reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle E - Juries › Chapter 62 - Petit Juries › Subchapter D. County Court and Justice Court Juries › Section 62.302. Drawing Names for Jury Service in Certain County Courts

Sec. 62.302.  DRAWING NAMES FOR JURY SERVICE IN CERTAIN COUNTY COURTS.  (a)  The county judge or a judge of a county court at law may order the drawing of names from the jury wheel if the judge considers the number of prospective jurors already drawn to be insufficient or if an interchangeable general jury panel is not drawn as provided by Section 62.016, 62.017, or 62.0175.
(b)  The prospective jurors whose names are drawn as provided by this section are available for service in the county court or county courts at law, as applicable, and for the period of time reasonably required for the trials in the applicable kind of court.
(c)  The county judge and a judge of a county court at law concurrently have the same power to determine and remedy a deficiency in the number of prospective jurors as the district judge designated to control a general jury panel as provided by Section 62.016, 62.017, or 62.0175.  Except as otherwise provided by this section, the applicable general provisions in Subchapter A that govern the drawing of names of prospective jurors by the district judge govern the drawing of names under this section.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 1114 (H.B. 2414), Sec. 3, eff. June 18, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle E - Juries › Chapter 62 - Petit Juries › Subchapter E. Justice Court Juries › Section 62.411. Justice Court Rules

Sec. 62.411.  JUSTICE COURT RULES.  (a)  In addition to other methods of jury selection provided by this chapter, a justice of the peace may issue a writ commanding the clerk, sheriff, or constable to immediately summon a venire from which six qualified persons may be selected for jury service if:
(1)  a jury case is pending for trial at a term of justice court; or
(2)  the court does not have a sufficient number of prospective jurors present whose names are on the jury list and who are not excused from jury service.
(b)  Jurors who are empaneled shall remain in attendance in the court and, until discharged by the court, may serve as jurors in any case before the court.
(c)  This section applies only in a county with a population of more than 2.8 million.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 819, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 861 (H.B. 3474), Sec. 8.025, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle E - Juries › Chapter 62 - Petit Juries › Subchapter E. Justice Court Juries › Section 62.412. Summoning Prospective Jurors Directly to Justice Court

Sec. 62.412.  SUMMONING PROSPECTIVE JURORS DIRECTLY TO JUSTICE COURT.  (a)  A county that uses interchangeable juries under Section 62.016 may summon a prospective juror to report directly to a justice court in the precinct in which that person resides.
(a-1)  A county described by Subsection (a) with a population of 3.3 million or more may also summon a prospective juror to report directly to a justice court in the precinct adjacent to the precinct in which that person resides.
(b)  The justice of the peace of the justice court to which prospective jurors are summoned for jury service under this section shall hear the excuses of the prospective jurors and swear them in for jury service.
(c)  A justice of the peace may command the clerk, sheriff, or constable to immediately summon additional persons for jury service in the justice court if the number of qualified jurors, including persons summoned under Section 62.016, is less than the number necessary for the justice court to conduct its proceedings.
Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 838, Sec. 2, eff. June 18, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 141 (S.B. 1274), Sec. 1, eff. May 23, 2009.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 861 (H.B. 3474), Sec. 8.026, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle E - Juries › Chapter 62 - Petit Juries › Subchapter F. Municipal Court Juries › Section 62.501. Qualification

Sec. 62.501.  QUALIFICATION.  To be eligible to serve on a jury of a municipal court, including a municipal court of record, a person must be resident of the municipality for which the court is established.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 71.001. Definitions

Sec. 71.001.  DEFINITIONS.  In this chapter:
(1)   "Chair" means the chair of the council.
(2)  "Council" means the Texas Judicial Council.
(3)  "Defendant" means a person accused of a crime or juvenile offense, as those terms are defined by Section 79.001.
(4)  "Public defender's office" has the meaning assigned by Article 26.044(a), Code of Criminal Procedure.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1408, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 906, Sec. 12, eff. Jan. 1, 2002.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 855 (H.B. 1265), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2007.
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 984 (H.B. 1754), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 71.011. Number and Classes of Members

Sec. 71.011.  NUMBER AND CLASSES OF MEMBERS.  The Texas Judicial Council is an agency of the state composed of 16 ex officio and six appointive members.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1408, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 71.012. Ex Officio Members

