the date on which the obligees or witnesses were originally required to appear.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 3 (H.B. 79), Sec. 3.04, eff. January 1, 2012.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 24.030. Location of Court

Sec. 24.030.  LOCATION OF COURT.  (a)  A district court shall sit in the county seat for a jury trial in a civil case.  The commissioners court of the county may authorize a district court to sit in any municipality within the county to hear and determine nonjury trials in civil cases and to hear and determine motions, arguments, and other matters not heard before a jury in a civil case that is within the court's jurisdiction.
(b)  The district clerk or the clerk's deputy serves as clerk of the court when a court sits in a municipality other than the municipality that is the county seat and may transfer:
(1)  all necessary books, minutes, records, and papers to that municipality while the court is in session there; and
(2)  the books, minutes, records, and papers back to the clerk's office in the county seat at the end of each session.
(c)  If the commissioners court authorizes a district court to sit in a municipality other than the municipality that is the county seat, the commissioners court shall provide suitable facilities for the court in that municipality.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 3 (H.B. 79), Sec. 3.04, eff. January 1, 2012.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 24.031. Court Officers

Sec. 24.031.  COURT OFFICERS.  The prosecuting attorney, the sheriff, the district clerk, the bailiffs, and the other officers serving the other district courts of the county shall serve in their respective capacities for the courts listed in this chapter.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 3 (H.B. 79), Sec. 3.04, eff. January 1, 2012.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 24.033. Location of Proceedings Following Certain Disasters

Sec. 24.033.  LOCATION OF PROCEEDINGS FOLLOWING CERTAIN DISASTERS.  (a)  Repealed by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 507 (S.B. 40), Sec. 17, eff. June 7, 2019.
(b)  Notwithstanding any other law, if a disaster, as defined by Section 418.004, precludes a district court from conducting its proceedings at the county seat of that county, the presiding judge of the administrative judicial region, with the approval of the judge of the affected district court, may designate for the proceedings an alternate location:
(1)  in the judicial district of the affected court; or
(2)  outside the judicial district at the location the presiding judge determines is closest in proximity to the county seat that allows the court to safely and practicably conduct its proceedings, provided the presiding judge of the administrative judicial region for the designated location approves if that presiding judge is not the presiding judge making the designation.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1076 (H.B. 2766), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 507 (S.B. 40), Sec. 4, eff. June 7, 2019.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 507 (S.B. 40), Sec. 17, eff. June 7, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 24.034. Assignment of Cases in District Courts in Hidalgo County

Sec. 24.034.  ASSIGNMENT OF CASES IN DISTRICT COURTS IN HIDALGO COUNTY.  (a)  All civil and criminal cases in the district courts in Hidalgo County shall be assigned and docketed at random by the district clerk using an automated system.
(b)  In assigning a case to a district court, the district clerk shall take into consideration any requirement in Subchapter B that a district court in Hidalgo County give preference to specific matters.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 541 (S.B. 1575), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.101. 1st Judicial District (Jasper, Newton, Sabine, and San Augustine Counties)

Sec. 24.101.  1ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT (JASPER, NEWTON, SABINE, AND SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTIES).  (a)  The 1st Judicial District is composed of Jasper, Newton, Sabine, and San Augustine counties.
(b)  In addition to other jurisdiction provided by law, the 1st District Court in Sabine and San Augustine counties has the civil jurisdiction of a county court.
(c)  The terms of the 1st District Court begin:
(1)  in Jasper County on the first Monday in January and the 22nd Monday after the first Monday in January;
(2)  in Newton County on the 5th and 34th Mondays after the first Monday in January;
(3)  in San Augustine County on the 11th and 40th Mondays after the first Monday in January;  and
(4)  in Sabine County on the 17th and 45th Mondays after the first Monday in January.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.102. 2nd Judicial District (Cherokee County)

Sec. 24.102.  2ND JUDICIAL DISTRICT (CHEROKEE COUNTY).  (a)  The 2nd Judicial District is composed of Cherokee County.
(b)  The terms of the 2nd District Court begin on the first Mondays in March and September.
(c)  The judge may take a vacation and not attend court for four weeks in each year.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.103. 3rd Judicial District (Anderson, Henderson, and Houston Counties)

