Travis County Court Records
What Is Travis County Court Records
Travis County court records encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's judicial system. These records consist of comprehensive case files that include pleadings, motions, orders, judgments, transcripts, exhibits, and sentencing information. Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 51.303, court records are maintained as official documentation of judicial proceedings and decisions.
Court records are distinct from other public records such as:
- Property records (deeds, liens, mortgages)
- Vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates)
- Business records (licenses, permits, incorporations)
In Travis County, court records are maintained by several courts within the judicial hierarchy:
- District Courts (civil and criminal matters)
- County Courts at Law (misdemeanors, civil cases under $250,000)
- Probate Court (wills, estates, guardianships)
- Justice of the Peace Courts (small claims, traffic violations)
- Municipal Courts (city ordinance violations, Class C misdemeanors)
- Family Courts (divorce, child custody, support matters)
These records document proceedings across various case types including civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family law matters, probate proceedings, and traffic violations. The Travis County court system maintains these records in accordance with state retention requirements and accessibility standards.
Are Court Records Public In Travis County
Court records in Travis County are generally accessible to the public under the Texas Public Information Act and the common law right of access to judicial records. According to Texas Government Code § 552.022, court records are categorized as public information subject to disclosure unless specifically exempted by law.
The following court records are typically available for public inspection:
- Civil case files (complaints, answers, motions, orders)
- Criminal case files (post-charging documents)
- Judgments and final orders
- Docket sheets and case indices
- Hearing and trial schedules
- Court calendars
However, certain records may be restricted or sealed pursuant to statutory provisions or court orders. These include:
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Mental health proceedings
- Adoption records
- Cases involving minors as victims
- Records sealed by judicial order
- Information deemed confidential under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 76a
Federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas (which includes Travis County) are governed by federal access rules and are available through the federal PACER system, separate from county-maintained records.
The Texas Judicial Branch has established rules regarding public access to court records, balancing transparency with privacy concerns and the administration of justice.
How To Find Court Records in Travis County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Travis County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county currently maintains multiple systems for record retrieval based on the court of jurisdiction and record type.
For District Court Records (Civil, Family, and Criminal):
Travis County District Clerk
1000 Guadalupe, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 854-9457
Travis County District Clerk
- Visit the District Clerk's office during business hours (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday)
- Complete a records request form specifying case number, party names, and documents needed
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay applicable fees ($1.00 per page for copies, $5.00 for certification)
- For remote requests, submit a written request via mail with payment
For County Court Records:
Travis County Clerk's Office
5501 Airport Boulevard, Austin, TX 78751
(512) 854-9188
Travis County Clerk
- Visit the County Clerk's office during business hours (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday)
- Provide case information at the public service counter
- Request specific documents for viewing or copying
- Pay required fees for document reproduction
For Justice of the Peace Court Records:
Travis County Justice of the Peace Courts
(Locations vary by precinct)
Main Contact: (512) 854-9479
Travis County JP Courts
- Contact the specific Justice of the Peace court where the case was filed
- Provide case number or party names
- Request document access or copies
- Pay applicable fees
Written requests for court records may be submitted by mail with the following information:
- Case number and/or party names
- Specific documents requested
- Contact information
- Payment for applicable fees
- Self-addressed stamped envelope for return documents
Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 51.318, fees for court records are established by statute and local rule.
How To Look Up Court Records in Travis County Online?
Travis County provides several online portals for accessing court records electronically. These systems vary by court type and offer different levels of document access.
For District and County Court Records:
- Access the Travis County District Clerk Case Information & Records portal
- Select the appropriate case type (Civil, Family, or Criminal)
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, date range)
- Review search results showing case summary information
- Note that while case information is viewable online, document images may require in-person access or formal request
For Justice of the Peace Court Records:
- Navigate to the Travis County Justice of the Peace Judicial Records system
- Select the desired record type (Criminal, Civil, Family, or Probate)
- Enter search parameters
- View case information, hearing dates, and disposition status
- Note that document images are generally not available through this system
For Criminal Court Records:
- Visit the Travis County Criminal Courts website
- Access the docket search function
- Enter defendant name or case number
- Review case status, upcoming court dates, and basic case information
Additional online resources include:
- Travis County Law Library Court Records Search for guidance on accessing various court records
- Texas Judicial Branch Public Court Records Search for statewide case information
Users should note that online systems typically provide case indices and basic information rather than complete document images. Full document access may require in-person visits or formal requests to the appropriate clerk's office.
How To Search Travis County Court Records for Free?
Texas law provides for free public inspection of court records at courthouse facilities. According to Texas Government Code § 552.021, members of the public have the right to inspect public information, including court records, during regular business hours without charge.
