reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter A. Bailiffs for Certain Courts › Section 53.0071. Bailiff as Peace Officer

Text of section effective until January 01, 2025
Sec. 53.0071.  BAILIFF AS PEACE OFFICER.  Unless the appointing judge provides otherwise in the order of appointment, a bailiff appointed under Section 53.001(b), (g), (k), or (m) or 53.002(c), (e), or (f) is a "peace officer" for purposes of Article 2.12, Code of Criminal Procedure.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.71(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 919, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 1989;  Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 401, Sec. 4, eff. Aug. 26, 1991;  Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 546, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 1991;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 648, Sec. 5, eff. Aug. 28, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 912 (S.B. 1329), Sec. 6.04, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 972 (S.B. 2174), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 467 (H.B. 4170), Sec. 21.002(9), eff. September 1, 2019.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 2.064, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter A. Bailiffs for Certain Courts › Section 53.0071. Bailiff as Peace Officer

Text of section effective on January 01, 2025
Sec. 53.0071.  BAILIFF AS PEACE OFFICER.  Unless the appointing judge provides otherwise in the order of appointment, a bailiff appointed under Section 53.001(b), (g), (k), or (m) or 53.002(c), (e), or (f) is a "peace officer" for purposes of Article 2A.001, Code of Criminal Procedure.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.71(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 919, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 1989;  Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 401, Sec. 4, eff. Aug. 26, 1991;  Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 546, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 1991;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 648, Sec. 5, eff. Aug. 28, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 912 (S.B. 1329), Sec. 6.04, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 972 (S.B. 2174), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 467 (H.B. 4170), Sec. 21.002(9), eff. September 1, 2019.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 2.064, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter A. Bailiffs for Certain Courts › Section 53.008. Oath

Sec. 53.008.  OATH.  The bailiffs of the 34th, 70th, 86th, 97th, 130th, 142nd, 161st, 238th, 244th, 271st, 318th, 341st, 355th, 358th, 385th, and 446th district courts, the bailiffs of the courts described in Section 53.002(c), (d), (e), or (f), the bailiffs and the grand jury bailiffs of the district courts in Tarrant County that give preference to criminal cases, the bailiffs and grand jury bailiffs of the criminal district courts in Tarrant County, the bailiffs of the district courts in Taylor County, the bailiffs of the county courts at law of Taylor County, and the bailiffs of the county courts at law of Wise County shall each swear to the following oath, to be administered by the judge:  "I solemnly swear that I will faithfully and impartially perform all duties as may be required of me by law, so help me God."
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.71(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987;  Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 2, Sec. 8.29(g), eff. Aug. 28, 1989;  Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 759, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 1989;  Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 919, Sec. 7, eff. Sept. 1, 1989;  Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 16, Sec. 8.03(f), eff. Aug. 26, 1991;  Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., ch. 819, Sec. 4, eff. Sept. 1, 1991;  Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 430, Sec. 4, eff. Sept. 1, 1993;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 648, Sec. 6, eff. Aug. 28, 1995;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 868, Sec. 7, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1436, Sec. 3, eff. June 20, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 853, Sec. 7, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 890 (S.B. 2554), Sec. 4, eff. June 19, 2009.
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 800 (H.B. 2310), Sec. 5, eff. September 1, 2011.
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 912 (S.B. 1329), Sec. 6.05, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter A. Bailiffs for Certain Courts › Section 53.0091. Compensation in El Paso County

Sec. 53.0091.  COMPENSATION IN EL PASO COUNTY.  (a)  Each bailiff appointed under Section 53.002(c) shall be paid an annual salary out of the general fund of El Paso County, unless another source of funding is approved by the commissioners court.  The council of judges shall set the salary in writing consistent with pay scales adopted by the commissioners court that are comparable to other positions within El Paso County.
(b)  Bailiffs appointed under Section 53.002(c) who held office as bailiffs under that section on June 30, 2017, are entitled to receive at least the same annual salary or compensation under this section as they received on that date.
(c)  Repealed by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 52 (S.B. 1246), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2017.
(d)  A person appointed to succeed a bailiff who held office as bailiff under Section 53.002(c) is not entitled to be paid the same annual salary paid to the bailiff the person succeeds, but is entitled to receive an annual salary as provided by Subsection (a).
(e)  Repealed by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 52 (S.B. 1246), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2017.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.71(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 1074, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 52 (S.B. 1246), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 52 (S.B. 1246), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter B. Bailiff to Act as Interpreter › Section 53.021. Special Provision: Bailiff to Act as Interpreter

