Fort Bend County Court handles civil, criminal, probate, juvenile, and traffic cases across multiple courts. Visitors can access courthouse details, court services, a court directory, and public records information to quickly find the right justice center. The page also provides links to official court forms, contact numbers, and office hours for easy reference. Residents and attorneys can use this resource to view case activity or plan courthouse visits.
The court system includes County Courts at Law, District Courts, Magistrate Courts, and Justice of the Peace courts, each serving specific functions. Users can explore e-filing options, case lookup tools, and court schedules to complete filings or access records efficiently, all from one centralized page. This resource helps residents and legal professionals save time by connecting them directly with the services they need. It also highlights important courthouse locations and available public services to support the community effectively.
What is the Fort Bend County Court System
The Fort Bend County court system manages legal cases ranging from minor disputes to serious criminal matters. Cases are directed to specific court departments based on the type of law involved, ensuring efficient handling and access to justice.
Court Departments in Fort Bend County
Fort Bend County offers several court departments, each handling different types of cases:
- County Courts at Law: Handle misdemeanors, civil actions, probate, juvenile matters, guardianships, and certain mental-health cases.
- District Courts: Deal with felony criminal cases and high-value civil disputes. The county has multiple district courts, including the 240th, 268th, 328th, 387th, 400th, 434th, 458th, and 505th.
- Magistrate Court: Handles bond hearings, arrest warrants, extradition, and emergency protective orders.
- Justice of the Peace (JP) Courts: Manage minor criminal offenses, traffic tickets, and small claims up to $20,000.
Special courts, such as juvenile or mental-health courts, are also part of the county’s justice center and appear in the official court directory.
County Judiciary and Administration
The court system operates under county-level administration. Clerks’ offices, including the County Clerk and District Clerk, manage filings, public records, and court schedules. The main justice center in Richmond hosts several courtrooms, streamlining court administration and services.
How Cases Are Assigned
Cases are directed to different courts based on their nature:
- Minor criminal offenses, traffic violations, and small civil disputes
- Misdemeanors, probate, guardianship, and juvenile cases
- Felonies and high-value civil claims
- Pre-trial proceedings, such as bond hearings and arrests
Court Types at a Glance
| Court Type | Cases Handled | When It’s Used |
|---|---|---|
| Justice of the Peace | Minor criminal cases, traffic, evictions, small civil claims | Low-level disputes and offenses |
| Magistrate Court | Bond hearings, warrants, protective orders | Early-stage criminal matters |
| County Court at Law | Misdemeanors, civil, probate, juvenile | Medium-level cases |
| District Court | Felonies, major civil disputes | Serious criminal and high-value civil cases |
Search Fort Bend County Court Records, Cases & Dockets
Searching Fort Bend County Court records is straightforward when you know the correct steps. Users can search for civil, criminal, probate, family, and traffic cases using official online tools or in-person requests at the courthouse.
How to Search Court Records in Fort Bend County
To begin a court record search or case lookup, follow these steps:
- Identify the record type – civil, criminal, probate, family, or traffic.
- Gather information – case number, full names, filing date, or attorney details.
- Choose a search method – online database or in-person request at the clerk’s office.
- Enter the search details – most online portals allow filters by case type, date, or party name.
- Review the results – check case status, docket details, and available documents.
Tips for more effective searches:
- Use exact spellings for names.
- Narrow searches by case type or year for older records.
- For common names, adding the filing date or case number reduces irrelevant results.
Where to Search Fort Bend County Court Records
Users can access records through these official portals and offices:
- https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/departments/county-clerk/online-record-search – handles civil, probate, and some criminal records.
- https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/node/22357 – handles criminal, family, and traffic case filings.
- Court Dockets – available on both clerk websites, showing hearing dates, motions, and upcoming cases.
- In-person visits – if online records are incomplete, visit the courthouse for document retrieval.
Official portals provide tools for digital court search and document access through county-managed systems.