Sec. 71.012.  EX OFFICIO MEMBERS.  The ex officio members are:
(1)  the chief justice of the supreme court;
(2)  the presiding judge of the court of criminal appeals;
(3)  two members of the senate, appointed by the lieutenant governor;
(4)  the chair of the House Judicial Affairs Committee;
(5)  one member of the house of representatives, appointed by the speaker of the house;
(6)  two justices of the courts of appeals designated by the chief justice of the supreme court;
(7)  two district judges designated by the chief justice of the supreme court;
(8)  two judges of county courts, statutory county, or statutory probate courts designated by the chief justice of the supreme court;
(9)  two justices of the peace designated by the chief justice of the supreme court;  and
(10)  two municipal court judges designated by the chief justice of the supreme court.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 2, Sec. 8.44(13), eff. Aug. 28, 1989;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1408, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1328, Sec. 2, eff. June 21, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 71.013. Terms of Ex Officio Members; Delegation of Functions

Sec. 71.013.  TERMS OF EX OFFICIO MEMBERS;  DELEGATION OF FUNCTIONS.  (a)  The chief justice of the supreme court and the presiding judge of the court of criminal appeals are members of the council as long as they hold those offices.
(b)  Except as provided by Subsection (a), all members of the judiciary appointed to the council serve staggered terms of four years with the term of one member from each judicial group expiring on February 1 of each odd-numbered year.
(c)  A legislative member whose membership in the legislature ceases continues as a member of the council at the pleasure of the appointing authority.
(d)  A vacancy in a judicial membership must be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment.
(e)  A judicial or legislative member of the council serves until his successor is chosen and has qualified.
(f)  The chief justice of the supreme court and the presiding judge of the court of criminal appeals may each designate a member of his court to act in his stead under this chapter.  The designated person serves at the will of the official who chose him for service.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 2, Sec. 8.44(14), eff. Aug. 28, 1989;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1408, Sec. 4, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 71.014. Citizen Members

Sec. 71.014.  CITIZEN MEMBERS.  (a)  The governor shall appoint the six citizen members on the council.
(b)  A citizen member must be a resident citizen of the state.  Three of the six citizen members must be members of the State Bar of Texas and two must be persons who are not licensed to practice law.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1408, Sec. 5, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 71.015. Terms of Citizen Members

Sec. 71.015.  TERMS OF CITIZEN MEMBERS.  (a)  Citizen members serve for staggered terms of six years with two members' terms expiring on June 30 of each odd-numbered year.
(b)  A vacancy in citizen membership is filled for the unexpired term by appointment by the governor.
(c)  A citizen member serves on the council until his successor is appointed and has qualified.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1408, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 71.016. Meetings

Sec. 71.016.  MEETINGS.  (a)  The council shall meet at least once in each calendar year and may meet at other times as ordered by the council or under its authority.
(b)  The council may meet at a place and time designated by it or under its authority.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 71.017. Quorum

Sec. 71.017.  QUORUM.  Eleven members of the council constitute a quorum.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1408, Sec. 7, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 71.018. Officers; Committees

Sec. 71.018.  OFFICERS;  COMMITTEES.  (a)  The chief justice of the supreme court shall serve as chair and the presiding judge of the court of criminal appeals shall serve as vice chair of the council.  Other officers of the council shall be elected by the council.
(b)  The council may prescribe the duties of an officer of the council.
(c)  The council may appoint committees from its membership.  It may prescribe the duties of and delegate powers under this chapter to a committee except as otherwise limited by this chapter.
(d)  The chair may appoint committees for two-year terms that he considers necessary for the organization of the council.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1408, Sec. 8, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 71.019. Rules

Sec. 71.019.  RULES.  The council may adopt rules expedient for the administration of its functions.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 71.020. Expenses

Sec. 71.020.  EXPENSES.  (a)  A member of the council may not receive compensation for service on the council.
(b)  A member is entitled to reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses incurred in performing the duties of the council and approved for payment as provided by this section.
(c)  The council, its officers, and its committees are entitled to reimbursement for the actual and necessary clerical expenses incurred in performing functions under this chapter and approved for payment as provided by this section.
(d)  Before any expenses incurred by the council, its members or officers, or its committees may be paid, the chair of the council or the vice chair, if authorized by the chair in writing to do so, must approve a verified and itemized account of the expenses.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1408, Sec. 9, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.031. Continuous Study