Sec. 53.021.  SPECIAL PROVISION:  BAILIFF TO ACT AS INTERPRETER.  (a)  The judges of the 24th, 135th, and 267th district courts may each appoint, with the approval of the commissioners court, an officer of the court to serve as bailiff.
(b)  The primary duty of a bailiff appointed under this section is to act as an interpreter.
(c)  A bailiff appointed under this section is entitled to receive a reasonable salary not to exceed the highest salary paid to a deputy, clerk, or assistant employed by the county.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter C. Bailiffs in Bexar County › Section 53.031. Appointments

Sec. 53.031.  APPOINTMENTS.  (a)  The Bexar County sheriff shall appoint one deputy to serve as bailiff for each of the district courts in Bexar County not designated as giving preference to criminal cases.
(b)  The Bexar County sheriff shall appoint two deputies to serve as bailiffs for each of the district courts in Bexar County designated as giving preference to criminal cases.
(c)  A person appointed as bailiff must be acceptable to the judge of the court to which he is appointed.
(d)  An appointment under this section is not effective until the judge approves and confirms it in writing.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter C. Bailiffs in Bexar County › Section 53.032. Oath

Sec. 53.032.  OATH.  Before assuming the duties of office, each bailiff must take the oath prescribed for officers of this state.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter C. Bailiffs in Bexar County › Section 53.033. Bond

Sec. 53.033.  BOND.  The sheriff may require a bailiff to give a bond.  The sheriff may prescribe the conditions and amount of the bond, or those terms may be set as otherwise provided by law.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter C. Bailiffs in Bexar County › Section 53.034. Powers

Sec. 53.034.  POWERS.  A bailiff appointed under this subchapter has the same powers that sheriffs and deputy sheriffs have in this state.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter C. Bailiffs in Bexar County › Section 53.035. Duties

Sec. 53.035.  DUTIES.  (a)  A bailiff acts in the name of his principal and may perform all official acts that the county sheriff may perform.
(b)  A bailiff shall attend each session of the court to which he is appointed and perform the official duties performed by sheriffs and deputies in the district courts of this state, including serving process, subpoenas, warrants, and writs.  A bailiff shall also perform services requested 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 D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter C. Bailiffs in Bexar County › Section 53.036. Term of Office; Vacancy

Sec. 53.036.  TERM OF OFFICE;  VACANCY.  (a)  A bailiff serves at the pleasure of the judge of the court the bailiff serves.
(b)  If the office of a bailiff becomes vacant, the sheriff shall appoint another bailiff in the manner provided for initial appointments.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter C. Bailiffs in Bexar County › Section 53.037. Acting for Another Bailiff

Sec. 53.037.  ACTING FOR ANOTHER BAILIFF.  The bailiffs may act for each other and shall act for each other when requested to by a judge or the sheriff.  A bailiff acting for another bailiff may not receive additional compensation.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter C. Bailiffs in Bexar County › Section 53.038. Salary

Sec. 53.038.  SALARY.  The sheriff shall fix the annual salary of the bailiffs of each court.  The salary must be approved by the commissioners court and shall be paid by warrant or check in equal installments twice monthly from the county fund established for the purpose.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter C. Bailiffs in Bexar County › Section 53.039. Additional Deputies

Sec. 53.039.  ADDITIONAL DEPUTIES.  This subchapter does not prevent the sheriff from assigning additional deputies to any of the district courts when circumstances require or when a district judge requests the assignment.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter D. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Harris County › Section 53.051. Office of Bailiff