Sec. 24.103.  3RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT (ANDERSON, HENDERSON, AND HOUSTON COUNTIES).  (a)  The 3rd Judicial District is composed of Anderson, Henderson, and Houston counties.
(b)  The terms of the 3rd District Court begin:
(1)  in Anderson County on the first Mondays in April, July, and December;
(2)  in Henderson County on the first Mondays in February, June, and September;  and
(3)  in Houston County on the first Mondays in March, August, and October.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.104. 4th Judicial District (Rusk County)

Sec. 24.104.  4TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (RUSK COUNTY).  (a)  The 4th Judicial District is composed of Rusk County.
(b)  The terms of the 4th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January and July.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 1.01, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.105. 5th Judicial District (Bowie and Cass Counties)

Sec. 24.105.  5TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (BOWIE AND CASS COUNTIES).  (a)  The 5th Judicial District is composed of Bowie and Cass counties.
(b)  In addition to other jurisdiction provided by law, each district court in Bowie and Cass counties has the civil and criminal jurisdiction of a county court.
(c)  In Bowie County, the 5th Judicial District has concurrent jurisdiction with the 102nd Judicial District.  Either court, in term or in vacation, may transfer a pending civil or criminal case to the other court by an order entered on the minutes of the transferring court.
(d)  The terms of the 5th District Court begin:
(1)  in Bowie County on the first Mondays in January and July;  and
(2)  in Cass County on the first Mondays in February, May, August, and November.
(e)  The 5th and 102nd district courts may sit in Bowie County in Texarkana, in addition to Boston, to try, hear, and determine nonjury civil or criminal cases, motions, arguments, and other nonjury matters.
(f)  When the courts sit in Texarkana, the Bowie County district clerk or the clerk's deputy shall serve as clerk of the courts and may transfer all necessary books, minutes, and records to Texarkana or Boston when necessary.  The Bowie County sheriff or the sheriff's deputy shall attend the courts in Texarkana and perform all duties required by law or by the court.
(g)  The Commissioners Court of Bowie County may provide suitable quarters for the 5th and 102nd district courts in Texarkana or may make an agreement with the City of Texarkana to provide quarters.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1012, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.107. 7th Judicial District (Smith County)

Sec. 24.107.  7TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (SMITH COUNTY).  (a)  The 7th Judicial District is composed of Smith County.
(b)  The terms of the 7th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January and July.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.108. 8th Judicial District (Delta, Franklin, Hopkins, and Rains Counties)

Sec. 24.108.  8TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (DELTA, FRANKLIN, HOPKINS, AND RAINS COUNTIES).  (a)  The 8th Judicial District is composed of Delta, Franklin, Hopkins, and Rains counties.
(b)  In any county in the district in which there are two or more district courts, those district courts have concurrent jurisdiction in that county.
(c)  In any county in the district in which there are two or more district courts, the judges of those courts may, in their discretion, either in termtime or in vacation, on motion of any party, on agreement of the parties, or on their own motion, transfer any civil or criminal case or proceeding on their dockets to the docket of one of the other district courts.  The judges in Delta and Franklin counties may transfer a case by an order entered on the minutes of the transferring court.  The judges of the courts may, in their discretion, exchange benches or districts from time to time.  If a judge of one of the courts is disqualified, he may transfer the case or proceeding from his court to one of the other courts.  Any of the judges may in his own courtroom try and determine any case or proceeding pending in any of the other courts without having the case transferred or may sit in any of the other courts and hear and determine any case or proceeding pending in one of those courts.  Two or more judges may try different cases in the same court at the same time and each may occupy his own courtroom or the room of any other court.  In case of absence, sickness, or disqualification of any of the judges, any other of the judges may hold court for him.  Any of the judges may hear and determine any part or question of any case or proceeding pending in any of the courts, and any other of the judges may complete the hearing and render judgment in the proceeding.  Any of the judges may hear and determine motions, petitions for injunction, applications for appointment of receivers, interventions, motions to transfer venue, pleas in abatement and all dilatory pleas, motions for new trials, and all preliminary matters, questions, and proceedings, and may enter judgment or order on them in the court in which the case or proceeding is pending without having the matter transferred to the court of the acting judge.  The judge in whose court the matter is pending may proceed to hear, complete, and determine the matter or all or any part of any other matter and may render final judgment on it.  Any of the judges of the courts may issue restraining orders and injunctions returnable to any of the other courts.  This subsection does not limit the powers of the judges when acting for any other judge by exchange of benches or otherwise.
(d)  The terms of the 8th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January and July.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.109. 9th Judicial District (Montgomery County)

