The Code of Judicial Conduct prohibits a judge or court staff from practicing law
(giving legal advice). The Code further prohibits the Justice of the Peace from engaging in communications concerning the merits of a pending judicial proceeding, or the merits of an impending claim or dispute. The Court and its staff are strictly prohibited from giving legal advice and can only assist on procedural questions.
Basic, Procedural & Informational
The following information is intended to be basic, procedural and informational, and is not offered as legal advice. The information is not exhaustive. There may be other remedies and procedures not listed. You should seek professional, licensed, legal counsel for advice.
Civil Cases I Can File
- Debt Claim Case: A debt claim case is a lawsuit brought to recover a debt by an assignee of a claim, a debt collector or collection agency, a financial institution, or a person or entity primarily engaged in the business of lending money at interest. The claim can be for no more than $20,000, excluding statutory interest and court costs but including attorney fees if any. Debt claim cases in justice court are governed by Rules 500 to 507 and 508 of Part V of the Rules of Civil Procedure (PDF). To the extent of any conflict between Rule 508 and the rest of Part V, Rule 508 applies.
- Eviction Case: An eviction case is a lawsuit brought to recover possession of the real property under Chapter 24 of the Texas Property Code, often by a landlord against a tenant. A claim for rent may be joined with an eviction case if the amount of rent due and unpaid is not more than $20,000, excluding statutory interest and court costs but including attorney fees, if any. Eviction cases are governed by Rules 500 to 507 and 510 of Part V of the Rules of Civil Procedure (PDF). To the extent of any conflict between Rule 510 and the rest of Part V, Rule 510 applies.
- Repair and Remedy Case: A repair and remedy case is a lawsuit filed by a residential tenant under Chapter 92, Subchapter B of the Texas Property Code to enforce the landlord’s duty to repair or remedy a condition materially affecting the physical health or safety of an ordinary tenant. The relief sought can be for no more than $10,000, excluding statutory interest and court costs but including attorney fees, if any. Repair and remedy cases are governed by Rules 500 to 507 and 509 of Part V of the Rules of Civil Procedure (PDF). To the extent of any conflict between Rule 509 and the rest of Part V, Rule 509 applies.
- Small Claims Case: A small claims case is a lawsuit brought for the recovery of money damages, civil penalties, personal property, or other relief allowed by law. The claim can be for no more than $20,000, excluding statutory interest and court costs but including attorney fees if any. Small claims cases are governed by Rules 500 to 507 of Part V of the Rules of Civil Procedure (PDF).