Fort Bend County Court Record Types and Fees
| Record Type | Includes | Online Availability | Fee for Copy/Download | Notes/Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil | Lawsuits, contracts, small claims | Yes | $1–$5 per page | Sealed records not available |
| Criminal | Felonies, misdemeanors | Yes | $1–$5 per page | Juvenile & sealed cases restricted |
| Probate | Wills, estates, guardianships | Yes | $1–$5 per page | Public unless court orders otherwise |
| Family | Divorce, child custody, support | Yes | $1–$5 per page | Sensitive cases may be restricted |
| Traffic | Tickets, violations | Yes | $1–$2 per page | Fully public |
| Dockets | Hearing schedules, filings | Yes | Free online | Printable PDFs available |
Fees may vary slightly depending on whether documents are certified copies or standard copies. Always check the official Clerk or District Clerk website for the latest pricing.
County Courts at La: What They Are & When to Use Them
County Courts at Law handle a wide range of legal matters, from civil disputes to misdemeanor criminal cases. Residents usually turn to these courts for issues such as probate, DWI offenses, guardianship, or small civil claims.
These courts are specialized trial courts in Fort Bend County. They manage cases that require more attention than justice of the peace courts provide, de but do not fall under district courts. By focusing on specific case types, they help residents resolve legal matters efficiently and fairly.
What County Courts at Law Handle
County Courts at Law handle various types of cases, including civil, criminal, probate, and juvenile matters. Common matters include:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases — Offenses punishable by fines or up to one year in jail.
- Civil disputes — small claims and other civil lawsuits with monetary limits.
- Probate matters — administration of estates, wills, and related legal issues.
- Guardianship cases — legal guardianship for minors or adults unable to manage personal affairs.
- Civil mental-health proceedings — involuntary commitments and related cases.
- Juvenile matters — cases involving minors who require supervision or intervention.
- DWI/DUI offenses — legal proceedings for driving while intoxicated.
Residents who need help with these matters often start at a County Court at Law, as these courts specialize in the types of cases listed above.
Fort Bend County Courts at Law: Court Departments
Fort Bend County has six County Courts at Law, each handling a similar range of cases. These courts operate collectively as the county court directory, providing clear paths for residents seeking legal assistance.
Court Departments:
- County Court at Law No. 1 — civil disputes, probate, misdemeanor criminal cases, guardianship.
- County Court at Law No. 2 — DWI offenses, civil mental-health proceedings, misdemeanor crimes.
- County Court at Law No. 3 — juvenile matters, probate, civil lawsuits, guardianship cases.
- County Court at Law No. 4 — civil claims, criminal misdemeanors, DWI cases, and guardianship.
- County Court at Law No. 5 — probate and estate administration, civil mental-health, juvenile cases.
- County Court at Law No. 6 — misdemeanor offenses, civil disputes, DWI/DUI proceedings, guardianship.
Each department focuses on providing timely hearings and decisions for the types of cases listed above. While all courts share overlapping responsibilities, residents can check the court directory or contact the clerk’s office to confirm which department handles a specific matter.
When Residents Use County Courts at Law
Residents typically turn to these courts when legal matters are beyond the scope of justice of the peace courts but do not require district court proceedings. Examples include:
- Filing probate for a deceased relative’s estate.
- Addressing DWI or misdemeanor criminal offenses.
- Managing small civil claims or disputes under the court’s financial limit.
- Seeking guardianship for a dependent adult or minor.
- Initiating civil mental-health proceedings.
- Handling juvenile matters, such as cases involving minors in need of supervision.
This tiered approach ensures that cases are assigned to courts that can resolve them efficiently while providing access to specialized legal knowledge.
District Courts in Fort Bend County
District Courts in Fort Bend County handle serious criminal cases and high-value civil disputes. People with felony charges or major civil litigation should use these courts for hearings and filings.
What Are District Courts?
District Courts are higher-level courts in Texas that deal with legal matters beyond the scope of County Courts at Law. Located in the Fort Bend County Justice Center, these courts handle felonies, complex civil lawsuits, and certain family law cases that require broader authority. Residents can refer to the district court directory to see all active courts and assigned judges.
The main district courts in Fort Bend County include the 240th, 268th, 328th, 387th, 400th, 434th, 458th, and 505th District Courts. Each court has a specific judge and handles cases according to jurisdiction rules.
Cases Handled by District Courts
District Courts primarily hear cases that are more serious or complex than those County Courts at Law manage.
Typical cases include:
- Serious criminal cases, such as felonies including robbery, aggravated assault, and murder
- High-value civil litigation, usually disputes exceeding $200,000
- Family law matters, including divorce or child custody issues, require greater authority
- Probate and estate cases involving substantial property or inheritance disputes
County Courts at Law, in contrast, typically handle misdemeanors, civil cases under $200,000, smaller probate matters, and traffic violations. If a legal matter involves serious criminal charges or major civil disputes, residents should contact the appropriate District Court.