Sec. 24.109.  9TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (MONTGOMERY COUNTY).  (a)  The 9th Judicial District is composed of Montgomery County.
(b)   The terms of the 9th District Court begin on the first Monday in January and the first Monday in July.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 704, Sec. 1, eff. Jan. 1, 1997;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1308, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1342 (S.B. 1951), Sec. 9(b), eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.110. 410th Judicial District (Montgomery County)

Sec. 24.110.  410TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (MONTGOMERY COUNTY).  (a)  The 410th Judicial District is composed of Montgomery County.
(b)  The terms of the 410th District Court begin on the first Monday in January and the first Monday in July.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 704, Sec. 2, eff. Jan. 1, 1997.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 657 (H.B. 3199), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.111. 10th Judicial District (Galveston County)

Sec. 24.111.  10TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (GALVESTON COUNTY).  (a)  The 10th Judicial District is composed of Galveston County.
(b)  The terms of the 10th and 56th district courts begin on the first Mondays in January and July.
(c)  In all suits, actions, or proceedings in the district courts in Galveston County, it is sufficient for the address or designation to be the "District Court of Galveston County."
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.113. 12th Judicial District (Grimes, Madison, and Walker Counties)

Sec. 24.113.  12TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (GRIMES, MADISON, AND WALKER COUNTIES).   The 12th Judicial District is composed of Grimes, Madison, and Walker counties.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
Amended by:
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1059 (H.B. 3153), Sec. 1.01(a), eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.114. 13th Judicial District (Navarro County)

Sec. 24.114.  13TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (NAVARRO COUNTY).  (a)  The 13th Judicial District is composed of Navarro County.
(b)  In addition to other jurisdiction provided by law, each district court in Navarro County has the civil jurisdiction of a county court.
(c)  The terms of the 13th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January, April, July, and October.
(d)  The judge of the 13th District Court shall impanel grand juries at the April and October terms and at any other terms as ordered by the judge.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.115. 14th Judicial District (Dallas County)

Sec. 24.115.  14TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (DALLAS COUNTY).  (a)  The 14th Judicial District is composed of Dallas County.
(b)  The terms of the 14th District Court begin on the second Mondays in January, April, July, and October.
(c)  Except for Subsection (b), which applies only to the 14th District Court, this section applies to the 14th, 44th, 68th, 95th, 101st, 116th, 134th, 160th, and 162nd district courts, the Criminal Judicial District of Dallas County, and the Criminal Judicial Districts Nos. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 of Dallas County.
(d)  The district courts and criminal district courts having jurisdiction in Dallas County have concurrent jurisdiction.
(e)  The judges of the district and criminal district courts of Dallas County shall, by agreement among themselves, take vacations so that there are at all times at least three judges of those courts in the county.
(f)  Repealed by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 90, Sec. 3, eff. Aug. 30, 1993.
(g)  The Dallas County sheriff or the sheriff's deputy shall attend the courts when required by law or by the judge.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 2, Sec. 8.44(2), eff. Aug. 28, 1989;  Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 90, Sec. 3, eff. Aug. 30, 1993.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 1352 (S.B. 1189), Sec. 13(a), eff. September 1, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.116. 15th Judicial District (Grayson County)

Sec. 24.116.  15TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (GRAYSON COUNTY).  (a)  The 15th Judicial District is composed of Grayson County.
(b)  The 15th and 59th judicial districts have concurrent jurisdiction in Grayson County.
(c)  The terms of the 15th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January and July.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 610 (H.B. 2174), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.117. 16th Judicial District (Denton County)

Sec. 24.117.  16TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (DENTON COUNTY).  (a)  The 16th Judicial District is composed of Denton County.
(b)  The terms of the 16th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January and July of each year.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 649, Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.118. 17th Judicial District (Tarrant County)

