Montgomery County Court Records Lookup

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Montgomery County Courts

Montgomery County is located in Southeast Texas and has a population of about 750,000. This figure makes up approximately 2.5% of the total Texas population. The county ranks as one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas, and it is the 11th largest county in Texas. The City of Conroe is the county seat.

Montgomery County is equipped with a systematic and multifaceted trial court framework that maintains transparency in legal affairs. It is also supported by a judiciary that resolves cases equitably and focuses on swift case resolution. Montgomery County records approximately 270,000 cases each year, with 140,000 of those cases disposed of annually. The yearly caseload includes approximately 146,000 criminal filings, 35,000 civil filings, and 1,000 juvenile filings.

The City of Conroe hosts the majority of the courts in Montgomery County, such as the District Court, the Constitutional County Court, and the County Courts at Law Court. However, the Justice of the Peace Courts and the Municipal Courts are located in other cities. These courts ensure access to the judicial system across Montgomery County. The following is a list of the court types in Montgomery County, including their jurisdictions:

  • Montgomery County District Courts hear a variety of cases, such as replevin actions, landlord-tenant cases, and felonies.
  • Montgomery County Constitutional County Court handles more serious misdemeanor cases, probate, and minor civil lawsuits.
  • Montgomery County County Courts at Law have jurisdiction over juvenile cases and civil matters in claims up to $200,000.
  • Montgomery County Justice Courts have exclusive jurisdiction over misdemeanor cases.
  • Montgomery County Municipal Courts are courts of limited jurisdiction that exercise power over lower-level crimes such as municipal code violations.

How To Access Montgomery County Court Records

Under the Texas Information Public Information Act, court records are made open to the public. The Public Information Act (PIA), codified in Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code, was originally known as the Texas Open Records Act and was passed in 1973. The Texas Public Information Act grants the public the right to inspect records held by state and local government bodies. This applies to written, electronic, and recorded materials related to official government business.

However, certain records are withheld from the public, meaning that there is a non-disclosure of such records. This is to protect the privacy of the subject(s) of record. Some of these confidential records include medical and juvenile records, as well as those that may interfere with criminal investigations. However, individuals are required to provide a valid ID and case number to access court records. Court records may be obtained in Montgomery County via the following methods:

Online

Individuals may access court records online via the Odyssey Case Portal. This platform enables the public to find civil, probate, family, and probate cases. To narrow a search. They may be required to provide the full name of parties, case number, or a filing date range.

Additionally, the public may source court records, most especially current ones, on CourtCaseFinder. The platform provides court case information, although interested persons are required to pay certain fees for access.

Also, the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) platform assists the public in federal case lookups in Montgomery County. Cases that involve the violation of federal bankruptcy laws and civil matters may be found via this platform. Although users are required to register for an account on the PACER platform, they are required to pay particular fees to access federal court records.

In-Person

Members of the public may find court records in person by visiting the appropriate courthouse in Montgomery County. Records may be found in the custody of the clerk of court (coc).Members of the public may find records faster using the public self-service terminals available at individual courthouses. In addition, requesters may be required to pay a certain fee to access records. Printed copies cost $1 and an additional $5 per document for certified copies.

Old and Archived Records

Archived and historical records document legal decisions issued by courts. This provides a foundation for legal practitioners to reference past rulings in future decisions. Records are archived for several reasons, particularly when they become inactive. Consequently, this ensures that they remain accessible for future reference. The Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) oversees the preservation and accessibility of archived records in Montgomery County.

The TSLAC portal stores microfilm records from Montgomery County, which include an index of marriage records between 1838 and 1916. Also, the public may find probate minutes (1838-1906), tax rolls, and civil court minutes on this platform. To obtain records in person, the address of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission is located at 1201 Brazos St., Austin, TX 78701. Interested persons may also call (512) 463-5474 or submit a mail request at P.O. Box 12927, Austin, TX 78711 to obtain archived records.