Sec. 53.051.  OFFICE OF BAILIFF.  The judges of the 245th, 246th, 247th, 257th, 308th, 309th, 310th, 311th, and 312th family district courts shall appoint a person to serve their respective courts as bailiff.  A bailiff is an officer of the court and performs the duties of the office under the direction and supervision of the judge of the court.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.72(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter D. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Harris County › Section 53.052. Appointment

Sec. 53.052.  APPOINTMENT.  An order signed by the appointing judge and entered on the minutes of the court is evidence of appointment of a bailiff.  The judge shall give written notice to the commissioners court and each constable of Harris County of the appointment and date employed.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.72(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter D. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Harris County › Section 53.053. Qualifications

Sec. 53.053.  QUALIFICATIONS.  A bailiff must be a citizen of the United States and must be 19 years of age.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.72(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter D. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Harris County › Section 53.054. Bailiff as Deputy

Sec. 53.054.  BAILIFF AS DEPUTY.  On written notice of the appointment from the judge, a constable of said county may deputize the bailiff in addition to other deputies authorized by law.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.72(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter D. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Harris County › Section 53.055. Oath

Sec. 53.055.  OATH.  The following oath must be administered by the appointing judge to the bailiff appointed under this subchapter:  "I solemnly swear that I will perform faithfully and impartially all duties required of me and required by law so help me God."
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.72(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter D. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Harris County › Section 53.056. Term of Office

Sec. 53.056.  TERM OF OFFICE.  The bailiff holds office at the will of the judge of the court served by the bailiff.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.72(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter D. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Harris County › Section 53.057. Duties

Sec. 53.057.  DUTIES.  A bailiff shall perform the duties imposed on bailiffs under the general laws of this state and the other duties required by the judge of the court served.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.72(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter D. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Harris County › Section 53.058. Compensation

Sec. 53.058.  COMPENSATION.  The bailiff shall be compensated out of the general fund of the county in an amount to be set by the Commissioners Court of Harris County.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.72(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter E. Grand Jury Bailiffs in Certain Counties › Section 53.071. Grand Jury Bailiffs in Counties of 250,000 or More

Sec. 53.071.  GRAND JURY BAILIFFS IN COUNTIES OF 250,000 OR MORE.  (a)  In any county with a population of 250,000 or more, the judges of the district courts to whom the grand jury reports may, with the commissioners court's approval, appoint not more than seven grand jury bailiffs.
(b)  A bailiff appointed under this section is subject to removal without cause at the will of the appointing judge or judges.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.73, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter E. Grand Jury Bailiffs in Certain Counties › Section 53.072. Grand Jury Bailiffs in Galveston County

Sec. 53.072.  GRAND JURY BAILIFFS IN GALVESTON COUNTY.  The judge of a district court in Galveston County impaneling a grand jury shall appoint not more than six grand jury bailiffs.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 148, Sec. 2.73, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 2, Sec. 8.30, eff. Aug. 28, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter F. Appellate Court Peace Officers › Section 53.091. Employment

Sec. 53.091.  EMPLOYMENT.  (a)  The supreme court, the court of criminal appeals, and each of the courts of appeals may employ and commission a peace officer to protect the court.
(b)  A peace officer commissioned under this section holds office at the will of the court served by the officer.
(c)  A person may not be commissioned as a peace officer under this section unless the person meets all standards for licensing as a peace officer by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.
Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 695, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
Amended by:
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 93 (S.B. 686), Sec. 2.21, eff. May 18, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter F. Appellate Court Peace Officers › Section 53.092. Powers and Duties

Sec. 53.092.  POWERS AND DUTIES.  Any peace officer commissioned under this section shall be vested with all the rights, privileges, obligations, and duties of any other peace officer in this state while on the property under the control of the court or acting in the actual course and scope of employment.
Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 695, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter G. Bailiffs for County Courts at Law › Section 53.101. Assignment of Bailiff

Sec. 53.101.  ASSIGNMENT OF BAILIFF.  At least one bailiff shall be assigned regularly to each county court at law of Tarrant County.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.01, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter G. Bailiffs for County Courts at Law › Section 53.102. Office of Bailiff; Appointment