Sec. 71.031.  CONTINUOUS STUDY.  The council continuously shall study the organization, rules, procedures and practice, work accomplished, results, and uniformity of the discretionary powers of the state courts and methods for their improvement.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.032. Receipt of Advice on Remedies

Sec. 71.032.  RECEIPT OF ADVICE ON REMEDIES.  The council shall receive and consider advice from judges, public officials, members of the bar, and citizens concerning remedies for faults in the administration of justice.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.033. Methods for Improvement

Sec. 71.033.  METHODS FOR IMPROVEMENT.  The council shall design methods for simplifying judicial procedure, expediting the transaction of judicial business, and correcting faults in or improving the administration of justice.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.034. Reports; Investigations

Sec. 71.034.  REPORTS;  INVESTIGATIONS.  (a)  The council shall file a complete detailed report with the governor and the supreme court before December 2 of each year on council activities, information from the council's study, and council recommendations.
(b)  The council may file a supplemental report on council activities, findings, or recommendations at a time it considers advisable.
(c)  The council shall investigate and report on a matter concerning the administration of justice that the supreme court or the legislature refers to the council.
(d)  The yearly or supplemental reports of the council are public information and may be given to the press when filed.
Text of subsection effective until January 01, 2025
(e)  In addition to the information described by Subsection (a), the council shall include in the report a summary of information provided to the council during the preceding year under Articles 2.211 and 2.212, Code of Criminal Procedure.
Text of subsection effective on January 01, 2025
(e)  In addition to the information described by Subsection (a), the council shall include in the report a summary of information provided to the council during the preceding year under Articles 2A.211 and 2A.212, Code of Criminal Procedure.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 85, Sec. 4.02, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 292 (S.B. 291), Sec. 8, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 2.072, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.0351. Bail and Pretrial Release Information

Sec. 71.0351.  BAIL AND PRETRIAL RELEASE INFORMATION.  (a)  As a component of the official monthly report submitted to the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System under Section 71.035, the clerk of each court setting bail in criminal cases shall report:
(1)  the number of defendants for whom bail was set after arrest, including:
(A)  the number for each category of offense;
(B)  the number of personal bonds; and
(C)  the number of surety or cash bonds;
(2)  the number of defendants released on bail who subsequently failed to appear;
(3)  the number of defendants released on bail who subsequently violated a condition of release; and
(4)  the number of defendants who committed an offense while released on bail or community supervision.
(b)  The office shall post the information in a publicly accessible place on the agency's Internet website without disclosing any personal information of any defendant, judge, or magistrate.
(c)  Not later than December 1 of each year, the office shall submit a report containing the data collected under this section during the preceding state fiscal year to the governor, lieutenant governor, speaker of the house of representatives, and presiding officers of the standing committees of each house of the legislature with primary jurisdiction over the judiciary.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., 2nd C.S., Ch. 11 (S.B. 6), Sec. 16, eff. January 1, 2022.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.0352. Juvenile Data: Justice, Municipal, and Truancy Courts

Sec. 71.0352.  JUVENILE DATA: JUSTICE, MUNICIPAL, AND TRUANCY COURTS.  As a component of the official monthly report submitted to the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System:
(1)  a justice court, municipal court, or truancy court shall report the number of cases filed for:
(A)  truant conduct under Section 65.003(a), Family Code; and
(B)  the offense of parent contributing to nonattendance under Section 25.093, Education Code; and
Text of subdivision effective until January 01, 2025
(2)  in cases in which a child fails to obey an order of a justice court, municipal court, or truancy court under circumstances that would constitute contempt of court, the justice court, municipal court, or truancy court shall report the number of incidents in which the child is:
(A)  referred to the appropriate juvenile court for delinquent conduct as provided by Article 45.050(c)(1), Code of Criminal Procedure, or Section 65.251, Family Code; or
(B)  held in contempt, fined, or denied driving privileges as provided by Article 45.050(c)(2), Code of Criminal Procedure, or Section 65.251, Family Code.
Text of subdivision effective on January 01, 2025
(2)  in cases in which a child fails to obey an order of a justice court, municipal court, or truancy court under circumstances that would constitute contempt of court, the justice court, municipal court, or truancy court shall report the number of incidents in which the child is:
(A)  referred to the appropriate juvenile court for delinquent conduct as provided by Article 45A.461(c)(1), Code of Criminal Procedure, or Section 65.251, Family Code; or
(B)  held in contempt, fined, or denied driving privileges as provided by Article 45A.461(c)(2), Code of Criminal Procedure, or Section 65.251, Family Code.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 283, Sec. 43, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 935 (H.B. 2398), Sec. 36, eff. September 1, 2015.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 425 (H.B. 1819), Sec. 5, eff. September 1, 2023.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 2.073, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.0353. Trafficking of Persons Information

