Dallas County Court records sit under the care of two clerk offices serving residents across North Texas. County Clerk John F. Warren oversees civil, probate, and criminal misdemeanor filings at the George L. Allen, Sr. Courts Building, located at 600 Commerce Street in downtown Dallas. District Clerk Felicia Pitre maintains felony case records at the Frank Crowley Courts Building, found at 133 N. Riverfront Blvd. Both locations share Dallas County Court hours from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, except for court-approved holidays like the Juneteenth closure observed June 19, 2026. Dallas County Court phone numbers include (214) 653-7099 for the Civil Division. Free Dallas County Court case lookup on the online portal lets you search criminal case history dating back to 1975. Civil matters filed after specific years and misdemeanor criminal cases from 2011 onward can be viewed at no cost. For certified copies or older closed records, in-person visits or written requests remain necessary. Standard copy fees run $1.00 per page, with an extra $5 per case when certification is needed. Email requests for records go to department-specific addresses, though Central Records email access remains temporarily suspended following a facility move announced on April 6, 2026.
Dallas County Court e-filing through eFileTexas lets attorneys and self-represented litigants submit documents around the clock. Attorneys must file electronically. Self-represented filers may submit in person, by mail, or online. Filing fees follow state statutes and vary by case type; review the Civil Fee Schedule on the county clerk website for exact amounts. Five County Courts at Law handle civil matters where the amount in controversy exceeds $500, with no upper limit on damages. Each court has a coordinator reachable by phone for Dallas County Court schedule questions, hearing requests, and trial settings. Dallas County small claims court matters, Dallas County family court filings, Dallas County probate court actions, and Dallas County traffic court cases all route through these divisions. Dallas County Court forms and local rules appear on the official portal, alongside Texas Rules of Civil Procedure references. Interpreter services, ADA accommodations, and language access support remain available by contacting your assigned court coordinator. Remote hearing options and Dallas County Court mediation programs can resolve disputes without in-person attendance. For name changes, marriage licenses, and passport services, visit the County Clerk’s office at 600 Commerce Street during posted business hours.
Dallas County Court e-filing through eFileTexas lets attorneys and self-represented litigants submit documents around the clock. Attorneys must file electronically. Self-represented filers may submit in person, by mail, or online. Filing fees follow state statutes and vary by case type; review the Civil Fee Schedule on the county clerk website for exact amounts. Five County Courts at Law handle civil matters where the amount in controversy exceeds $500, with no upper limit on damages. Each court has a coordinator reachable by phone for Dallas County Court schedule questions, hearing requests, and trial settings. Dallas County small claims court matters, Dallas County family court filings, Dallas County probate court actions, and Dallas County traffic court cases all route through these divisions. Dallas County Court forms and local rules appear on the official portal, alongside Texas Rules of Civil Procedure references. Interpreter services, ADA accommodations, and language access support remain available by contacting your assigned court coordinator. Remote hearing options and Dallas County Court mediation programs can resolve disputes without in-person attendance. For name changes, marriage licenses, and passport services, visit the County Clerk’s office at 600 Commerce Street during posted business hours.
Dallas County Court Case Search and Records Lookup
The official Dallas County Court case search portal lets anyone look up court records at no cost. This online tool covers criminal case history going back to 1975. Civil matters and misdemeanor criminal cases from 2011 forward also show up in results. Older closed files and certified copies still need an in-person visit or written request.
Official Online Search Portal
The free portal lives on the Dallas County government. Users can search by name, case number, or filing date. Results show case type, court of record, party names, and hearing dates.
Steps Searching Method
Follow these steps to run a Dallas County Court case lookup on the official site:
- Go to https://www.dallascounty.org/
- Click the “Government” tab at the top of the page.
- Choose “Courts” from the drop-down menu.
- Pick the County Clerk or District Clerk section based on the case type.
- Click the “Records Search” or “Case Search” link.
- Type the party name, case number, or date range into the search box.
- Review the list of matching cases on the results page.
- Click any case number to see full details.
What Records Are Available Online
Free online records cover many case types, but not all of them. Some older closed files and certified copies need a special request. The Central Records email remains temporarily suspended after the April 6, 2026, facility move.
- Criminal cases back to 1975
- Civil cases from specific years forward
- Misdemeanor cases from 2011 onward
- Probate case basic details
- Family law filing details
Dallas County Court Locations and Buildings
Dallas County uses two main court buildings in downtown Dallas. Each building handles specific case types and has its own clerk’s office. Both sites follow the same hours and holiday schedule.