Sec. 53.102.  OFFICE OF BAILIFF; APPOINTMENT.  (a)  The judge of each county court at law of Tarrant County may appoint one person to serve as bailiff of that court.
(b)  The bailiff is an officer of the court and performs the duties of the office under the direction and supervision of the judge of the court.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.01, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter G. Bailiffs for County Courts at Law › Section 53.103. Term of Office

Sec. 53.103.  TERM OF OFFICE.  The bailiff holds office at the will of the judge of the court served by the bailiff.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.01, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter G. Bailiffs for County Courts at Law › Section 53.104. Duties

Sec. 53.104.  DUTIES.  A bailiff shall perform the duties imposed on bailiffs under the general laws of this state and the other duties required by the judge of the court served.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.01, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter G. Bailiffs for County Courts at Law › Section 53.105. Assignment of Bailiff by Sheriff

Sec. 53.105.  ASSIGNMENT OF BAILIFF BY SHERIFF.  (a)  If the judge of a county court at law of Tarrant County does not appoint a person to serve as bailiff under Section 53.102, the sheriff of Tarrant County shall assign a bailiff for the court on written request of the judge.
(b)  A bailiff assigned by the sheriff serves at the pleasure of the court to which the bailiff is assigned and shall perform the duties required by the judge of the court.
(c)  On request of the judge of a county court at law, the sheriff shall immediately assign a bailiff to the court served by the judge to fill a temporary absence of the appointed or assigned bailiff.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.01, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter G. Bailiffs for County Courts at Law › Section 53.106. Compensation

Sec. 53.106.  COMPENSATION.  A bailiff appointed by the judge of a county court at law of Tarrant County shall be compensated out of the general fund of the county in an amount to be set by the Commissioners Court of Tarrant County.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.01, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter H. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Tarrant County › Section 53.121. Office of Bailiff

Sec. 53.121.  OFFICE OF BAILIFF.  The judges of the 231st, 233rd, 322nd, 323rd, 324th, 325th, and 360th district courts may appoint one person to serve as bailiff of that court and one person to serve as bailiff for the district court served by an associate judge of that district court.  A bailiff is an officer of the court and performs the duties of the office under the direction and supervision of the judge of the court.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.02, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter H. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Tarrant County › Section 53.122. Appointment

Sec. 53.122.  APPOINTMENT.  An order signed by the appointing judge and entered on the minutes of the court is evidence of appointment of a bailiff.  The judge shall give written notice to the commissioners court and each constable of Tarrant County of the appointment and date employed.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.02, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter H. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Tarrant County › Section 53.123. Qualifications

Sec. 53.123.  QUALIFICATIONS.  A bailiff must be a citizen of the United States and must be 18 years of age or older.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.02, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter H. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Tarrant County › Section 53.124. Bailiff as Deputy

Sec. 53.124.  BAILIFF AS DEPUTY.  On written notice of the appointment from the judge, a constable of the county may deputize the bailiff in addition to other deputies authorized by law.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.02, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter H. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Tarrant County › Section 53.125. Oath

Sec. 53.125.  OATH.  The following oath must be administered by the appointing judge to the bailiff appointed under this subchapter:  "I solemnly swear that I will perform faithfully and impartially all duties required of me and required by law so help me God."
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.02, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter H. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Tarrant County › Section 53.126. Term of Office

Sec. 53.126.  TERM OF OFFICE.  The bailiff holds office at the will of the judge of the court served by the bailiff.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.02, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter H. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Tarrant County › Section 53.127. Duties

Sec. 53.127.  DUTIES.  A bailiff shall perform the duties imposed on bailiffs under the general laws of this state and the other duties required by the judge of the court served.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.02, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 53 - Bailiffs › Subchapter H. Bailiffs for Family District Courts in Tarrant County › Section 53.128. Compensation