How to File a Case in Montgomery County

There are several factors to consider when filing a case in Montgomery County. The process of filing a case in the county follows a structured procedure that aligns with the Texas state laws and court rules. While the filing process may be complex, providing the public with guidelines is essential to ensure they can navigate the process effectively.

A case may be filed via an online filing system, mail submission, or in person. Although most cases require mandatory electronic filings in Montgomery County, there are certain fees that are required before litigants may file their case in the county. JP Court filing fees may range from $54 for filing a small claims case to $204 for a Writ of Garnishment. The fee structure for filing cases in the District Court, County Courts, and JP Courts is available on the Texas Judicial Branch website. A new civil case, such as a family law case, may be filed for $213. Probate, guardianship, and mental health cases are filed for $137 in Montgomery County. Residents of Montgomery County may find the following steps useful when filing a case:

  • Identify the case type: This involves determining the type of case you wish to file-civil, criminal, small claims, or probate.
  • Choose the appropriate court: Litigants are required to file their cases where appropriate. Civil and family cases are filed with the District Court Clerk. If a case is filed in the wrong court, it may lead to repaying filing fees and re-serving documents. Therefore, it is necessary to double-check the type of case.
  • Prepare the required documents: Interested persons are required to draft a petition stating their claims.
  • Utilize the E-filing system for case filing: The official e-filing system for Montgomery County residents to file a case is on the eFileTexas.gov website. On this platform, litigants may select an electronic filing service provider (EFSP) to submit their documents.
  • Pay filing fees: Filing fees vary by case type and court. Fees may be paid online via eFileTexas or at an individual courthouse in person.
  • Serve the defendant: When a case is filed, the opposing party may be formally notified before proceeding with a lawsuit. This notification may be carried out by a process server, a constable, or via certified mail.

Legal Help and Self-Help Resources

The United States judicial system serves several fundamental objectives for the public. It keeps the public informed about legal issues and streamlines access to justice. Additionally, numerous programs are available for individuals navigating the U.S. legal system. Whether it relates to civil, criminal, family, probate, or small claims cases, there are both online and physical resources readily accessible to support litigants throughout the process.

However, certain barriers may prevent individuals from fully accessing the legal system. These challenges often include limited understanding of court procedures and financial constraints. Pro se litigants and income-eligible individuals may utilize the resources provided by the state or county courts when presenting their case in court. These may include self-help and legal help tools, which may be accessed through pro bono panels and legal aid organizations.

Also, there are other resources available, as certain courts provide assistance tailored to the specific needs of litigants. Indigents who are unable to afford court fees may complete the Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs Form. Furthermore, they are required to attach their proof of income, sign under penalty of perjury, and submit the form when filing a case. However, if they qualify, the court may bear the expenses of filing such a case. Montgomery County residents may utilize any of the following resources to obtain legal representation in court proceedings:

Legal Aid for Income-Eligible Litigants

  • Lone Star Legal Aid Conroe Office: They offer free civil legal services to low-income individuals and families. In addition, they handle consumer rights, family law cases, and provide legal assistance for eviction cases.
  • Montgomery County Law Library: It provides legal research tools, forms, and pro se services for self-represented litigants.
  • Montgomery County Women's Center: It offers legal advocacy, emergency shelter, and counseling for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Individual and group counseling are also provided to primary and secondary survivors of domestic violence.

Self-Help Legal Resources

  • Texas Law Help: This organization supports Texas residents by providing free legal information, forms, and guides for various case types. These include family law, housing, and probate cases. It is designed to assist self-represented litigants across Texas.
  • The Montgomery County Clerk's Self-Help website provides links to the following:
    • Texas Office of Court Administration Self-Help Center
    • Lawyer Referral Services
    • Information on Legal Aid Offices
    • Court-affiliated self-help center serving Montgomery County

Community-Based Legal & Crisis Support

  • Community Assistance Center (CAC): They provide resources that assist Montgomery County residents in meeting their basic needs. These include utility help, food, and clothing. They also assist in crisis intervention, disaster relief, and provide housing support.
  • Walker Legal Resources: This organization provides independent paralegal services and coaching for self-represented individuals. Interested persons may contact them at (281) 533-5225.