Sec. 71.0353.  TRAFFICKING OF PERSONS INFORMATION.  (a)  As a component of the official monthly report submitted to the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System, a district court or county court at law shall report the number of cases filed for the following offenses:
(1)  trafficking of persons under Section 20A.02, Penal Code;
(2)  prostitution under Section 43.02, Penal Code;
(3)  solicitation of prostitution under Section 43.021, Penal Code; and
(4)  compelling prostitution under Section 43.05, Penal Code.
(b)  A district or county court at law shall provide a copy of the report required under Subsection (a) to the attorney general.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 515 (H.B. 2014), Sec. 3.01, eff. September 1, 2011.
Amended by:
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 807 (H.B. 1540), Sec. 40, eff. September 1, 2021.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 856 (S.B. 800), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.036. Public Hearings

Sec. 71.036.  PUBLIC HEARINGS.  (a)  The council may appoint a committee of at least three members to hold a public hearing.
(b)  The committee may:
(1)  order the production of books or other documents;
(2)  require a report from a state court, including a court that is not a court of record;
(3)  administer oaths;  or
(4)  take testimony.
(c)  An officer of the council, either prior to or while sitting at a hearing, or a member of the council sitting at a hearing may issue a subpoena or similar order to a prospective witness under his official signature.
(d)  The subpoena or similar order may be served by registered or certified mail or by an adult person.
(e)  If a witness fails to comply with a subpoena or similar order issued as provided by this section, the council or its committee holding the hearing may request in writing that a district judge of the county of residence of the witness enforce its subpoena or similar order.  When requested to enforce a subpoena or order as provided by this section, the district judge shall order compliance with the council's order by the same means that the judge may compel the appearance and testimony of witnesses in a trial in his own court.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.037. Specialty Court Best Practices

Sec. 71.037.  SPECIALTY COURT BEST PRACTICES.  The council shall review and as appropriate approve recommendations made by the Specialty Courts Advisory Council under Section 772.0061(b)(2).
Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 747 (S.B. 462), Sec. 2.06, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.038. Regional Information

Sec. 71.038.  REGIONAL INFORMATION.  The council shall collect judicial statistics and other pertinent information from the presiding judges of each administrative judicial region in this state regarding the amount and character of any business transacted by the presiding judges.  As a duty of office, the presiding judges shall report monthly any information required by the council under this section.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 954 (S.B. 1893), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 71 - Texas Judicial Council › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 71.039. Procedures for Issuance of Marriage License Through Remote Technology

Sec. 71.039.  PROCEDURES FOR ISSUANCE OF MARRIAGE LICENSE THROUGH REMOTE TECHNOLOGY.  The council, in consultation with the Department of State Health Services, by rule shall develop and implement a voluntary certification process under which a county clerk may be certified to issue a marriage license to applicants through the use of remote technology in accordance with procedures adopted by the council.  The procedures adopted by the council must ensure sufficient verification of each applicant's age and identity to prevent fraud.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 857 (S.B. 907), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 72.001. Definitions

Sec. 72.001.  DEFINITIONS.  In this chapter:
(1)  "Court" means any tribunal forming a part of the judiciary.
(2)  "Director" means the administrative director of the courts appointed as provided by this chapter.
(3)  "Office" means the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System.
(4)  "Trial court" means any tribunal forming a part of the judiciary, except the supreme court, the court of criminal appeals, and the courts of appeals, but does not include the commissioners court of a county.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.83(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 72.002. Effect on Judicial Discretion

Sec. 72.002.  EFFECT ON JUDICIAL DISCRETION.  This chapter or a rule adopted by the supreme court under Section 74.024 does not authorize an infringement of the judicial discretion of a judge in the trying of a case properly before his court.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.84(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987;  Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 646, Sec. 5, eff. Aug. 28, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 72.011. Office of Court Administration

