Waller County
Waller County, located in southeast Texas, was founded in 1873 and named after Edwin Waller. As of the 2023 census, the county had an estimated population of 63,553 residents and covers approximately 513.30 square miles of land. The City of Prairie View is the largest, while Hampstead serves as the administrative center of Waller County.
The judicial system of Waller County comprises two District Courts, a Constitutional Court, a County Court of Law, four Justice Courts, and four Municipal Courts. Waller County District Courts have authority over most civil and criminal cases beyond the jurisdiction of other courts. They handle cases such as land disputes, felonies, and divorce. The Constitutional Court in Waller County has jurisdiction over misdemeanor cases and the probate of wills. On the other hand, the County Court at Law has limited jurisdiction over criminal and civil cases, including protection orders and certain juvenile matters. Barry County Justice Courts have jurisdiction over traffic violations, small claims, evictions, and mental health cases. The Municipal Courts handle cases involving city ordinance and municipal ordinance violations.
The County Clerk is responsible for maintaining Waller County's court records. These records are legal documents created or produced during court proceedings within the county's jurisdiction. They include dockets, judgments, transcripts, films, and orders. Types of court records in Waller County include:
- Family Records
- Civil Records
- Probate Records
- Criminal Records
- Traffic Records
Waller County court records are available and accessible to the public. This allows individuals to review court records, ensuring accountability and promoting a fair legal system. However, certain records, such as adoptions, sealed, mental health, and juvenile records, are confidential and may be restricted from public disclosure. Requesters may search for Waller County court records by visiting the courthouses in person or through the Waller County Public Access website. Records may be searched by case number, citation number, or party name. Certain fees may be charged for copies of court records.
