The two videos below follow a Texas criminal case from the arrest through sentencing. In Anderson County the opening stages play out at the Sheriff's jail, and later hearings move to the Church Street courthouse. Settings for any one case can be found through Public Access.
Información en español: El segundo video recorre, en español, las fases de un proceso criminal tejano. Si un familiar está detenido en la cárcel de Anderson County, llame al 903-729-6068 para confirmar la fianza y los cargos. Para pedir un abogado de oficio, hable con el magistrado o llame a la coordinadora de defensa de indigentes al 903-723-7414.
When is the first court appearance after an Anderson County arrest?
How does a felony case get to trial in Anderson County?
What path does a misdemeanor take here?
Can I watch a hearing at the courthouse?
Where are hearing dates posted?
Step one is magistration inside two days of arrest, covering rights and bail. Appearing before the trial judge happens afterward, when the prosecutor's charge reaches the right court.
Unless the defendant waives it, a grand jury must return an indictment. The case is then assigned to the 3rd, 87th, 349th or 369th District Court for arraignment, pretrial settings and, if there is no plea agreement, trial.
The Criminal District Attorney's office, which has its own misdemeanor prosecutor, files the charge, usually by information. Judge Doran's court, which shares misdemeanor jurisdiction with the constitutional county court, takes it from there; County Clerk staff keep the file.
Most hearings are open to the public. Read the dress and decorum rules the County Court at Law posts before you go.
Online via Anderson County Public Access, or by asking a court coordinator (903-723-7414).