Sec. 72.011.  OFFICE OF COURT ADMINISTRATION.  (a)  The office of court administration is an agency of the state and operates under the direction and supervision of the supreme court and the chief justice of the supreme court.
(b)  The office shall exercise the powers and perform the duties or functions imposed on the office by this chapter or the supreme court.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.85(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 72.012. Director

Sec. 72.012.  DIRECTOR.  (a)  The director shall:
(1)  implement this chapter and direct the operations of the office of court administration;  and
(2)  as an additional duty of his office, serve as the executive director of the Texas Judicial Council.
(b)  The director shall devote full time to his official duties.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.86(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 72.014. Certification Division

Sec. 72.014.  CERTIFICATION DIVISION.  The office shall establish a certification division to oversee the regulatory programs assigned to the office by law or by the supreme court.  Fees collected under Section 51.008 may be appropriated to the office to support the certification division.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 4 (S.B. 1), Sec. 39.01, eff. September 28, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 72.015. Judicial Security Division

Sec. 72.015.  JUDICIAL SECURITY DIVISION.  (a)  The office shall establish a judicial security division to provide guidance to state court personnel on improving security for each court.
(b)  The office shall appoint a director of security and emergency preparedness to oversee the judicial security division.
(c)  The judicial security division shall:
(1)  serve as a central resource for information on local and national best practices for court security and the safety of court personnel;
(2)  provide an expert opinion on the technical aspects of court security; and
(3)  keep abreast of and provide training on recent court security improvements.
(d)  The director of security and emergency preparedness shall annually submit to the legislature:
(1)  a report on court security activities throughout the state supported by the judicial security division, including:
(A)  the technical aspects of providing court security;
(B)  court security training provided or required by the judicial security division;
(C)  sufficiency of judicial security division resources to evaluate and monitor court security; and
(D)  the adequacy of funding to maintain court security; and
(2)  recommendations for:
(A)  monitoring the use of state resources in providing court security;
(B)  improving court security; and
(C)  increasing the amount of state funds and other resources made available for court security.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 190 (S.B. 42), Sec. 8, eff. September 1, 2017.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 518 (S.B. 489), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter B. Administrative Provisions › Section 72.016. Notification Procedure for Judicial Privacy

Sec. 72.016.  NOTIFICATION PROCEDURE FOR JUDICIAL PRIVACY.  The director shall develop a procedure to regularly notify county registrars, the Department of Public Safety, the Texas Ethics Commission, and any other state agency the office determines should be notified of the judges, judges' spouses, and related family members whose personal information must be kept from public records, as provided under Sections 552.117 and 572.035 of this code, Sections 13.0021 and 15.0215, Election Code, and Section 521.121, Transportation Code.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 190 (S.B. 42), Sec. 8, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.021. Budget; Expenditures

Sec. 72.021.  BUDGET;  EXPENDITURES.  (a)  The director shall prepare and submit an estimated budget for the appropriation of funds necessary for the maintenance and operation of the judicial system.
(b)  The director shall study and recommend expenditures and savings of funds appropriated for the maintenance and operation of the judicial system.
(c)  The office may award a grant of money to a local or state governmental entity in the judicial branch of local or state government to fund programs that:
(1)  are approved by the Judicial Committee on Information Technology under Chapter 77; and
(2)  provide technological support for the judiciary.
(d)  At the end of each fiscal year, the office shall file with the Legislative Budget Board a report on the amount, recipient, and purpose for each grant awarded under Subsection (c).  All money expended under a grant awarded under Subsection (c) is subject to audit by the comptroller and the state auditor.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.87(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 73 (H.B. 368), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.022. Personnel

Sec. 72.022.  PERSONNEL.  (a)  The director, with the approval of the chief justice of the supreme court, shall employ the personnel needed to administer the office, including personnel needed for the Texas Judicial Council.
(b)  The office shall provide staff functions necessary for the efficient operation of the Texas Judicial Council.
(c)  This chapter does not limit the authority of a court to appoint clerical personnel.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.023. Consultation and Assistance