Sec. 53.128.  COMPENSATION.  The bailiff shall be compensated out of the general fund of the county in an amount to be set by the Commissioners Court of Tarrant County.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1182 (S.B. 1139), Sec. 5.02, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter B. Bell County Truancy Masters › Section 54.101. Appointment

Sec. 54.101.  APPOINTMENT.  (a)  The Commissioners Court of Bell County may select masters to serve the justice courts of Bell County having jurisdiction in truancy matters.
(b)  The commissioners court shall establish the minimum qualifications, salary, benefits, and other compensation of each master position and shall determine whether the position is full-time or part-time.
(c)  A master appointed under this section serves at the pleasure of the commissioners court.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 355 (H.B. 452), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 5.03, eff. September 1, 2019.
Amended by:
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 915 (H.B. 3607), Sec. 9.002, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter B. Bell County Truancy Masters › Section 54.102. Jurisdiction

Sec. 54.102.  JURISDICTION.  A master appointed under this subchapter has concurrent jurisdiction with the judges of the justice of the peace courts of Bell County over cases involving truant conduct in accordance with Section 65.004, Family Code.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 355 (H.B. 452), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 5.03, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter B. Bell County Truancy Masters › Section 54.103. Powers and Duties

Sec. 54.103.  POWERS AND DUTIES.  (a) The Commissioners Court of Bell County shall establish the powers and duties of a master appointed under this subchapter.
(b)  An order of referral may limit the use or power of a master.
(c)  Unless limited by published local rule, by written order, or by an order of referral, a master may perform all acts and take all measures necessary and proper to perform the tasks assigned in a referral.
(d)  A master may administer oaths.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 355 (H.B. 452), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 5.03, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter B. Bell County Truancy Masters › Section 54.104. Judicial Immunity

Sec. 54.104.  JUDICIAL IMMUNITY.  A master has the same judicial immunity as a district judge.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 355 (H.B. 452), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 5.03, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter B. Bell County Truancy Masters › Section 54.105. Training

Sec. 54.105.  TRAINING.  A master appointed under this subchapter must successfully complete all training a justice of the peace is required to complete under state law.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 355 (H.B. 452), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 5.03, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter B. Bell County Truancy Masters › Section 54.106. Failure to Comply With Summons or Order

Sec. 54.106.  FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH SUMMONS OR ORDER.  If an attorney, party, witness, or any other person fails to comply with a summons or order, the master may certify that failure in writing to the referring court for appropriate action.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 355 (H.B. 452), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 5.03, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter B. Bell County Truancy Masters › Section 54.107. Witnesses

Sec. 54.107.  WITNESSES.  (a)  A witness appearing before a master is subject to the penalties of perjury as provided by Chapter 37, Penal Code.
(b)  A witness referred to the court under Section 54.106 is subject to the same penalties and orders that may be imposed on a witness appearing in a hearing before the court.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 355 (H.B. 452), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 606 (S.B. 891), Sec. 5.03, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.301. Appointment

Sec. 54.301.  APPOINTMENT.  (a)  Each judge of a district court of Dallas County that gives preference to criminal cases, each judge of a criminal district court of Dallas County, and each judge of a county criminal court of Dallas County, with the consent and approval of the Commissioners Court of Dallas County, may appoint a magistrate to perform the duties authorized by this subchapter.
(b)  Judges may authorize one or more magistrates to share service with more than one court.
(c)  If a magistrate serves more than one court, the magistrate's appointment must be made with the unanimous approval of all the judges under whom the magistrate serves.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 215, Sec. 1, eff. May 23, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.302. Qualifications

Sec. 54.302.  QUALIFICATIONS.  To be eligible for appointment as a magistrate, a person must:
(1)  be a resident of this state;  and
(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state for at least four years.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.303. Compensation

Sec. 54.303.  COMPENSATION.  (a)  A magistrate is entitled to the salary determined by the Commissioners Court of Dallas County.
(b)  The salary may not be less than the salary authorized to be paid to a master for family law cases appointed under Subchapter A.
(c)  The magistrate's salary is paid from the county fund available for payment of officers' salaries.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.304. Judicial Immunity