Sec. 24.118.  17TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (TARRANT COUNTY).  (a)  The 17th Judicial District is composed of Tarrant County.
(b)  The 17th, 48th, 67th, 96th, and 153rd district courts have concurrent jurisdiction in Tarrant County.
(c)  The terms of the 17th and 96th district courts begin on the first Mondays in January, April, July, and October.
(d)  The 17th District Court shall give preference to civil matters.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 580 (S.B. 2454), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.119. 18th Judicial District (Johnson and Somervell Counties)

Sec. 24.119.  18TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (JOHNSON AND SOMERVELL COUNTIES).  (a)  The 18th Judicial District is composed of Johnson and Somervell counties.
(b)  The terms of the 18th District Court in each county in the district begin on the first Mondays in January and July.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.27(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.120. 19th Judicial District (Mclennan County)

Sec. 24.120.  19TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (MCLENNAN COUNTY).  (a)  The 19th Judicial District is composed of McLennan County.
(b)  The 19th, 54th, 74th, 170th, 414th, and 474th district courts have concurrent jurisdiction in McLennan County.
(b-1)  The 19th District Court has concurrent jurisdiction with the county court and the statutory county courts of McLennan County in misdemeanor cases as well as the jurisdiction prescribed by general law for district courts.
(c)  The terms of the 19th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January, March, May, July, September, and November.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 848 (S.B. 2230), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 934 (H.B. 3774), Sec. 1.08(a), eff. October 1, 2022.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.121. 20th Judicial District (Milam County)

Sec. 24.121.  20TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (MILAM COUNTY).  (a)  The 20th Judicial District is composed of Milam County.
(b)  The terms of the 20th District Court begin on the third Mondays in January, May, and September.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.122. 21st Judicial District (Bastrop, Burleson, Lee, and Washington Counties)

Sec. 24.122.  21ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT (BASTROP, BURLESON, LEE, AND WASHINGTON COUNTIES).  (a)  The 21st Judicial District is composed of Bastrop, Burleson, Lee, and Washington counties.
(b)  The terms of the 21st District Court begin:
(1)  in Bastrop County on the second Tuesday in January and the 15th Tuesday after the first Tuesday in March;
(2)  in Burleson County on the 10th Tuesdays after the first Tuesdays in March and September;
(3)  in Lee County on the sixth Tuesdays after the first Tuesdays in March and September;  and
(4)  in Washington County on the first Tuesdays in March and September.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.123. 22nd Judicial District (Caldwell, Comal, and Hays Counties)

Sec. 24.123.  22ND JUDICIAL DISTRICT (CALDWELL, COMAL, AND HAYS COUNTIES).  (a)  The 22nd Judicial District is composed of Caldwell, Comal, and Hays counties.
(b)  In addition to other jurisdiction provided by law, each district court in Comal County has the civil and criminal jurisdiction of a county court.
(c)  The terms of the 22nd District Court begin:
(1)  in Caldwell County on the first Mondays in March, June, September, and December;
(2)  in Comal County on the first Mondays in April, July, October, and January;  and
(3)  in Hays County on the first Mondays in February, May, August, and November.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.125. 24th Judicial District (Calhoun, Dewitt, Goliad, Jackson, Refugio, and Victoria Counties)

Sec. 24.125.  24TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (CALHOUN, DEWITT, GOLIAD, JACKSON, REFUGIO, AND VICTORIA COUNTIES).  (a)  The 24th Judicial District is composed of Calhoun, DeWitt, Goliad, Jackson, Refugio, and Victoria counties.
(b)  The terms of the 24th District Court begin:
(1)  in Calhoun County on the fourth Mondays in April and October;
(2)  in DeWitt County on the second Mondays in January and July;
(3)  in Goliad County on the first Mondays in February and August;
(4)  in Jackson County on the fourth Mondays in January and July;
(5)  in Refugio County on the third Mondays in April and October;  and
(6)  in Victoria County on the second Mondays in March and September.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.126. 25th Judicial District (Colorado, Gonzales, Guadalupe, and Lavaca Counties)