Sec. 72.023.  CONSULTATION AND ASSISTANCE.  (a)  The director shall assist the justices and judges in discharging their administrative duties.
(b)  The director shall consult with the regional presiding judges and local administrative judges and assist them in discharging duties imposed by law or by a rule adopted by the supreme court.
(c)  The director, to provide for the efficient administration of justice, shall consult with and assist:
(1)  court clerks;
(2)  other court officers or employees;  and
(3)  clerks or other officers or employees of offices related to and serving a court.
(d)  The director, to provide for uniform administration of the courts and efficient administration of justice, shall consult with and make recommendations to administrators and coordinators of the courts.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.88(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.024. Methods; Recommendations

Sec. 72.024.  METHODS;  RECOMMENDATIONS.  (a)  The director shall examine the judicial dockets, practices, and procedures of the courts and the administrative and business methods or systems used in the office of a clerk of a court or in an office related to and serving a court.
(b)  The director shall recommend:
(1)  a necessary improvement to a method or system;
(2)  a form or other document used to record judicial business;  or
(3)  any other change that will promote the efficient administration of justice.
(b-1)  The director shall develop standards for identifying courts that need additional assistance to promote the efficient administration of justice.
(c)  The director shall recommend to the supreme court appropriate means to implement this chapter.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.89(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 716 (H.B. 2384), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.025. Annual Report

Sec. 72.025.  ANNUAL REPORT.  (a)  The director shall prepare an annual report of the activities of the office.
(b)  The report must be published in the annual report of the Texas Judicial Council.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.026. Rules

Sec. 72.026.  RULES.  The director, under the supervision of the chief justice, shall implement a rule of administration or other rules adopted by the supreme court for the efficient administration of justice.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.90(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.027. Additional Duties

Sec. 72.027.  ADDITIONAL DUTIES.  The supreme court or the chief justice of the supreme court may assign the director duties in addition to those imposed by this chapter.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.91(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.028. Gifts, Grants, and Donations

Sec. 72.028.  GIFTS, GRANTS, AND DONATIONS.  (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (b), the office may request, accept, and administer gifts, grants, and donations from any source to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
(b)  The office may not request, accept, or administer a gift, grant, or donation from a law firm, an attorney, an employee of a law firm or attorney, or the spouse of an attorney or of an employee of a law firm or an attorney.
(c)  In this section, "law firm" means a partnership, limited liability partnership, or professional corporation organized for the private practice of law.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 183, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.029. Grants for Court System Enhancements

Sec. 72.029.  GRANTS FOR COURT SYSTEM ENHANCEMENTS.  (a)  The office shall develop and administer, except as provided by Subsection (c), a program to provide grants from available funds to counties for initiatives that will enhance their court systems or otherwise carry out the purposes of this chapter.
(b)  To be eligible for a grant under this section, a county must:
(1)  use the grant money to implement initiatives that will enhance the county's court system, including initiatives to develop programs to more efficiently manage cases that require special judicial attention, or otherwise carry out the purposes of this chapter; and
(2)  apply for the grant in accordance with procedures developed by the office and comply with any other requirements of the office.
(c)  The judicial committee for additional resources shall determine whether to award a grant to a county that meets the eligibility requirements prescribed by Subsection (b).
(d)  If the judicial committee for additional resources awards a grant to a county, the office shall:
(1)  direct the comptroller to distribute the grant money to the county; and
(2)  monitor the county's use of the grant money.
(e)  The office may accept gifts, grants, and donations for purposes of this section.  The office may not use state funds to provide a grant under this section or to administer the grant program.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 3 (H.B. 79), Sec. 8.01, eff. January 1, 2012.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.030. Collection of Data Relating to Judicial Turnover

Sec. 72.030.  COLLECTION OF DATA RELATING TO JUDICIAL TURNOVER.  (a)  The office biennially shall collect data relating to:
(1)  the rate at which state judges resign from office or do not seek reelection; and
(2)  the reason for action under Subdivision (1).
(b)  Not later than December 1 of each even-numbered year, the office shall file a report containing the data collected under Subsection (a) for the preceding state fiscal biennium with the governor, the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, and the presiding officers of the standing committees of each house of the legislature with jurisdiction over the judiciary or appropriations.
(c)  The report filed under Subsection (b) must include the following findings:
(1)  whether the compensation of state judges exceeds, is equal to, or is less than the compensation of judges at corresponding levels in the five states closest in population to this state; and
(2)  whether the compensation of state judges exceeds, is equal to, or is less than the average salary of lawyers engaged in the private practice of law.
(d)  The purpose of filing the report with the legislature is to provide the legislature with information to facilitate legislation that ensures that the compensation of state judges is adequate and appropriate.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., 2nd C.S., Ch. 3 (H.B. 11), Sec. 8, eff. December 1, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.031. Electronic Filing System