Sec. 54.304.  JUDICIAL IMMUNITY.  A magistrate has the same judicial immunity as a district judge.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.305. Termination of Services

Sec. 54.305.  TERMINATION OF SERVICES.  (a)  A magistrate who serves a single court serves at the will of the judge.
(b)  The services of a magistrate who serves more than one court may be terminated by a majority vote of all the judges whom the magistrate serves.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.306. Proceeding That May Be Referred

Sec. 54.306.  PROCEEDING THAT MAY BE REFERRED.  (a)  A judge may refer to a magistrate any matter arising out of a criminal case involving:
(1)  a negotiated plea of guilty or nolo contendere before the court;
(2)  a bond forfeiture;
(3)  a pretrial motion;
(4)  a postconviction writ of habeas corpus;
(5)  an examining trial;
(6)  an occupational driver's license;
(7)  an appeal of an administrative driver's license revocation hearing;  and
(8)  any other matter the judge considers necessary and proper.
(b)  The magistrate may not preside over a trial on the merits, whether or not the trial is before a jury.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 215, Sec. 2, eff. May 23, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 811, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.307. Order of Referral

Sec. 54.307.  ORDER OF REFERRAL.  (a)  To refer one or more cases to a magistrate, a judge must issue an order of referral specifying the magistrate's duties.
(b)  An order of referral may:
(1)  limit the powers of the magistrate and direct the magistrate to report only on specific issues, do particular acts, or receive and report on evidence only;
(2)  set the time and place for the hearing;
(3)  prescribe a closing date for the hearing;
(4)  provide a date for filing the magistrate's findings;
(5)  designate proceedings for more than one case over which the magistrate shall preside;
(6)  direct the magistrate to call the court's docket;  and
(7)  set forth general powers and limitations of authority of the magistrate applicable to any case referred.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.308. Powers

Sec. 54.308.  POWERS.  (a)  Except as limited by an order of referral, a magistrate to whom a case is referred may:
(1)  conduct hearings;
(2)  hear evidence;
(3)  compel production of relevant evidence;
(4)  rule on admissibility of evidence;
(5)  issue summons for the appearance of witnesses;
(6)  examine witnesses;
(7)  swear witnesses for hearings;
(8)  make findings of fact on evidence;
(9)  formulate conclusions of law;
(10)  rule on a pretrial motion;
(11)  recommend the rulings, orders, or judgment to be made in a case;
(12)  regulate proceedings in a hearing;  and
(13)  do any act and take any measure necessary and proper for the efficient performance of the duties required by the order of referral.
(b)  A magistrate may not enter a ruling on any issue of law or fact if that ruling could result in dismissal or require dismissal of a pending criminal prosecution, but the magistrate may make findings, conclusions, and recommendations on those issues.
(c)  Except as limited by an order of referral, a magistrate who is appointed by a district court judge and to whom a case is referred may accept a plea of guilty or nolo contendere in a misdemeanor case for a county criminal court.  The magistrate shall forward any fee or fine collected for the misdemeanor offense to the county clerk.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 522, Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 1987;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 215, Sec. 3, eff. May 23, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.309. Court Reporter

Sec. 54.309.  COURT REPORTER.  At the request of a party in a felony case, the court shall provide a court reporter to record the proceedings before the magistrate.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 215, Sec. 4, eff. May 23, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.310. Witness

Sec. 54.310.  WITNESS.  (a)  A witness who appears before a magistrate and is sworn is subject to the penalties for perjury provided by law.
(b)  A referring court may issue attachment against and may fine or imprison a witness whose failure to appear after being summoned or whose refusal to answer questions has been certified to the court.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.311. Papers Transmitted to Judge

Sec. 54.311.  PAPERS TRANSMITTED TO JUDGE.  At the conclusion of the proceedings, a magistrate shall transmit to the referring court any papers relating to the case, including the magistrate's findings, conclusions, orders, recommendations, or other action taken.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter D. Criminal Law Magistrates in Dallas County › Section 54.312. Judicial Action