Sec. 24.126.  25TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (COLORADO, GONZALES, GUADALUPE, AND LAVACA COUNTIES).  (a)  The 25th Judicial District is composed of Colorado, Gonzales, Guadalupe, and Lavaca counties.
(b)  The 25th District Court has concurrent jurisdiction with the Second 25th District Court.
(c)  The terms of the 25th District Court begin:
(1)  in Colorado County on the first Mondays in February and September;
(2)  in Gonzales County on the first Mondays in January and June;
(3)  in Guadalupe County on the first Mondays in March and October;  and
(4)  in Lavaca County on the first Mondays in April and November.
(d)  The judges of the 25th and Second 25th judicial districts may hear and dispose of any suit or proceeding on either court's docket without transferring the suit or proceeding.  The judges may transfer cases from one court to the other by an order entered on the docket of the court from which the matter was transferred.  A case may not be transferred without the permission of the judge of the court to which the case is to be transferred.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.127. Second 25th Judicial District (Colorado, Gonzales, Guadalupe, and Lavaca Counties)

Sec. 24.127.  SECOND 25TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (COLORADO, GONZALES, GUADALUPE, AND LAVACA COUNTIES).  (a)  The Second 25th Judicial District is composed of Colorado, Gonzales, Guadalupe, and Lavaca counties.
(b)  The terms of the Second 25th District Court begin:
(1)  in Colorado County on the first Mondays in April and November;
(2)  in Gonzales County on the first Mondays in May and December;
(3)  in Guadalupe County on the first Mondays in February and September;  and
(4)  in Lavaca County on the first Mondays in January and June.
(c)  Section 24.126, relating to the 25th District Court, contains provisions applicable to both that court and the Second 25th District Court.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.128. 26th Judicial District (Williamson County)

Sec. 24.128.  26TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (WILLIAMSON COUNTY).  (a)  The 26th Judicial District is composed of Williamson County.
(b)  The terms of the 26th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January and July.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 530, Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 1991;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 363, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 28, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.130. 28th Judicial District (Nueces County)

Sec. 24.130.  28TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (NUECES COUNTY).  (a)  The 28th Judicial District is composed of Nueces County.
(b)  The 28th District Court has concurrent jurisdiction with the 94th and 117th district courts in Nueces County.
(c)  The terms of the 28th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January and July.  The terms are designated the January-July and July-January terms.
(d)  In addition to other jurisdiction provided by law, the 28th District Court has concurrent jurisdiction with the county courts at law in Nueces County to receive a guilty plea in a misdemeanor case pending in a county court at law in Nueces County and dispose of the case, regardless of whether the case is transferred to the district court.  The judgment, order, or action of the district court is valid and binding as if the case were pending in the district court.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 24.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 72 (H.B. 2913), Sec. 1, eff. May 17, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.131. 29th Judicial District (Palo Pinto County)

Sec. 24.131.  29TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (PALO PINTO COUNTY).  (a)  The 29th Judicial District is composed of Palo Pinto County.
(b)  The terms of the 29th District Court begin on the first Monday in March, the first Monday after the third Saturday in June, and the first Monday after the fourth Saturday in October.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.132. 30th Judicial District (Wichita County)

Sec. 24.132.  30TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (WICHITA COUNTY).  (a)  The 30th Judicial District is composed of Wichita County.
(b)  In addition to other jurisdiction prescribed by law, each district court in Wichita County has the civil jurisdiction of a county court.
(c)  The terms of the 30th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January and July.
(d)  The 30th, 78th, and 89th district courts in Wichita County have concurrent jurisdiction.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.133. 31st Judicial District (Gray, Hemphill, Lipscomb, Roberts, and Wheeler Counties)

Sec. 24.133.  31ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT (GRAY, HEMPHILL, LIPSCOMB, ROBERTS, AND WHEELER COUNTIES).  (a)  The 31st Judicial District is composed of Gray, Hemphill, Lipscomb, Roberts, and Wheeler counties.
(b)  The terms of the 31st District Court begin:
(1)  in Gray County on the first Mondays in January and July;
(2)  in Hemphill County on the second Monday in April and the first Monday in November;
(3)  in Lipscomb County on the fourth Monday in March and the second Monday in September;
(4)  in Roberts County on the second Monday in March and the fourth Monday in August;  and
(5)  in Wheeler County on the fourth Mondays in April and November.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.134. 32nd Judicial District (Fisher, Mitchell, and Nolan Counties)