Sec. 72.031.  ELECTRONIC FILING SYSTEM.  (a)  In this section:
(1)  "Appellate court" means the supreme court, the court of criminal appeals, or a court of appeals.
(2)  "Electronic filing system" means the filing system established by supreme court rule or order for the electronic filing of documents in courts of this state.
(3)  "Electronic filing transaction" means the simultaneous electronic filing of one or more documents related to a proceeding before a court in this state.
(4)  "Local government" means a county or municipality.
(5)  "State court document database" means a database accessible by the public and established or authorized by the supreme court for storing documents filed with a court in this state.
(b)  The office as authorized by supreme court rule or order may:
(1)  implement an electronic filing system for use in the courts of this state;
(2)  allow public access to view information or documents in the state court document database; and
(3)  charge a reasonable fee for additional optional features in the state court document database.
(c)  Expired.
(d)  A local government or appellate court that uses the electronic filing system may accept electronic payment methods, including payments made with credit and debit cards.
(e)  A governmental entity not otherwise required to pay a filing fee under any other law may not be required to pay a fee established under this section.
(f)  A court shall waive payment of any fee due under this section for an individual the court determines is indigent.
Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1290 (H.B. 2302), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2013.
Amended by:
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 934 (H.B. 3774), Sec. 6.01, eff. September 1, 2021.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 934 (H.B. 3774), Sec. 6.02, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.032. Best Practices Education

Sec. 72.032.  BEST PRACTICES EDUCATION.  The director shall make available to courts information concerning best practices for addressing the needs of persons with mental illness in the court system, including the use of the preferred terms and phrases provided by Section 392.002.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 748 (S.B. 1326), Sec. 31, eff. September 1, 2017.
Sec. 72.033.  LIST OF NEW OR AMENDED COURT COSTS AND FEES.  The office biennially shall prepare and publish a list of new or amended court costs and fees as required by Section 51.607.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 9.03, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.034. Public Information Internet Website

Sec. 72.034.  PUBLIC INFORMATION INTERNET WEBSITE.  (a)  In this section:
(1)  "Public information" means citation, other related public or legal notice that a person, including a party to a cause of action, is required to publish under a statute or rule, and any other information that the person submits for publication on the public information Internet website to effectuate service of citation by publication.
(2)  "Public information Internet website" means the official statewide Internet website developed and maintained by the office under this section for the purpose of providing citation by publication.
(b)  The office shall develop and maintain a public information Internet website that allows a person to easily publish public information on the Internet website or the office to post public information on the Internet website on receipt from the person.
(c)  The public information Internet website shall allow the public to easily access, search, and sort the public information.
(d)  The supreme court by rule shall establish procedures for the submission of public information to the public information Internet website by a person who is required to publish the information.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 9.03, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle F - Court Administration › Chapter 72 - Office of Court Administration › Subchapter C. Powers and Duties › Section 72.035. Settlement Agreement Database

Sec. 72.035.  SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT DATABASE.  (a)  The office shall establish and maintain an electronic database that contains personal injury or wrongful death settlement agreements for which a minor or incapacitated person is the beneficiary.  A party to the agreement or a guardian, next friend, or guardian ad litem may record the agreement in the database.  Only one copy of an agreement may be filed by the parties or the guardian, next friend, or guardian ad litem in each settlement agreement.
(b)  A settlement agreement recorded in the database is confidential, and the office shall ensure that a settlement agreement may be accessed only by:
(1)  the parties to the settlement agreement;
(2)  each attorney representing a party to the settlement agreement; or
(3)  the guardian, next friend, or guardian ad litem of a party to the settlement agreement.
(c)  The office may set and collect a fee to record a settlement agreement in the database in an amount sufficient to cover the costs of maintaining the agreement in the database, not to exceed $50 for each agreement.
(d)  Any fee to record a settlement agreement in the database established by the office as provided by Subsection (c) is a court cost to be included for payment in the settlement agreement.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 743 (H.B. 770), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 72.034 by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 21.001(12), eff. September 1, 2021.