Types of Courts in Montgomery County, Texas

Montgomery County is home to multiple courts established to uphold the legal rights of residents and play a vital role in ensuring access to justice. The courts have distinct jurisdictions, with some handling civil, criminal, traffic, and juvenile cases.

District Courts in Montgomery County

Montgomery County 9th District Court

Jurisdiction: It handles various types of cases, ranging from family law, juvenile, probate, civil, and criminal cases.

Contact Information:

207 West Phillips

Suite 306

Conroe, Texas 77301

Phone: (936) 539-7866

Fax: (936) 788-8381

Montgomery County 221st District Court

Jurisdiction: It presides over felony criminal cases, probate, juvenile, and family law matters.

Contact Information:

207 West Phillips

Suite 300

Phone: (936) 539-7808

Fax: (936) 788-8364

Montgomery County 284th District Court

Jurisdiction: This is a trial court handling wills, estate administration, and guardianship cases. It also hears cases involving legal issues related to minors.

Contact Information:

301 North Main Street

Suite 201

Conroe, TX 77301

Phone: (936) 539-7861

Montgomery County 359th District Court

Jurisdiction: Part of its jurisdiction involves hearing probate, family law matters, and civil cases.

Contact Information:

207 West Phillips

Suite 305

Conroe, Texas 77301

Phone: (936) 539-7900

Fax: (936) 538-8187

Montgomery County 410th District Court

Jurisdiction: It handles a wide spectrum of matters, such as civil cases involving claims of more than $500 and juvenile cases.

Contact Information:

301 North Main Street

Suite 210

Conroe, TX 77301

Phone: (936) 539-7860

Montgomery County 418th District Court

Jurisdiction: This court primarily focuses on family law matters such as adoption, termination of parental rights, spousal support, and child visitation cases.

Contact Information:

301 North Main Street

Suite 217

Conroe, TX 77301

Phone: (936) 538-3618

Fax: (936) 538-3660

Montgomery County 435th District Court

Jurisdiction: The Montgomery County 435th District Court is a court of general jurisdiction. It handles felony criminal, family law, probate, civil litigation, juvenile, and family law matters.

Contact Information:

207 W. Phillips

Suite - 307 Offices

Suite 302 - Courtroom

Conroe, Texas 77301

Phone: (936) 538-3532

Constitutional County Courts in Montgomery County

Montgomery County Constitutional Court

Jurisdiction: It handles Class A and B misdemeanors. Furthermore, it hears probate matters and minor civil cases where the amount in controversy is between $200 and $20,000, excluding interest.

Contact Information:

210 West Davis

PO Box 959

Conroe, TX 77305

Phone: (936) 539-7885

Fax: (936) 760-6990

County Courts at Law in Montgomery County

Montgomery County Court at Law No. 1

Jurisdiction: It shares concurrent jurisdiction with the District Court over civil matters with claims between $500 and $250,000.

Contact Information:

210 West Davis

Ste. 201

Conroe, TX 77301

Phone: (936) 539-7831

Fax: (936) 538-8090

Montgomery County Court at Law No. 2

Jurisdiction: It shares jurisdiction with the District Courts over probate cases.

Contact Information:

210 West Davis

Ste. 201

Conroe, TX 77305

Phone: (936) 539-7885

Fax: (936) 760-6990

Montgomery County Court at Law No. 3

Jurisdiction: The Montgomery County Court at Law No. 3 reviews appeals from the Justice of the Peace Courts and Municipal Courts.

Contact Information:

301 North Main

Suite 110

Conroe, TX 77301

Phone: (936) 539-7973

Fax: (936) 760-6942

Montgomery County Court at Law No. 4

Jurisdiction: It handles legal cases under both exclusive and concurrent jurisdictions. It shares jurisdiction over family law cases with the District Court. It also has exclusive authority over probate and mental health commitment cases.

