Tarrant County Criminal Court Records Search
Tarrant County, Texas, has a large criminal justice jurisdiction including Fort Worth and Arlington. There are tens of thousands of criminal cases handled each year in the large county. Accessing criminal court records and court services can be a bit complicated if you are unfamiliar with this county's court system. This article aims to clarify the structure of the Tarrant County criminal courts, explain how cases are divided among them, and guide you on how to look up court records, access court services, and how expunge criminal convictions.
The Courts of Tarrant County Texas That Handle Criminal Cases
There are several courts in this large Texas community that handle criminal cases, each with its own jurisdiction and responsibilities. Criminal cases are divided based on the severity and nature of the offense. Felonies are directed to the District Courts, while misdemeanors are assigned to the County Criminal Courts. Minor infractions and preliminary matters often begin in the Justice of the Peace Courts. Here is an outline of these courts and the cases they hear:
Criminal District Courts: The Criminal District Courts handle felony cases, which are serious crimes that can result in huge fines and long-term imprisonment. These courts also oversee civil cases, family law matters, and juvenile cases. Felony cases such as robbery, assault, and homicide are typically tried here.
County Criminal Courts: The Tarrant County County Criminal Courts deal primarily with smaller crimes and misdemeanor cases. Misdemeanors are less severe offenses than felonies and usually result in fines or shorter jail sentences. Common misdemeanor charges include petty theft, simple assault, or driving under the influence (DUI). This division is also tasked with issuing arrest warrants.
Justice of the Peace Courts: The Justice of the Peace Courts mainly handle minor offenses, such as traffic violations and criminal infractions. These courts also conduct preliminary hearings for more serious offenses. The more serious cases are often then elevated to the county courts.
How to Search Tarrant County Criminal Court Records
Looking up Tarrant County criminal court records can easily accomplished online using the county's online platform. First go to the District Clerk's website. Next you can search for criminal court records by case number, docket number or the names of the parties involved. Here’s how you can do it:
How to Access Criminal Court Records From the Clerk's Office:
1). Visit the Tarrant County Clerk’s official website.
2). Once on the website, navigate to the “Court Records” section.
3). Use the search function to enter the necessary details, such as the case number or the name of the person involved.
4). Follow the prompts to view the records and pay for the respective copies you want.
Expunging a Tarrant County Criminal Record
Expungement is a legal process that removes or seals a criminal record from public view. To expunge a criminal record in Tarrant County, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. However not all criminal convictions can be expunged so you must first check your eligibility. Most misdemeanors and some felonies can be expunged depending on the severity of the crime. Then, if the terms of the original sentence have been satisfied, including probation and restitution and fines paid, an expungement petition can be made.
Then to proceed with expungement, it is advisable to consult with a legal professional who can guide you through the process and help file the necessary paperwork with the court. Fees will need to be paid for this process and there is sometimes a significant waiting period depending on if you attempt this process yourself or if you hire an attorney.
How Do I Lookup Someone's Tarrant County Criminal Court Case?
If you want to access someone's criminal court case, or criminal conviction and sentencing records, you can contact the Tarrant County Clerk of the Courts. Their office can lookup criminal case information by name or case number. Another option, that is sometimes easier, is to use a third party public records website. These resources offer quick retrieval of court case information, for a fee, with a simple name search.
How Do I Expunge My Tarrant County Criminal Court Conviction?
First, you must figure out if your conviction is eligible to be expunged. Then you will need to make sure that the terms of your conviction have been met and all fines paid and restitution made. The next step is to appeal to the courts and apply to have your criminal record sealed, and pay the required fees. It can sometimes be helpful to hire an attorney for assistance with expunction of a criminal conviction.