Sec. 24.134.  32ND JUDICIAL DISTRICT (FISHER, MITCHELL, AND NOLAN COUNTIES).  (a)  The 32nd Judicial District is composed of Fisher, Mitchell, and Nolan counties.
(b)  The terms of the 32nd District Court in each county in the district begin on the first Mondays in January, May, and September.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 34, Sec. 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2002.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.135. 33rd Judicial District (Blanco, Burnet, Llano, and San Saba Counties)

Sec. 24.135.  33RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT (BLANCO, BURNET, LLANO, AND SAN SABA COUNTIES).  (a)  The 33rd Judicial District is composed of Blanco, Burnet, Llano, and San Saba counties.
(b)  The terms of the 33rd District Court begin:
(1)  in Blanco County on the first Mondays in February and September;
(2)  in Burnet County on the fourth Mondays in April and November;
(3)  in Llano County on the first Mondays in April and November;  and
(4)  in San Saba County on the second Mondays in March and October.
(c)  The judge of the 33rd District Court may impanel grand juries in each county.  The judge of the 33rd District Court may alternate the drawing of grand juries with the judge of any other district court in each county within the 33rd Judicial District and may order grand and petit juries to be drawn for any term of the court as the judge determines is necessary, by an order entered in the minutes of the court.  Indictments within each county may be returned to either court within that county.
(d)  The 33rd District Court may hear and determine, in any county in the district convenient for the court, all preliminary or interlocutory matters in which a jury may not be demanded, in any case pending in any county in the district regardless of whether the case was filed in the county in which the hearing is held.  Unless an objection is filed by a party to the suit, the 33rd District Court may hear, in any county in the district convenient for the court, any nonjury case pending in any county in the district, including divorces, adoptions, default judgments, and matters in which citation was by publication, regardless of whether the case was filed in the county in which the hearing is held.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.08(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 623, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 1352 (S.B. 1189), Sec. 14, eff. September 1, 2005.
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 929 (H.B. 2150), Sec. 13, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.136. 34th Judicial District (El Paso County)

Sec. 24.136.  34TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (EL PASO COUNTY).  (a)  The 34th Judicial District is composed of El Paso County.
(b)  In El Paso County, the 34th, 41st, 65th, 120th, and 171st district courts have concurrent jurisdiction.
(c)  The terms of the 34th District Court begin on the third Mondays in April and September and the first Mondays in January, July, and November.
(d)  A grand jury may not be impaneled in any district court in El Paso County except the 34th District Court unless the judge of another district court in the county calls for a grand jury by special order.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 704, Sec. 17, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.137. 35th Judicial District (Brown and Mills Counties)

Sec. 24.137.  35TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (BROWN AND MILLS COUNTIES).  (a)  The 35th Judicial District is composed of Brown and Mills counties.
(b)  In addition to other jurisdiction provided by law, each district court in Mills County has the civil jurisdiction of a county court.
(c)  The terms of the 35th District Court begin:
(1)  in Brown County on the first Mondays in February, June, and November;  and
(2)  in Mills County on the first Mondays in January, May, and October.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.09(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.138. 36th Judicial District (Aransas, Bee, Live Oak, Mcmullen, and San Patricio Counties)

Sec. 24.138.  36TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (ARANSAS, BEE, LIVE OAK, MCMULLEN, AND SAN PATRICIO COUNTIES).  (a)  The 36th Judicial District is composed of Aransas, Bee, Live Oak, McMullen, and San Patricio counties.
(b)  The terms of the 36th District Court begin:
(1)  in Aransas County on the fourth Mondays in April and October;
(2)  in Bee County on the first Mondays in April and October;
(3)  in Live Oak County on the third Mondays in April and October;
(4)  in McMullen County on the second Mondays in January and July;  and
(5)  in San Patricio County on the second Mondays in April and October.
(c)  Each of the judges of the district courts in Aransas, Bee, Live Oak, McMullen, and San Patricio counties shall sign the minutes of each term of his court in each of the counties not later than the 30th day after the end of the term and shall also sign the minutes of the other courts covering the proceedings that were held before him.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 196, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.140. 38th Judicial District (Real and Uvalde Counties)