Contact Information:

210 West Davis Street

Suite 400

Conroe, TX 77301

Phone: (936) 538-8174

Fax: (936) 760-6904

Montgomery County Court at Law No. 5

Jurisdiction: It primarily hears misdemeanor cases, including DWI, and shares concurrent jurisdiction over family law cases such as child custody cases.

Contact Information:

210 West Davis

Suite 250 Conroe

TX 77301

Phone: (936) 538-3615

Fax: (936) 538-3617

Justice Courts in Montgomery County

Montgomery County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1

Jurisdiction: This is a lower-level trial court that hears eviction cases.

Contact Information:

19380 Hwy 105 West

Ste. 507

Montgomery, TX 77356

Phone: (936) 788-8374

Fax: (936) 788-8379

Alternatively, at the below address;

300 S Danville

Willis, TX 77378

Phone: (936) 539-7801

Fax: (936) 788-8399

Montgomery County Justice of the Peace Precinct 2

Jurisdiction: The JP Court Precinct 2 presides over school attendance violations committed by minors and traffic ticket cases.

Contact Information:

2241 North 1st Street

Conroe, TX 77301

Phone: (936) 538-3788

Fax: (936) 538-7732

Montgomery County Justice of the Peace Precinct 3

Jurisdiction: It issues warrants and conducts preliminary hearings. It also handles civil matters up to $20,000 in claims.

Contact Information:

1520 Lake Front Circle

Ste. 100

The Woodlands, TX 77380

Phone: (281) 364-4284

Fax: (281) 367-3947

Montgomery County Justice of the Peace Precinct 4

Jurisdiction: It handles Class C misdemeanors and eviction lawsuits.

Contact Information:

21130 Legion Road

Suite 100

New Caney, Texas 77357

Phone: (281) 577-8970

Montgomery County Justice of the Peace Precinct 5

Jurisdiction: The Montgomery County Justice of the Peace Courts handles truancy cases.

Contact Information:

19100 Unity Park Drive

Magnolia, TX 77355

Phone: (281) 259-6494

Fax: (281) 259-6456

Municipal Courts in Montgomery County

Conroe Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: The Conroe Municipal Court is a court of no record that handles Class C misdemeanors and violations of city ordinances.

Contact Information:

700 Old Montgomery Road

PO Box 3066

Conroe, TX 77305

Phone: (936) 522-3380

Fax: (936) 522-3396

Cut and Shoot Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: This court issues warrants and sets bail. It also oversees compliance with court orders such as community service or deferred disposition agreements.

Contact Information:

14391 Hwy 105 E

PO Box 7364

Cut and Shoot, TX 77306

Phone: (936) 264-3100

Magnolia Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: The Magnolia Municipal Court handles property code infractions and traffic violations. Furthermore, it schedules bench trials for Class C misdemeanor cases.

Contact Information:

18111 Buddy Riley Blvd.

Magnolia, TX 77354

Phone: (832) 934-0605

Fax: (281) 259-9963

Montgomery Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: It issues arrest warrants to offenders who fail to appear at a court hearing. It also conducts arraignments for ordinance violations within its city limits.

Contact Information:

101 Old Plantersville Road

PO Box 708

Montgomery, TX 77356

Phone: (936) 597-6866

Fax: (936) 597-7989

Oak Ridge North Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: This court issues arrest warrants. It also handles traffic and parking citations issued by the Oak Ridge North Police Department.

Contact Information:

27424 Robinson Road

Oak Ridge North, TX 77385

Phone: (281) 292-8736

Fax: (281) 364-7168

Panorama Village Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: It presides over Class C misdemeanors and city ordinance violations.

Contact Information:

99 Hiwon Drive

Panorama Village, TX 77304

Phone: (936) 856-2821

Patton Village Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: Patton Village Municipal Court handles minor offenses such as public intoxication and petty theft offenses. It also hears traffic and curfew violation cases.