George L. Allen, Sr. Courts Building
This building sits at 600 Commerce Street, 5th Floor, West Tower, Dallas, TX 75202. The County Clerk runs civil, probate, and criminal misdemeanor filings from this site. The Civil Division phone number is (214) 653-7099.
Frank Crowley Courts Building
This building sits at 133 N. Riverfront Blvd., Dallas, TX 75207. The District Clerk runs felony case records from this site. The phone number for the building is (214) 653-5758.
Court Building Comparison
| Building | Address | Clerk Office | Main Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| George L. Allen, Sr. Courts Building | 600 Commerce Street, Dallas, TX 75202 | County Clerk | (214) 653-7099 |
| Frank Crowley Courts Building | 133 N. Riverfront Blvd., Dallas, TX 75207 | District Clerk | (214) 653-5758 |
Dallas County Court Clerks and Staff
Two elected clerks manage court records in Dallas County. Each clerk oversees different file types and case divisions. Both offices serve the public during regular business hours.
County Clerk’s Office
County Clerk John F. Warren heads the office that handles civil, probate, and criminal misdemeanor filings. The Civil Division phone number is (214) 653-7099. The office also issues marriage licenses, passport services, and records related to assumed business names.
District Clerk’s Office
District Clerk Felicia Pitre runs the felony case records office. Her office covers district court cases, including major civil suits and felony criminal matters. Contact details for specific divisions appear on the official county site.
Court Coordinators
Each County Court at Law has a coordinator reachable by phone. Coordinators handle schedule questions, hearing requests, and trial settings. County Court at Law No. 3 court clerks can be reached at (214) 653-7595. Email for that court goes to Leslie.Richardson@dallascounty.org.
Clerk Contact Details
| Division | Clerk Name | Phone | Cases Handled |
|---|---|---|---|
| County Clerk | John F. Warren | (214) 653-7099 | Civil, Probate, Misdemeanor |
| District Clerk | Felicia Pitre | Refer to official site | Felony, District Civil |
| County Court at Law No. 3 | Court Clerks | (214) 653-7595 | Civil cases |
| Probate Courts Division | Fees Line | (214) 653-7099 | Probate |
Filing Fees and Payment Options
Dallas County Court filing fees follow state statutes and vary by case type. The Probate Courts Division lists current fees on the County Clerk website. Review the schedule before submitting any case.
Probate Court Filing Fees
The Probate Courts Division phone for fee questions is (214) 653-7099. Basic probate filings start at $360. Issue citation costs $8, and serving by posting runs $20. Total filing fees for basic probate matters reach $388, plus payment service fees, bringing the total to $399.21.
Civil Case Filing Fees
Civil filing fees depend on the type of pleading filed. The County Clerk posts the Civil Fee Schedule on the official website. Review this schedule for exact amounts before submitting any case.
Standard Filing Fee Schedule
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Basic Probate Filing | $360 |
| Issue Citation | $8 |
| Serve By Posting | $20 |
| Total Basic Probate | $388 |
| Total with Service Fees | $399.21 |
| Standard Page Copy | $1.00 per page |
| Case Certification | $5 per case |
Copy and Certification Fees
Standard copy fees run $1.00 per page. Certified copies add $5 per case. Older closed records need special requests through the Central Records office.
E-Filing Services Through eFileTexas
Dallas County Court e-filing goes through the eFileTexas system. This system lets lawyers and self-represented filers submit documents online at any time of day. It is the required method for licensed attorneys in Texas.
How E-Filing Works
Users create an account on the eFileTexas portal, fill in case details, upload PDF documents, and pay filing fees. The system sends the filing to the correct court based on the case type and county. Filers receive email alerts when the court accepts or rejects the filing.
Who Must File Electronically
- Licensed attorneys must file all cases electronically
- Self-represented filers may file in person, by mail, or online
- Certain emergency filings may need an in-person submission
- Sealed records need special handling procedures
Types of Cases Handled in Dallas County Court
Dallas County Court handles many case types across civil, criminal, family, and probate divisions. Each division has its own rules and filing procedures. Cases are routed to the right court based on the type of legal issue and the amount of money involved.
Civil Cases
Five County Courts at Law handle civil matters where the amount in controversy exceeds $500. These courts have no upper cap on damages. Civil cases include contract disputes, personal injury claims, and property matters.
Criminal Misdemeanor Cases
Misdemeanor criminal cases include Class A, B, and C offenses. The County Clerk maintains these records at the George L. Allen, Sr. Courts Building. Free online access covers misdemeanor cases from 2011 forward.
Probate Cases
Probate Court handles wills, estates, and guardianship matters. Filing fees for probate cases start at $360 for basic filings. The Probate Courts Division can be reached at (214) 653-7099 for fee and procedure questions.