Free access options in Travis County include:
In-Person Inspection:
- Visit the appropriate clerk's office during business hours
- Request to view specific case files
- Examine documents at designated public viewing areas
- No fee is charged for inspection (copying fees apply if reproductions are requested)
Free Online Resources:
- Basic case information is available at no cost through the Travis County District Clerk's website
- Justice of the Peace court records can be searched without charge via the Odyssey Public Access portal
- Criminal court dockets are accessible through the Travis County Criminal Courts website
Travis County Law Library:
314 W. 11th Street, Room 140, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 854-8677
Travis County Law Library
The Law Library provides public access computers for searching court records and legal research at no cost during regular business hours.
While inspection is free, fees apply for document reproduction, certification, and expedited services. Current fee schedules are posted at each clerk's office and on their respective websites.
What's Included in a Travis County Court Record?
Travis County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings. The specific contents vary by case type but generally include:
For Civil Cases:
- Petition/Complaint (initiating document)
- Citation/Summons
- Defendant's Answer
- Motions and responses
- Discovery documents (if filed with the court)
- Court orders and rulings
- Final judgment
- Post-judgment motions
- Appeal documents (if applicable)
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
For Criminal Cases:
- Indictment or Information
- Arrest warrant or probable cause affidavit
- Bond information
- Defendant's plea
- Pretrial motions
- Court orders
- Trial transcripts (if requested)
- Verdict forms
- Sentencing documents
- Probation terms (if applicable)
- Appeal notices and briefs
For Family Law Cases:
- Petition for divorce or custody
- Temporary orders
- Financial disclosure statements
- Parenting plans
- Child support worksheets
- Property division agreements
- Final decree
- Modification requests
For Probate Cases:
- Will (if applicable)
- Application for probate
- Inventory of assets
- Claims against the estate
- Executor/Administrator reports
- Distribution orders
- Estate closing documents
Each case file also contains a docket sheet that chronologically lists all actions taken in the case, including filings, hearings, and judicial rulings. Court records may also include transcripts of proceedings, though these are typically prepared only upon request and payment of court reporter fees.
How Long Does Travis County Keep Court Records?
Travis County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under authority of Texas Government Code § 441.158. Retention periods vary by record type and case disposition.
Standard retention periods include:
Civil Case Records:
- Cases with judgments: 20 years after final disposition
- Dismissed cases: 5 years after dismissal
- Appeals: 3 years after mandate received
Criminal Case Records:
- Felony cases: 75 years after final disposition
- Misdemeanor cases: 5 years after final disposition
- Capital cases: Permanent retention
- Expunged records: Destroyed pursuant to court order
Family Law Records:
- Divorce cases: 25 years after judgment
- Child custody matters: Until youngest child reaches age 18 plus 10 years
- Adoption records: Permanent retention
Probate Records:
- Wills: Permanent retention
- Estate administration: 10 years after closing
Justice of the Peace Records:
- Civil cases: 4 years after judgment
- Criminal cases: 5 years after final disposition
- Traffic cases: 6 years after final disposition
Court dockets, indices, and judgment records are typically retained permanently as they serve as finding aids and official summaries of court actions. Electronic records are subject to the same retention requirements as paper records.
After the retention period expires, records may be transferred to archives or destroyed in accordance with approved disposition procedures. Historical or precedent-setting cases may be designated for permanent preservation regardless of standard retention periods.
Types of Courts In Travis County
Travis County's judicial system consists of multiple court levels with varying jurisdictions. Each court type handles specific case categories as defined by Texas law.
Travis County District Courts
1000 Guadalupe Street, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 854-9300
Travis County District Courts
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Travis County has 14 district courts (civil, criminal, and family) with general jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $250,000, family law cases, and certain appeals.
Travis County Probate Court
1000 Guadalupe Street, Room 217, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 854-9258
Travis County Probate Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Probate Court handles wills, estate administration, guardianships, and mental health commitments.
Travis County Courts at Law
1000 Guadalupe Street, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 854-9779
Travis County Courts at Law
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Seven County Courts at Law handle civil cases valued between $20,000 and $250,000, misdemeanor criminal cases, and appeals from justice and municipal courts.
Travis County Justice of the Peace Courts
(Five precincts with multiple locations)
Main Contact: (512) 854-9479
Travis County Justice of the Peace Courts
Hours vary by location
Justice Courts handle small claims (up to $20,000), evictions, traffic cases, Class C misdemeanors, and preliminary matters in criminal cases.
Austin Municipal Court
700 E. 7th Street, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 974-4800
Austin Municipal Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Municipal Courts handle city ordinance violations, Class C misdemeanors, and traffic offenses within city limits.