How to Find Your Court
For anyone unsure about their assigned court, the Fort Bend County Justice Center provides guidance. Calling the main courthouse number allows staff to direct you to the correct judge or court division. Residents can also use the district court directory to check court assignments and contact information.
Tips for contacting District Courts:
- Reference your case number when calling to speed up assistance
- Check the court directory for specific judge assignments
- Contact the main courthouse if unsure which court applies
By using the correct court and contacting the relevant office, residents can ensure their cases progress efficiently and with clarity.
Other Court Divisions: Magistrate Court, Justice of the Peace, Specialty
Fort Bend County operates several court divisions to handle different types of legal matters. Magistrate Courts, Justice of the Peace Courts, and Specialty Courts each serve specific functions that residents may need for traffic, minor offenses, or other legal proceedings.
Magistrate Court
Magistrate Court handles immediate legal matters that often arise before a full trial. It oversees probable cause hearings, bail or bond hearings, issuance of warrants, emergency protective orders, and extradition processes. Residents may appear here if they face an arrest, need a warrant issued, or require quick judicial action to protect themselves or others.
Key functions of the Magistrate Court include:
- Probable Cause Hearings: Determine if there is enough evidence to continue criminal proceedings.
- Bail and Bond Hearings: Decide whether a defendant can be released before trial and under what conditions.
- Warrants: Issue arrest or search warrants based on legal requirements.
- Emergency Protective Orders: Provide immediate protection for victims of domestic violence or threats.
- Extradition Requests: Handle legal transfer of individuals from other jurisdictions.
Magistrate Courts operate daily and often serve as the first point of contact for individuals involved in criminal matters. These courts ensure legal procedures begin quickly and fairly, allowing other court divisions to proceed efficiently.
Justice of the Peace Courts
Fort Bend County also maintains Justice of the Peace (JP) Courts, which primarily deal with traffic violations, minor criminal offenses, and small claims. JP Courts offer a simpler process for legal matters that do not require higher court intervention.
Residents may visit these courts for:
- Traffic tickets and city ordinance violations
- Small claims lawsuits (usually under $20,000)
- Hearing appeals from other JP decisions
- Civil disputes requiring formal resolution
Specialty and Other Courts
The county’s Specialty Courts, such as the Special Sanctions Court, handle cases that benefit from alternative sentencing or focused judicial oversight. These courts often manage probation compliance, community service, or rehabilitation programs to address specific behavioral issues.
Residents are encouraged to use these courts when regular court proceedings may not be suitable, such as addressing non-violent offenses with structured rehabilitation programs or resolving minor disputes without lengthy litigation.
How to Find Court Services & Resources
Finding court services and resources in Fort Bend County Courts is fairly straightforward once you know where to look. This section explains how to access court‑contact info, public records, e‑filing, language support, court calendars, and how to appear or request records or pay fees.
Court Directory & Contact Information
If someone needs to contact a court directly — for case questions, filings, or scheduling — the County provides a directory of all major courts and administrative offices. Here is a summary of contact details for many of the main courts and offices.
