Jackson County Small Claims Court, Texas

What is the trial like?

Unlike regular civil trials, small claims court rules do not follow the Rules of Evidence. This allows the trials to be conducted in a much more informal fashion. Furthermore, the judge is allowed and often ask questions of witnesses and parties to help understand the facts of a case. Trials generally are pretty short (15-20 minutes). A jury trial will likely last longer, probably a few hours.

Jackson County Court Clerk

The clerk at the courthouse can be an excellent resource for your case. This will ensure the courthouse is open and someone is available to assist with the filing of your claim. Also, while the clerk can answer questions about procedures, the clerk cannot give legal advice.

Do I need A Lawyer?

In Texas, small claims parties generally represent themselves without an attorney. The reasoning behind this is because the amount is $10,000 or less, hiring an attorney becomes cost prohibitive. Nevertheless, you are allowed to retain one if you desire. (Texas Government Code Section 28.003).

Limit (or Jurisdiction) of Small Claims Court

A plaintiff cannot demand more than $10,000 in their action. (Texas Government Code 28.093). Additionally, a small claims court plaintiff can only ask the court for monetary relief. You are unable to seek injunctive or equitable relief. For example, if you pay a painter $1,000 to paint your house and the painter does not even begin, you cannot ask the court to issue an order for the painter to paint your house. You could only ask the court for an award of money.

Types of Cases

A variety of cases are handled in small claims court. From a security deposit on a rental to a motor vehicle accident. The only types of cases that are prohibited are an assignment of a claim (whereby you transfer your interest in a case for someone else to collect), a divorce, or a case filed by a collection agency or agents. Small Claims actions are heard in 2 courthouses throughout Jackson County.

Can I appeal my case?

Yes, but only if the amount in controversy is in excess of $250.

Judges for Small Claims Court Cases in Jackson County

A Justice of the Peace for Jackson County hears small claims court cases for Jackson County.

Small Claims Court Venue

In order to follow correct procedure, a small claims case needs to be filed in the proper county and precinct. In Texas, the action is filed in the County and Precinct where the defendants reside or where a contract was to be performed. (Government Code Section 28.011).

Jackson County Court Locations

Precinct 1 Place 1 Courthouse in the City of Edna

This courthouse is located at:

411 N Wells, Rm 302

Edna, TX 77957-2738

This courthouse handles cases for Precinct 1 Place 1. The court’s website can be found here. The phone number for the court is (361)782-5259. And you can email the court by clicking here.

Precinct 2 Place 1 Courthouse in the City of Ganado