|
Overview
Many of your concerns are shared by other people. We have compiled a list of the most frequent questions we answer on a daily basis. If the information you need is not discussed here, we are as close to you as your computer, fax machine or the phone on your desk. We also look forward to you or your representative´s visit. Please do not hesitate to contact us for anything!
Frequently Asked Questions (With Official Answers)
Q: How can the public access the Bexar County justice files?
A: All files in the District Clerk´s Office as well as other county offices are accessible to the public with very few exceptions (to protect the privacy of others or in compliance with existing laws and court orders). Members of the public may view public records during regular working hours or copies may be ordered from us electronically. To access county databases not presently accessible from any county department´s web site, coordination must be established with Bexar County Information Services. Call Ms. Jennifer Mann at (210) 335-0212 for service and information.
The District Clerk installed computer terminals in strategic locations throughout the Courthouse for unassisted database searches by anyone. Operating instructions are posted at the computer stations. If you don´t find what you need, please ask for assistance from any Deputy District Clerk. We are here to serve you and satisfy your requirements for timely and accurate information.
Q: When did fax filing start?
A: Fax filing started in October 1999. The Bexar County District Courts issued Special Order No. 33166, Rule Governing the Procedure for the District Clerk of Bexar County to Receive and File Electronically Transmitted Court Documents, which was subsequently approved by the Texas Supreme Court.. Contact Tom Koenig at (210) 335-2621 or send him an email for more information.
Q: Where can I find the "local rules?"
A: Click here for the relevant text of the recently updated Local Rules of the District Courts of Bexar County.
Q: Does Bexar County have a forum or facility for settling disputes between parties without
going through the judicial process?
A: We certainly do and the District Clerk very strongly supports mediation by trained mediators as a proven alternative to litigation. The Bexar County Dispute Resolution Center has been offering this sensible avenue for conflict resolution at no cost to individuals, businesses, and organizations in Bexar County since 1984. Mediation may be requested by either of the concerned parties if the matter is not already in litigation. If a court case has already been filed, you may contact the Center to see if your case can be ordered to mediation. The Bexar County Dispute Resolution Center is on the first floor of the Cadena-Reeves Justice Center, 300 Dolorosa, Suite 1102, San Antonio, TX 78205-3009. Hours of operation are Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. ti 5 p.m. The Center´s phone number (210) 335-2128 and email bcdrc@bexar.org and, their information-rich website is at www.bexar.org/drc_home.htm. Or just click on the shaking hands to the right. Mediation is a win-win choice. Through mediation, bothe parties in a conflict contribute to the solution rather than turning it over to the decision of an outside party --- and, thanks to the pro bono services of local mediators, it´s FREE! The community and the courts benefit from mediation when valuable court time and taxpayer dollars are not tied up with matters that could be resolved by other means. We encourage you to explore mediation before filing a lawsuit.
Q: What are the operating guidelines for Bexar County Private Process Servers?
A: General guidelines are embodied in the "Amended Joint Order of the District Courts of the Judicial Districts of Bexar County, Texas Pursuant to Texas Rules of Court 103 Concerning Service of Process by Certain Private Process Servers" that went into effect on February 28, 1991. In addition, a sworn application to operate as a private process server must be submitted to the District Clerk (Attn: PPS Liaison). PPS application forms may be obtained from the District Clerk´s Administrative Office or downloaded from this link. More information may be requested by e-mail or by calling Tim Palmquist at (210) 335-2187.
Q: I´m a little confused about the services offered by the District Clerk, the County Clerk
and the City of San Antonio.
A: Follow this link for more useful information.
Q: What agencies do I need to include in a Petition for Expunction of Records?
A: The District Clerk suggests that you start with her office. Click here for a list of suggested agencies.
Q: How can I submit my concerns to the District Clerk?
A: By phone, fax, mail, e-mail, in person, any way you want! Click here for your main contacts.
Q: What are the District Clerk´s favorite web sites?
A: Thanks for asking! Click here for her recommended sites. |
Texas Online
Bexar County, Texas
Bexar County
Texas Homeland
U.S. Department of
Texas Records and
FirstGov