| Court / Office | Phone (Main) / Fax / Email | Office Address / Mailing Address | Hours / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| County Courts at Law (1–6) | Court at Law 1: 281‑633‑7415 (fax: 281‑633‑7414) Court at Law 2: 281‑341‑4446 (fax: 281‑341‑4456) Court at Law 3: 281‑341‑4429 (fax: 281‑344‑3918) Court at Law 4: 281‑238‑1995 (fax: 281‑238‑3370) Court at Law 5: 281‑238‑3270 (fax: 832‑471‑1848) Court at Law 6: 832‑471‑1814 (fax: 281‑238‑3275) | 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, TX 77469 Mailing: 301 Jackson Street, Richmond, TX 77469 | Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM & 1:00 PM–5:00 PM |
| Associate County Courts at Law A & B | A: 281‑633‑7693 (fax: 281‑238‑2275) B: 281‑341‑4424 (fax: 281‑238‑2275) | Same address as above | Same hours as above |
| District Courts (240th, 268th, 328th, 387th, 400th, 434th, 458th, 505th) | 240th: 281‑341‑8600 268th: 281‑341‑8610 328th: 281‑341‑4406 387th: 281‑238‑3290 400th: 281‑341‑4422 434th: 281‑633‑7653 458th: 832‑471‑4905 505th: 281‑238‑3244 | Fort Bend County Justice Center, 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, TX 77469 Mailing address for all: 301 Jackson Street, Richmond, TX 77469 | County Clerk’s Office |
| District Clerk’s Office | Phone: 281‑341‑8685 Records Email: cclerkrecords@fortbendcountytx.gov Courts Email: cclerkcourts@fortbendcountytx.gov Fax (Civil/Probate): 832‑471‑1806 Fax (Misdemeanor/Juvenile): 832‑471‑1805 | 301 Jackson Street, Suite 101, Richmond, TX 77469 | Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM |
| District Clerk Office | Main phone: 281‑342‑3411 Court‑specific numbers (see District Courts row) | 301 Jackson Street, Richmond, TX 77469 | — |
Users should call the appropriate court directly for hearings, filing, or case‑specific questions. For general record requests or administrative issues, contacting the County or District Clerk’s office works best.
Public Records & Court‑Records Research
Most public records, such as criminal, civil, probate, property, marriage, divorce, deeds, liens, and other official documents, are maintained by either the County Clerk or the District Clerk, depending on the record type. Public court records shown through county systems reflect filing activity and case information as made available by the court. Availability varies by case type and court rules. Some records may be restricted or sealed.
To search records online:
- Visit the County Clerk’s site and click “Online Record Search.”
- Choose the type of record you seek (e.,g. “Official Public Records,” “Court Records,” “Property,” “Marriage,” etc.).
- Enter search criteria such as name (last name, first name), date, instrument number, or document type.
- Click “Search” and then “View” to open available documents. Unofficial copies can often be downloaded.
If someone needs certified copies or plain copies (e.g., for legal proceedings or real estate), they must either request them in person, by mail, or online (with payment). Fees: plain copy is typically $1 per page; certified copy adds a certification fee on top.
E‑Filing and Online Services
Many filings for civil, probate, misdemeanor, and other court matters must go through the statewide e‑filing system, eFile Texas.
- The County Clerk’s office serves as the e‑filing clerk for civil and probate cases in County Courts at Law.
- Before filing, filers should check which documents contain sensitive information (like social security numbers) — those must be properly redacted per court rules.
- For full details, including registration or login, visit the eFile Texas website.
Thus, many court procedures benefit from online filing or digital court services, making processing and record‑keeping faster and more efficient.
Language Access & Self‑Represented Litigant Resources
The courts in Fort Bend County — both County Courts at Law and District Courts — provide free language interpretation or translation services for persons who are Limited English Proficient (LEP).
For those representing themselves (pro se litigants), the County Clerk’s website outlines certain services: the office handles civil filings, court records, probate, and related documents for County Courts at Law. Additionally, users can access public records, property records, marriage licenses, deed records, and more through the online record search portal.
Court Calendar, Dockets, Remote Hearings & Courtroom Etiquette
Court schedules, calendars, and dockets are available through the relevant court’s contact or case‑search system. The District Clerk’s office offers an online case‑search portal for courts handled under its jurisdiction. Some courts also support remote hearings. For instance, the Court at Law 1 may stream hearings via video‑conferencing through its public YouTube channel.
When appearing in person, all visitors — attorneys, defendants, litigants, and public — must follow courtroom rules and etiquette established by each court (such as dress code, behavior, and security procedures).
When and How to Appear / File / Request Records / Pay Fees
- To file a new case in civil, probate, or misdemeanor court: use e‑filing (via eFile Texas) or visit the County Clerk’s office during business hours.
- To request court or public records: use the Online Record Search portal, then download or order printed/certified copies.
- To get certified copies: submit a request in person or by mail, including the instrument number if available. Fees apply per page and per certification.
- To check court dates or dockets: call the appropriate court’s main phone number or use the public case‑search portal via the District Clerk’s website.
- To pay fees or fines (for records or court costs): the County Clerk accepts online payments for record copies, court costs, and fines, or fees associated with public records.
Fort Bend County Court Location & Justice Center Details
The Fort Bend County Justice Center is located at 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, TX 77469, serving as the primary courthouse for Fort Bend County Court operations. This location houses most district and county courts at law, clerk’s offices, and public service areas. Visitors can access courtrooms, file legal documents, and attend hearings at this main facility.