Contact Information:

16940 Main Street

Patton Village, TX 77372

Phone: (281) 689-9511

Roman Forest Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: It is responsible for adjudicating cases involving juvenile offenders and traffic violations.

Contact Information:

2430 Roman Forest Blvd.

Roman Forest, TX 77357

Phone: (281) 399-7227

Shenandoah Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: It processes citations issued within the city of Shenandoah. Also, it adjudicates juvenile cases.

Contact Information:

29955 I-45 N

Shenandoah, TX 77381

Phone: (281) 298-5522

Splendora Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: This court's responsibilities include the collection of fines, hearing traffic citation cases, and issuing warrants.

Contact Information:

PO Drawer 1087

Splendora, TX 77372

Phone: (281) 399-1352

Stagecoach Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: It handles Class "C" misdemeanors, including traffic, parking, city code, and other fine-only state law violations.

Contact Information:

16930 Boot Hill Road

Stagecoach, TX 77355

Phone: (281) 259-2225

Fax: (281) 259-7720

Willis Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: This court handles cases involving minors. It has jurisdiction over alcohol and tobacco violations involving persons under the age of 18.

Contact Information:

200 N Bell

Willis, TX 77378

Phone: (936) 856-4611

Fax: (936) 890-1246

Woodbranch Village Municipal Court

Jurisdiction: It handles legal matters that arise from the violation of city ordinances, such as noise complaints and animal control issues.

Contact Information:

58A Woodbranch Drive

New Caney, TX 77357

Phone: (281) 399-2300

Fax: (281) 399-8300

United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas

The Houston division of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas handles federal cases in Montgomery County.

Jurisdiction: Oversees matters such as bankruptcy, civil rights, and federal criminal cases within its geographical area.

Contact Information:

Bob Casey U.S. Courthouse

515 Rusk Avenue

Houston, TX 77002

Phone: (713) 250-5500

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hudson County Courts

Are Court Records Public in Montgomery County?

Yes. According to the Texas Public Information Act and Rule 12 of the Rules of Judicial Administration, court records are generally public in Montgomery County. However, certain records are confidential. These records are protected under Texas law to safeguard the privacy and safety of individuals. Such records include adoption records, sensitive personal data (social security numbers), and those involving victims of human trafficking.

How Do I Search for a Criminal Case in Montgomery County?

The District Courts in Montgomery County are responsible for felony criminal prosecutions and handle all indictable offenses. An index of criminal case records may be found on the Case Inquiry Portal managed by the District Court Clerk's Office. These records are available in real time; however, requesters need to be registered to access the portal. In addition, individuals are required to pay a $1 fee for copies of records. However, certified copies cost an additional $5.

Can I File a Small Claims Case Online?

Residents of Montgomery County may file small claims cases online, especially for cases that may involve simple debt recovery and minor property damages. Interested parties may file small claims cases in the precinct where they live at the Justice of the Peace Court. The official E-filing portal for Texas courts allows for small claims filing. However, individuals are required to confirm with the specific Justice Court, as not all precincts allow online filing. Defendants may be required to provide their full legal name, address, and include a description of the claim and amount sought (usually under $20,000) when submitting a petition. A filing fee is often required, with amounts typically between $30 and $75, depending on the small claims total.

Do Montgomery County Courts Offer Public Computers for Case Searches?

Public access terminals are located at the District Court Clerk's Office in Conroe. Interested persons are allowed to search civil, probate, family, and criminal cases on these public computer terminals. In addition, certain public terminals also offer printing options for a small fee. Individuals may also utilize the help of a court staff member to search cases if assistance is needed.

How Do I Appeal a Court Decision in Montgomery County?

Appeals focus on legal errors and are not based on new evidence. Appealing a court's decision in Montgomery County follows the Texas Rule of Appellate Procedure. To appeal a case, you are required to file a notice of appeal, usually 30 days after the final judgment is signed. Furthermore, you may request a transcript of the trial proceedings and submit a written brief that identifies legal errors in your trial. Finally, a decision may be made by the appellate court, which may be to reverse the initial judgment, affirm it, or remand the case for further proceedings.

