474th District Court

Agenda & Jurisdiction

The 474th District Court is a court of general jurisdiction. The Court primarily hears civil and family law matters. The Court is also the designated juvenile court for McLennan County. The Court is also the referring court for all Child Protective Service cases which means the decisions of the associate judge in those cases are subject to de novo review hearings in this Court.

Jury Trials

Potential jurors usually report at 8 a.m. on Monday mornings. After listening to instructions given by the District Clerk, they will be assigned to the various courts requiring a jury. Jury trials for civil and family law cases in the 474th District Court usually begin at 9 a.m. on Tuesday mornings. For more information, please view the District Clerk's Juror Information page.

Court Etiquette

Most hearings are open to the public. Appropriate dress is expected in the courtroom. No shorts, tank tops, hats/caps for men, or bare feet are allowed. Children under 7 and unattended children are not allowed in the courtroom.

Standing Order

The District Judges of McLennan County have entered a Standing Order Regarding Children, Property and Conduct of the Parties (PDF). This order applies to all divorce petitions and suits affecting parent-child relationships, (except AG initiated cases and CPS cases), filed after May 5, 2008.

Documents & Resources

• Local Rules for 474th District Court (pdf)
• Local Rules Concerning Electronic Filing (pdf)
• Standing Order for Certain Hearings to be Virtrual (pdf)
• Pro Se Litigants (pdf)

Settings

Requests regarding settings for civil and family law cases should be directed to Ellen Watson by phone or e-mail.

Transcriptions of Trials & Hearings

Inquiries regarding transcripts should be directed to Alexandra Gillman by phone or e-mail.