The court hierarchy in Texas proceeds from Municipal/Justice Courts to County Courts at Law to District Courts, with appeals going to the Court of Appeals (3rd District for Travis County), and ultimately to the Texas Supreme Court (civil) or Court of Criminal Appeals (criminal).
What Types of Cases Do Travis County Courts Hear?
Travis County courts adjudicate a wide range of legal matters according to their statutory jurisdiction. Case assignments are determined by case type, monetary value, and severity of charges.
District Courts handle:
- Felony criminal prosecutions
- Civil lawsuits with amounts in controversy exceeding $250,000
- Divorce and family law matters
- Child custody and support cases
- Property disputes
- Complex commercial litigation
- Administrative agency appeals
- Injunctions and equitable relief
County Courts at Law hear:
- Civil cases with amounts in controversy between $20,000 and $250,000
- Misdemeanor criminal cases (Class A and B)
- Eminent domain proceedings
- Appeals from justice and municipal courts
- Mental health commitments
- Some family law matters (concurrent with District Courts)
Probate Court adjudicates:
- Wills and estate administration
- Guardianships for incapacitated persons
- Mental health proceedings
- Trust administration disputes
- Adult protective services cases
Justice of the Peace Courts process:
- Small claims cases (up to $20,000)
- Eviction proceedings
- Debt claims
- Traffic violations
- Class C misdemeanors
- Preliminary hearings in criminal cases
- Peace bond applications
- Magistrate functions
Municipal Courts handle:
- City ordinance violations
- Class C misdemeanors within city limits
- Traffic offenses
- Parking violations
- Code enforcement cases
- Limited magistrate functions
Specialized dockets exist within these courts for certain case types, including:
- Drug court programs
- Veterans treatment courts
- Mental health dockets
- Family violence court
- DWI court
Case assignment follows jurisdictional boundaries established by the Texas Government Code and local administrative rules.
How To Find a Court Docket In Travis County
Court dockets in Travis County provide schedules of hearings, trials, and other proceedings. These calendars are accessible through multiple channels depending on the court type.
For District and County Courts:
- Visit the Travis County District Clerk's website
- Select "Case Information" or "Court Dockets"
- Choose the appropriate court from the dropdown menu
- Enter the search date or date range
- Review the list of scheduled proceedings
For Criminal Court dockets:
- Access the Travis County Criminal Courts website
- Select "Docket Search" from the navigation menu
- Enter search criteria (date, court number, case type)
- View scheduled hearings and case status information
For Justice of the Peace Court calendars:
- Navigate to the Travis County Justice of the Peace Judicial Records portal
- Select "Court Calendar" from the main menu
- Choose the desired court location
- Select calendar date and hearing type
- Review scheduled proceedings
Physical docket sheets are also posted daily outside courtrooms and at clerk's offices. For specific case settings, parties may contact:
Travis County District Court Administration
1000 Guadalupe Street, Room 300, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 854-9300
Travis County District Court Administration
Travis County County Court Administration
1000 Guadalupe Street, Room 222, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 854-9679
Travis County County Court Administration
Attorneys registered with the electronic filing system can access docket information through the attorney portal. Court coordinators can provide additional information about specific docket settings upon request.
Which Courts in Travis County Are Not Courts of Record?
In the Texas judicial system, a "court of record" maintains official transcripts of proceedings and has the authority to fine or imprison for contempt. Courts not of record typically do not maintain verbatim records of proceedings unless specifically requested by a party.
According to Texas Government Code § 27.042, Justice of the Peace Courts in Travis County are not courts of record. These courts include:
Travis County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1
4717 Heflin Lane, Suite 107, Austin, TX 78721
(512) 854-7700
Travis County JP Precinct 1
Travis County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2
10409 Burnet Road, Suite 180, Austin, TX 78758
(512) 854-4545
Travis County JP Precinct 2
Travis County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3
8656 B West Highway 71, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78735
(512) 854-6763
Travis County JP Precinct 3
Travis County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4
4011 McKinney Falls Parkway, Suite 1200, Austin, TX 78744
(512) 854-9479
Travis County JP Precinct 4
Travis County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5
1000 Guadalupe Street, Room 112, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 854-9049
Travis County JP Precinct 5
Additionally, Municipal Courts in Travis County are not courts of record unless specifically designated as "Municipal Courts of Record" by city ordinance. The Austin Municipal Court is a court of record, while some smaller municipalities within Travis County may operate courts not of record.
The practical significance of a court not being a court of record is that appeals from these courts are handled de novo (new trial) rather than as a review of the record. When a case is appealed from a Justice of the Peace Court to a County Court at Law, the entire case is retried as if the original proceeding never occurred.
Lookup Court Records in Travis County
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