County Courts at Law
The Fort Bend County Clerk serves as Clerk of the Court for all County Courts at Law. Fort Bend County has six (6) County Courts at Law and two (2) Associate County Courts at Law.
CIVIL COURT — Civil cases usually deal with disputes between parties in which the amount in controversy is up to $250,000. These courts also hear appeals from Justice of the Peace courts. The County Clerk's responsibilities include receiving e-filings for civil cases, eminent domain cases, preparing notices and citations, and maintaining records associated with cases filed before these courts.
JUVENILE — This court hears issues associated with juvenile offenders who are 10 years of age or older and younger than 17 years of age. The County Clerk receives filings, maintains, and records associated cases filed before this court. All Juvenile files per Texas Family Code 58.007 are open for inspection ONLY by:
- Juvenile Court Judge,
- Juvenile Probation Officers,
- Professional Consultants/Staff of the court,
- Juvenile Justice Agency,
- Attorney for the Party,
- Agency providing supervision, or
- With leave of the Juvenile Court for others who have a legitimate interest.
MENTAL HEALTH — If a patient needs mental health treatment and is a potential danger to himself/herself or others, there are options. For more information on Mental Health Commitments, please visit Fort Bend County Attorney Mental Health FAQs.
MISDEMEANOR COURT — These courts hear Class A and B misdemeanor offenses such as DWIs, thefts, and assaults. The County Clerk's Office accepts filings, records information from these courts, and provides administrative support through the issuance of warrants, summons, subpoenas, and commitments. Felony information is located in the District Clerk's Office.
PROBATE — This court hears issues associated with the estates of deceased persons, guardianships for minors and incapacitated persons, and mental health commitments. The County Clerk issues citations, letters of guardianship, letters testamentary, notices, and other documents as required by law.