Courthouse Address & Other Buildings
- Main Justice Center: 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, TX 77469, ZIP Code 77469.
- Mailing Address: 301 Jackson Street, Richmond, TX 77469.
- Phone: (281) 341‑4517
- Email: distclerk@fortbendcountytx.gov
- Additional Facilities: Some County Courts at Law and administrative offices remain in historic courthouse buildings on Jackson Street.
The court directory lists all court departments, including County Courts at Law, District Courts, and clerk’s offices, with office numbers and locations within the Justice Center.
Directions & Transportation
- From Houston or the surrounding areas, take Williams Way Blvd to Eugene Heimann Circle, following courthouse signage.
- Public Entrance: The main doors lead directly into the lobby, where security screening is conducted.
- Transit: Most visitors arrive by car; limited public transit serves the Richmond area.
Parking & Accessibility
- Parking Spaces: Multi-level garage with 404 spots, plus about 860 surface spaces.
- Public & Overflow Parking: Ample surface parking is available if the garage is full.
- Accessible Parking: ADA-compliant spaces located near main entrances.
- Security Screening: All visitors must pass through metal detectors and undergo bag inspection before entering courtrooms.
Court Departments & Contact Info
| Department | Phone | |
|---|---|---|
| County Court at Law No. 6 | 832‑471‑1173 | Court6Criminal@fbctx.gov / Court6Civil@fbctx.gov |
| 400th Judicial District Court | 281‑341‑4422 | 400dc@fbctx.gov |
| 458th Judicial District Court | 832‑471‑4905 | Gabriela.RomeroDC458@fbctx.gov |
| District Clerk’s’s Office | 281‑341‑4517 | distclerk@fortbendcountytx.gov |
(FAQ’s) / About Fort Bend County
This section answers common questions about Fort Bend County courts, helping residents handle legal matters efficiently. Users can find guidance for misdemeanors, probate, small claims, juvenile issues, and access court services or public records.
Which Fort Bend County court handles my case?
Residents often wonder which court will hear their case. In Fort Bend County, the court type depends on the issue. Misdemeanors and DWI cases are generally handled by the County or District Court, while probate matters like wills and estate administration go to the Probate Court. Small claims disputes are resolved in Justice of the Peace Courts, and juvenile matters, including delinquency or dependency, fall under the Juvenile Court. Civil and family cases are managed in District Courts, depending on the case complexity and claim amount. Checking the court directory helps users locate the proper court, including contact information, judges, and courthouse details.
How do I find my court’s contact information and location?
Many people ask how to reach the court quickly. Fort Bend County provides a detailed court directory listing addresses, phone numbers, and office hours for each court. The courthouse details, including physical addresses and email contacts, are available online or at the clerk’s office. The Fort Bend County Justice Center in Richmond houses multiple courts, offering access to filing services, legal resources, and updated notices for hearings or procedural changes. This directory is essential for finding the right court and preparing for court appearances.
How can I access court records?
Accessing court records is a frequent concern for residents seeking general information about civil, criminal, property, marriage, or divorce cases for personal reference. Fort Bend County maintains public records that can be requested in person atcourthouseusese in some cases, accessed online through the court’s official portal. Certified copies are available for official purposes, and records support legal research and verification of property ownership. Certain records may require identification or a small fee to obtain, and using the online portal can save time for users handling routine requests.
Can I file documents online, or do I need to appear in person?
Filing documents is a common question for court users. Fort Bend County offers eFiling services for civil, probate, and family cases, allowing petitions, motions, or affidavits to be submitted electronically. Users receive immediate confirmation and can track case progress online. However, some filings, such as initial misdemeanor charges or specific hearings, still require a personal appearance at the courthouse. Checking the court’s guidelines or contacting the clerk’s office ensures that documents are filed correctly.
Is there a remote or virtual hearing option?
Some residents wonder if attending court in person is always necessary. Fort Bend County courts offer remote hearings for certain cases, including civil, family, and probate matters. Video conferencing is commonly available, while minor procedural matters may allow telephonic appearances. Each court provides instructions for remote participation in notices or through the clerk’s office. Availability varies by case type, so confirming with the court is recommended to ensure hearings proceed smoothly.