How Do I Obtain a Copy of a Divorce Record in Montgomery County?

The District Courts in Montgomery County have jurisdiction over cases involving the dissolution of marriage. The District Court Clerk's Office maintains all divorce decrees and related family law documents. To obtain a divorce record, interested persons may visit the District Court Clerk's Office at 501 North Thompson, Suite 401, Conroe, TX 77301 with a driver's license or any other means of identification. Requesters may be required to provide information such as the full names of both spouses, the date of divorce, and the case number (if available) to locate records. Certified copies of divorce records are typically available upon request and usually cost $5.

Montgomery County, TX - Courthouses

Montgomery County District Court

Court Type: District Court
Street Address: 301 North Main Street
Website URL: https://www.mctx.org/departments/departments_d_-_f/district_courts/index.php
Phone: 936-539-7855
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Judge: Hon. Tracy A. Gilbert
Judge Phone: 936-538-3618
Judge Fax / Email: 936-538-3660
Clerk: Melisa Miller
Clerk Email: districtclerk@mctx.org
Parking: showing free parking within walking distance to the Jury Assembly Room
Restrictions: YES! No guns/ammo, large chemical sprays, Tasers, Knuckles/cat defense or illegal weapons, etc) are allowed in the Jury Assembly Room or Courthouse/Courthouse annexes
Forms & Filing: Forms
Divisions / Services: Adult Probation
Dockets / Schedule / Calendar: Calendar & Records
Jury Service: Jury Information
Languages: Multiple
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Government-Organization/Montgomery-County-District-Clerks-Office-1282959528540005/
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The Woodlands Municipal Court

Court Type: Municipal Court
Street Address: 1520 Lake Front Cir
Website URL: https://www.thewoodlandstx.com/courthouse/
Phone: (281) 292 -3325
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Conroe Municipal Court

Court Type: Municipal Court
Street Address: 2300 Plantation Dr
Website URL: https://www.cityofconroe.org/departments/municipal-court
Phone: (936) 522-3380
Fax: (936) 522-3396
Hours: 8AM - 5:30PM (M-Th), 8AM - 5PM (F)
Judge: Judge Davis
Clerk Phone: (936) 522-3380
Email: courts@cityofconroe.org
About / Additional Info: For people to feel they have been treated fairly and with respect. To promote traffic and public safety. To handle each case efficiently and without prejudice. To make a positive impact in our community.
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Montgomery County, TX - Sheriff's Office

Montgomery County Sheriff's Office

Location Type: Sheriff's Office
Street Address: 1 Criminal Justice Dr
Phone: 936-760-5800
Fax: 936-538-7797
Website URL: https://www.mctxsheriff.org/
Jail/Corrections: https://www.mctxsheriff.org/divisions/jail_division/index.php
Inmates: jailroster.mctx.org
Sex Offenders: https://www.mctxsheriff.org/divisions/executive_division/sex-offenders.php
Public Records: https://www.mctxsheriff.org/divisions/executive_division/warrants_and_records/index.php
Forms & Documents: https://www.mctxsheriff.org/document_center/index.php
Sheriff: Rand Henderson
Sheriff Phone: 936-760-5800
Sheriff Fax: 936-538-7797
Sheriff Email: mcsomedia@mctx.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MCTXSheriff
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MCTXSheriff
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/montgomery-county-district-attorney
About/Additional Info: The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is organized into 11 divisions. With the exception of the Homeland Security Division, headed by the Chief Deputy, each division is headed by a Major, a Captain, or Civilian Director. All Captains and the IT Director report to the Chief Deputy. The Chief Deputy, Finance Director and Majors report directly to the Sheriff. Click here for a pdf version of our organization chart.
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montgomery_County,_Texas
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