Family Law Cases
Family law cases cover divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and paternity matters. These cases route through the district courts and County Courts at Law based on the specific issue and amount in question.
Small Claims Court
Small claims matters are filed as part of the civil docket in Justice of the Peace courts. Claims usually involve smaller dollar amounts and use simpler procedures. Many small claims cases do not need a lawyer.
Traffic Court Cases
Traffic court matters handle moving violations, parking tickets, and minor traffic offenses. These cases often route through municipal courts or Justice of the Peace courts in Dallas County. The County Court at Law handles appeals from these lower courts.
Specialty Courts in Dallas County
Dallas County operates several specialty courts that focus on specific types of cases. These courts offer targeted programs for people with specific needs. Specialty courts aim to reduce repeat offenses and help people get back on track.
Specialty Court Programs
- Mental health court for people with diagnosed mental health conditions
- Veterans court for military veterans
- Drug court for people facing drug-related charges
- DWI court for driving while intoxicated offenses
- Domestic violence court for family violence matters
- Juvenile court for minors
Court Schedules and Hours
Dallas County Court hours run from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Both main court buildings follow the same schedule. Filing windows may stop accepting new documents 30 minutes before close.
Regular Business Hours
The clerk’s offices open at 8:00 AM and close at 4:30 PM. Phone lines for clerk offices are open during the same hours. Closed for lunch breaks may apply to specific windows. Check the posted signs at each building for window-level hours.
Holiday Closures
Dallas County courts close on state and federal holidays. The county will close all offices on Friday, June 19, 2026, in observance of Juneteenth. Other holiday closures follow the state court calendar. Visit the official site for the full holiday list.
Weekly Court Hours Schedule
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Forms, Local Rules, and Texas Rules of Civil Procedure
Dallas County Court forms and local rules appear on the official county portal. The Texas Rules of Civil Procedure apply to all civil cases filed in Texas courts. Self-represented filers should read both sets of rules before filing.
Local Rules
Each County Court at Law and district court has its own local rules. These rules cover filing deadlines, motion practices, and courtroom procedures. Local rules must be read along with the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.
Texas Rules of Civil Procedure
The Texas Rules of Civil Procedure are the base rules for all civil cases. These rules cover pleadings, motions, discovery, evidence, and trials. They apply to all civil cases in Texas state courts.
Standard Court Forms
- Civil petition forms
- Probate application forms
- Family law petition forms
- Small claims forms
- Name change petition forms
- Divorce decree forms
- Foreclosure notice forms
Interpreter Services, ADA, and Language Access
Dallas County Court offers interpreter services, ADA support, and language access for all court users. Contact your assigned court coordinator to arrange these services. The court follows state and federal law on these rights.
Court Interpreters
Certified court interpreters help people with limited English speak in court. The court provides interpreters for criminal cases at no cost. Civil cases may require a fee for interpreter services. Request an interpreter at least three business days before your hearing.
ADA Accommodations
The court offers reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. These include wheelchair access, sign language interpreters, and large-print forms. Contact the court coordinator at least three business days before your hearing to set up accommodations.
Language Access Services
Language access services include translated forms and bilingual staff in some divisions. The court follows Texas state law on language access rights for court users. Translated forms cover many common filings and notices.
Remote Hearings and Virtual Court Options
Dallas County Court offers remote hearing options for many case types. Parties can join hearings by video or phone from any location. This saves travel time and makes court access easier for many residents.
How Remote Hearings Work
The court sends a link or phone number to the parties before the hearing. Parties join the hearing at the scheduled time using a computer, phone, or tablet. The judge and court staff appear on screen for the full hearing.
Cases That Use Remote Hearings
- Status conferences
- Pretrial motions
- Some evidentiary hearings
- Settlement conferences
- Mediation sessions
Mediation and Settlement Conferences
Dallas County Court mediation and settlement programs help parties resolve disputes without trial. These programs save time and money for all parties. Many civil cases must try these methods before a trial date is set.
Mediation Programs
Court-ordered mediation sends a trained mediator to help parties reach a deal. The mediator does not decide the case but helps both sides talk through issues. Many civil cases must go to mediation before trial.
Settlement Conferences
Settlement conferences happen before a judge or senior attorney. The judge or attorney reviews the case and helps both sides see the strengths and weaknesses. The goal is a signed agreement that ends the case.
Background Checks and Warrant Searches
Dallas County offers tools for running background checks and searching for active warrants. Free public access covers many records. Some details may need a paid request or a visit to the clerk’s office.