Sec. 54.312.  JUDICIAL ACTION.  (a)  A referring court may modify, correct, reject, reverse, or recommit for further information any action taken by the magistrate.
(b)  If the court does not modify, correct, reject, reverse, or recommit an action of the magistrate, the action becomes the decree of the court.
(c)  At the conclusion of each term during which the services of a magistrate are used, the referring court shall enter a decree on the minutes adopting the actions of the magistrate of which the court approves.
Acts 1985, 69th Leg., ch. 480, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1985.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter H. Criminal Law Magistrates in Tarrant County › Section 54.651. Appointment

Sec. 54.651.  APPOINTMENT.  (a)  The judges of the district courts of Tarrant County that give preference to criminal cases, the judges of the criminal district courts of Tarrant County, and the judges of the county criminal courts of Tarrant County, with the consent and approval of the Commissioners Court of Tarrant County, shall jointly appoint the number of magistrates set by the commissioners court to perform the duties authorized by this subchapter.
(b)  Each magistrate's appointment must be made with the approval of at least two-thirds of all the judges described in Subsection (a).
(c)  If the number of magistrates is less than the number of judges described in Subsection (a), each magistrate shall serve equally in the courts of those judges.
(d)  A magistrate appointed under this subchapter may not engage in the private practice of law, as defined by Section 81.101, in Tarrant County.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 81, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 31, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 910, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 861 (H.B. 3474), Sec. 4.007, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter H. Criminal Law Magistrates in Tarrant County › Section 54.652. Qualifications

Sec. 54.652.  QUALIFICATIONS.  To be eligible for appointment as a magistrate, a person must:
(1)  be a resident of this state;  and
(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state for at least four years.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 81, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 31, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter H. Criminal Law Magistrates in Tarrant County › Section 54.653. Compensation

Sec. 54.653.  COMPENSATION.  (a)  A full-time magistrate is entitled to the salary determined by the Commissioners Court of Tarrant County.
(b)  Repealed by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 934 (H.B. 3774), Sec. 5.05, eff. September 1, 2021.
(c)  The salary of a part-time magistrate is equal to the per-hour salary of a full-time magistrate.  The per-hour salary is determined by dividing the annual salary by a 2,080 work-hour year.  The judges of the courts trying criminal cases in Tarrant County shall approve the number of hours for which a part-time magistrate is to be paid.
(d)  A magistrate's salary is paid from the county fund available for payment of officers' salaries.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 81, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 31, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1045 (H.B. 1904), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1121 (H.B. 2384), Sec. 12, eff. September 1, 2019.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 934 (H.B. 3774), Sec. 5.05, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter H. Criminal Law Magistrates in Tarrant County › Section 54.654. Judicial Immunity

Sec. 54.654.  JUDICIAL IMMUNITY.  A magistrate has the same judicial immunity as a district judge.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 81, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 31, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter H. Criminal Law Magistrates in Tarrant County › Section 54.655. Termination of Services

Sec. 54.655.  TERMINATION OF SERVICES.  (a)  A magistrate who serves a single court serves at the will of the judge.
(b)  The services of a magistrate who serves more than one court may be terminated by a majority vote of all the judges whom the magistrate serves.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 81, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 31, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 2 - Judicial Branch › Subtitle D - Judicial Personnel and Officials › Chapter 54 - Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges › Subchapter H. Criminal Law Magistrates in Tarrant County › Section 54.657. Order of Referral

Sec. 54.657.  ORDER OF REFERRAL.  (a)  To refer one or more cases to a magistrate, a judge must issue an order of referral specifying the magistrate's duties.
(b)  An order of referral may:
(1)  limit the powers of the magistrate and direct the magistrate to report only on specific issues, do particular acts, or receive and report on evidence only;
(2)  set the time and place for the hearing;
(3)  prescribe a closing date for the hearing;
(4)  provide a date for filing the magistrate's findings;
(5)  designate proceedings for more than one case over which the magistrate shall preside;
(6)  direct the magistrate to call the court's docket;  and
(7)  set forth general powers and limitations of authority of the magistrate applicable to any case referred.
Added by Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 81, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 31, 1987.