Sec. 24.140.  38TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (REAL AND UVALDE COUNTIES).   The 38th Judicial District is composed of Real and Uvalde counties.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 1.03(a), eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.141. 39th Judicial District (Haskell, Kent, Stonewall, and Throckmorton Counties)

Sec. 24.141.  39TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (HASKELL, KENT, STONEWALL, AND THROCKMORTON COUNTIES).  (a)  The 39th Judicial District is composed of Haskell, Kent, Stonewall, and Throckmorton counties.
(b)  The terms of the 39th District Court begin:
(1)  in Haskell County on the first Monday in January, the 15th Monday after the first Monday in January, and the third Monday after the first Monday in September;
(2)  in Kent County on the ninth Monday after the first Monday in January and the first Monday in September;
(3)  in Stonewall County on the 6th and 20th Mondays after the first Monday in January and the ninth Monday after the first Monday in September;  and
(4)  in Throckmorton County on the 12th and 23rd Mondays after the first Monday in January and the 12th Monday after the first Monday in September.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.142. 40th Judicial District (Ellis County)

Sec. 24.142.  40TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (ELLIS COUNTY).  (a)  The 40th Judicial District is composed of Ellis County.
(b)  The terms of the 40th District Court begin on the first Mondays in March, June, September, and December.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.143. 41st Judicial District (El Paso County)

Sec. 24.143.  41ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT (EL PASO COUNTY).  (a)  The 41st Judicial District is composed of El Paso County.
(b)  The terms of the 41st District Court begin on the first Mondays in January, March, May, September, and November.
(c)  Section 24.136, relating to the 34th District Court, contains provisions applicable to both that court and the 41st District Court.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.144. 42nd Judicial District (Callahan, Coleman, and Taylor Counties)

Sec. 24.144.  42ND JUDICIAL DISTRICT (CALLAHAN, COLEMAN, AND TAYLOR COUNTIES).  (a)  The 42nd Judicial District is composed of Callahan, Coleman, and Taylor counties.
(b)  The 42nd District Court has concurrent jurisdiction with the 104th District Court in Taylor County.
(c)  The terms of the 42nd District Court begin:
(1)  in Callahan County on the first Mondays in January and July;
(2)  in Coleman County on the first Mondays in January and July;  and
(3)  in Taylor County on the first Monday in January, on the 15th Monday after the first Monday in January, and on the first Monday in September.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1385, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.145. 43rd Judicial District (Parker County)

Sec. 24.145.  43RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT (PARKER COUNTY).  (a)  The 43rd Judicial District is composed of Parker County.
(b)  The terms of the 43rd District Court begin on the first Mondays in January and July.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.146. 44th Judicial District (Dallas County)

Sec. 24.146.  44TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (DALLAS COUNTY).  (a)  The 44th Judicial District is composed of Dallas County.
(b)  The terms of the 44th District Court begin on the first Mondays in January, April, June, and October.
(c)  Section 24.115, relating to the 14th District Court, contains provisions applicable to both that court and the 44th District Court.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.147. 45th Judicial District (Bexar County)

Sec. 24.147.  45TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (BEXAR COUNTY).  (a)  The 45th Judicial District is composed of Bexar County.
(b)  Section 24.139, relating to the 37th District Court, contains provisions applicable to both that court and the 45th District Court.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle A - Courts › Chapter 24 - District Courts › Subchapter B. Certain Judicial Districts › Section 24.148. 46th Judicial District (Foard, Hardeman, and Wilbarger Counties)

Sec. 24.148.  46TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (FOARD, HARDEMAN, AND WILBARGER COUNTIES).  (a)  The 46th Judicial District is composed of Foard, Hardeman, and Wilbarger counties.
(b)  The terms of the 46th District Court begin:
(1)  in Foard County on the 6th, 17th, and 36th Mondays after the first Monday in January;
(2)  in Hardeman County on the 8th, 19th, 38th, and 47th Mondays after the first Monday in January;  and
(3)  in Wilbarger County on the first Monday in January and the 11th, 22nd, and 41st Mondays after the first Monday in January.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.