Background Check Methods
Anyone can search criminal case history on the Dallas County portal. The search returns case type, charges, and final disposition for many older cases. Employers and landlords often use this tool for basic screening of job applicants and tenants.
Warrant Search Tools
- Online case search portal for case status
- In-person request at the clerk’s office
- Contact with a licensed attorney
- Justice of the Peace court for local warrants
Protective Orders and Restraining Orders
Dallas County Court issues protective orders and restraining orders for people facing safety risks. These orders are handled in the family court and the district court. Cases move fast when safety is at risk.
Protective Order Basics
Protective orders help people facing family violence, stalking, or sexual assault. The applicant files a petition at the courthouse. A judge reviews the petition and may issue a temporary order the same day.
Restraining Order Process
Restraining orders handle many civil matters, including business disputes and property issues. The applicant files a motion in the court where the case is pending. A hearing is set within a few days of the filing.
Eviction and Landlord-Tenant Matters
Dallas County Court handles eviction cases and other landlord-tenant disputes. Justice of the Peace courts handle most eviction filings. Both landlords and tenants have rights in these cases.
Eviction Filing Process
Landlords file eviction cases at the Justice of the Peace court in the precinct where the property sits. The court schedules a hearing within days of the filing. Tenants receive a notice to appear or vacate the property.
Tenant Rights in Court
- Right to receive written notice of the eviction filing
- Right to appear at the hearing and present a defense
- Right to request a jury trial in some cases
- Right to appeal the decision to a higher court
Legal Procedures: Motions, Discovery, and Evidence
Civil cases in Dallas County Court follow standard legal procedures. These procedures cover motions, discovery, and the rules for evidence at trial. Knowing these procedures helps both sides prepare a strong case.
Motion Practice
Parties file motions to ask the court for specific rulings. Common motions include motions to dismiss, motions for summary judgment, and motions to compel. Each motion must follow the local rules of the court where the case sits.
Discovery Process
Discovery lets both sides exchange facts and documents before trial. Methods include interrogatories, requests for production, depositions, and requests for admission. Discovery rules follow the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.
Evidence Rules
- All evidence must be relevant to the case
- Hearsay is excluded with specific exceptions
- Expert witnesses must be disclosed before trial
- Documents must be authenticated before use at trial
Notary Public Services
The Dallas County Clerk’s office provides notary public services for documents that need official signatures. These services help residents sign affidavits, sworn statements, and other legal papers. Fees apply based on the type of document.
When to Use a Notary
People use notary services for real estate documents, financial papers, and sworn statements. The County Clerk’s office offers notary services during posted business hours at the George L. Allen, Sr. Courts Building. Bring a valid photo ID for all notary requests.
Marriage Licenses, Name Changes, and Other County Clerk Services
The Dallas County Clerk’s office handles marriage licenses, name changes, passport services, and other records. Visit the office at 600 Commerce Street during posted business hours. Some services need an appointment.
Marriage Licenses
Both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license. Bring a valid photo ID and the required fee. The office issues licenses the same day in most cases. There is a waiting period before the license becomes valid.
Name Changes
Adult name changes start by filing a petition in the district clerk’s office. The petition must be filed in person or online. A judge then reviews and signs the order. The new name goes on file once the order is signed.
Passport Services
The County Clerk’s office accepts passport applications by appointment. Bring the required photos, ID, and fees. Processing times depend on the type of service requested. Routine service takes several weeks for delivery.
Jury Duty Information
Dallas County Court jury duty summons comes from the Dallas County Jury Services office. Jurors must respond by the date on the summons. Failing to appear can lead to fines or contempt of court charges.
Jury Calendar Resources
The Dallas Bar Association posts the Dallas County Jury Calendar for 2026. The Dallas Bar Association sits at 2101 Ross Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75201. You can reach the Dallas Bar Association at 214-220-7400 for jury-related questions.
Jury Service Basics
- Jury summonses arrive by mail from Dallas County
- Respond online or by phone before the deadline
- Show up at the assigned courthouse on the report date
- Parking is available near both main court buildings
- Failure to appear can result in fines or contempt of court
Appeals Process in Dallas County Court
People who lose a case in Dallas County Court can appeal the decision. Appeals go to a higher court for review. Deadlines for appeals are strict, so act fast after a judgment.
How Appeals Work
The losing party files a notice of appeal within 30 days of the judgment. The appeal goes to the Texas Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals for cases from Dallas County. The appeals court reviews the record and briefs from both sides.
Appeals Court Basics
- Notice of appeal must be filed on time
- The appeals court reviews the trial court record
- Oral arguments may be scheduled
- The appeals court issues a written opinion
Contact, Local Details, and Map
The official Dallas County Court website is the best source for current details. Contact details below come from verified sources on the official county portal.
Official Contact Details
- Official Website: https://www.dallascounty.org/
- Civil Division Phone: (214) 653-7099
- County Court at Law No. 3 Phone: (214) 653-7595
- Frank Crowley Courts Building Phone: (214) 653-5758
- Probate Courts Division Phone: (214) 653-7099
- Dallas Bar Association Phone: 214-220-7400
- County Court at Law No. 3 Email: Leslie.Richardson@dallascounty.org
Visiting Hours
Dallas County Court hours run from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. The office closes on weekends and state holidays, including Friday, June 19, 2026, for Juneteenth. Filing windows may stop accepting new documents 30 minutes before close.
Physical Address
600 Commerce Street, 5th Floor West Tower, Dallas, TX 75202
Frequently Asked Questions
Dallas County Court serves residents across North Texas with civil, criminal, probate, and family case handling. Two separate clerk offices manage filings at the George L. Allen, Sr. Courts Building and Frank Crowley Courts Building. The system supports online record searches, electronic filing, and in-person services from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Throughout the year, court livestreams, eJuror services, and ADA accommodations also remain available online for anyone who needs them.
How do I search Dallas County Court records online?
First, visit the Dallas County Online Record Search portal to access case details dating back to 1975. Next, enter a case number, party name, or business name in the search field. Then, use four characters plus an asterisk for wildcard searches. For civil cases filed after 2008, you can view documents directly. Still, sensitive cases, sealed records, and juvenile matters may not appear online. If you cannot find what you need, contact the District Clerk Records Desk at 214-653-6076 or email DCRecords@dallascounty.org. Also, browser issues sometimes cause loops, so switching to Chrome, Firefox, or Safari often fixes problems.
Where are the Dallas County Court clerk offices located, and what are the hours?
County Clerk John F. Warren handles civil, probate, and criminal misdemeanor filings. His office sits at the George L. Allen, Sr. Courts Building, 600 Commerce Street, Suite 101, Dallas, TX 75202. District Clerk Felicia Pitre oversees felony records at the Frank Crowley Courts Building, 133 N. Riverfront Blvd. Both offices open at 8:00 AM and close at 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. The office closes on Dallas County Commissioners Court-approved holidays, such as Juneteenth on June 19. Parking garages sit at Commerce and Houston Streets or Elm and Record Streets.
How do I contact the County Courts at Law in Dallas County?
Each County Court at Law uses a phone line tied to its case number ending letter. County Court at Law #1 (A) answers at 214-653-7556. Court #2 (B) uses 214-653-7366. Court #3 (C) reaches staff at 214-653-7595. Court #4 (D) connects at 214-653-7466. Court #5 (E) answers at 214-653-6441. For new cases, citations, or appeal filings, call 214-653-7121. Contact the court coordinator for your assigned case to schedule hearings, request interpreters, or ask about trial dates. Email DCRecords@dallascounty.org for document request forms.
How do I file a civil case in Dallas County Court?
Attorneys must file electronically through eFileTexas.gov, which runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Self-represented filers may submit documents in person at Suite 101 of the George Allen Courts Building, or mail filings to the Dallas County Clerk Civil Division, 600 Commerce Street, Suite 101, Dallas, TX 75202. The County Clerk Civil Division accepts cash, money orders, cashier’s checks, and business checks. Credit cards work for onsite and electronic payments. Check the Civil Fee Schedule for current charges before submitting your documents.
What forms of payment does the Dallas County Court accept for fees and fines?
The District Clerk accepts cash, in-state personal checks, money orders, and credit cards. Pay in person at the Civil and Family Records Desk in the basement of the George Allen Courts Building, 600 Commerce Street, Basement B Floor West. Mail payments to Dallas County District Clerk, Attn: Civil and Family Court Records, 600 Commerce Street, Ste. B-30, Dallas, Texas 75202. Online payments go through the District Clerk Records Payment Portal. Contact DCRecords@dallascounty.org first to confirm exact costs since overages are not always refundable.
How do I check my Dallas County Court jury duty status?
Dallas County uses the eJuror system for jury management. Visit the eJuror portal online to check your summons, update personal details, postpone service, or request an excuse. The system runs 24 hours a day. You can also call Jury Services at the phone number printed on your summons. Many court livestreams appear on the Dallas Courts website, so you can watch proceedings from home. For ADA accommodations or interpreter needs, contact the court coordinator assigned to your case before your service date.