Hidalgo County Court Records
What Is Hidalgo County Court Records
Hidalgo County court records are official documents created and maintained by the various courts operating within Hidalgo County, Texas. These records document legal proceedings, judgments, and other official actions taken by the courts. The records are maintained pursuant to Texas Government Code § 51.303, which mandates the proper keeping of all court documents.
Court records typically include:
- Case filings and pleadings
- Court orders and judgments
- Hearing transcripts
- Evidence presented in court
- Docket information
- Case dispositions
The responsibility for maintaining these records falls to several county offices, primarily the Hidalgo County District Clerk's Office and the Hidalgo County Clerk's Office, depending on the court of origin.
Hidalgo County District Clerk's Office 100 N. Closner, 1st Floor Edinburg, TX 78539 (956) 318-2200 Hidalgo County District Clerk
Hidalgo County Clerk's Office 100 E. Cano, 1st Floor Edinburg, TX 78539 (956) 318-2100 Hidalgo County Clerk
Are Court Records Public In Hidalgo County
Court records in Hidalgo County are generally considered public information in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552) and the common law right of access to judicial records. Members of the public may access most court records without demonstrating a specific need or purpose.
However, certain exceptions to public access exist:
- Records sealed by court order
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Mental health proceedings
- Adoption records
- Cases involving minors in family court matters
- Records containing sensitive personal information as defined by Texas Government Code § 552.147
- Records subject to attorney-client privilege
- Records related to ongoing investigations
Access to public court records may be obtained through online portals or by visiting the appropriate clerk's office in person. Pursuant to Texas law, requestors may be required to pay reasonable fees for copies of records or for extensive searches requiring significant staff time.
The Public Information Request procedures established by Hidalgo County provide specific guidelines for obtaining public records, including court documents. Requests must be submitted in writing, and the county has specific timeframes for responding as mandated by state law.
How To Find Court Records in Hidalgo County in 2025
Finding court records in Hidalgo County in 2025 involves several methods depending on the type of record sought and the preferred access method. The county has continued to expand its digital access options while maintaining traditional in-person services.
For in-person requests, individuals may visit:
Hidalgo County District Clerk's Office 100 N. Closner, 1st Floor Edinburg, TX 78539 Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (956) 318-2200
When requesting records in person, requestors should:
- Provide specific case information (case number, party names, filing date)
- Present valid identification
- Be prepared to pay applicable fees for copies ($1.00 per page for standard copies, $5.00 for certified copies)
- Allow sufficient time for staff to locate and retrieve records
For electronic access, Hidalgo County offers several online search options through its official website. The county's Odyssey Public Access portal provides comprehensive search capabilities for district and county court cases.
Additionally, requestors may submit written requests via mail or email to the appropriate clerk's office. Such requests must include:
- Requestor's contact information
- Specific description of records sought
- Preferred delivery method
- Signature and date
Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.221, the county must promptly produce public information in response to proper requests, typically within 10 business days.
How To Look Up Court Records in Hidalgo County Online?
Hidalgo County provides several online platforms for accessing court records electronically. These systems allow users to search for and view case information without visiting county offices in person.
The primary online resources include:
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Odyssey Public Access - This portal provides access to criminal, civil, family, and probate case records from district and county courts. Users may search by:
- Case number
- Party name
- Attorney name
- Filing date range
- Case type
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Hidalgo County Records Inquiry (SPA) - This system offers unofficial copies of court records with appropriate disclaimers. Users should note that certified copies must still be requested through the clerk's office.
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Hidalgo County Clerk's Public Search - This platform focuses on real property records, liens, plats, and other documents recorded with the County Clerk's Office.
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Thirteenth Court of Appeals - For appellate cases originating from Hidalgo County, this site provides access to opinions, dockets, and case status information.
Users should be aware that while basic search functions are generally free, fees may apply for viewing or downloading certain documents. Additionally, some sensitive information may be redacted from online records in accordance with Texas Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 12.
Can You Search Hidalgo County Court Records for Free?
Hidalgo County provides several options for free access to basic court record information, though fees may apply for obtaining copies or accessing certain detailed documents.
Free search options include:
- Basic case information searches through the Odyssey Public Access portal, which provides case numbers, party names, filing dates, and general case status
- Docket searches for upcoming court hearings
- Case status verification
- Limited document indexes
However, the following services typically require payment of fees:
- Printed copies of court documents ($1.00 per page)
- Certified copies ($5.00 per document)
- Complete case files
- Extensive research requiring staff assistance ($15.00 per hour after the first hour)
- Expedited services
Pursuant to Texas Local Government Code § 118.011, the county is authorized to charge reasonable fees to recover costs associated with providing copies and certain search services. Fee waivers may be available for indigent individuals who file an affidavit of inability to pay costs in accordance with Texas Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 145.
Public access computer terminals are available at the District Clerk's Office and County Clerk's Office during regular business hours, providing free on-site access to electronic court records.
What's Included in a Hidalgo County Court Record?
Hidalgo County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings. The specific contents vary by case type, but generally include the following components:
- Case information sheet with basic identifying data
- Pleadings and petitions filed by parties
- Motions and responses
- Court orders and judgments
- Hearing notices
- Transcripts (when prepared)
- Evidence admitted during proceedings
- Affidavits and declarations
- Service of process documentation
- Attorney appearances and withdrawals
- Financial information including filing fees, fines, and payment records
- Case disposition and outcome
For criminal cases, additional documents typically include:
- Charging instruments (indictments or information)
- Arrest warrants and returns
- Bond information
- Pre-trial motions
- Plea agreements
- Sentencing information
- Probation terms and conditions
Family law cases may contain sensitive information regarding minor children, financial disclosures, and domestic matters. Access to certain portions of these records may be restricted pursuant to Texas Family Code § 105.006.
Probate records include wills, inventories of estate assets, executor appointments, and distribution orders. These records are maintained in accordance with Texas Estates Code requirements.
How Long Does Hidalgo County Keep Court Records?
Hidalgo County retains court records according to schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the Local Government Records Act (Texas Local Government Code Chapter 203). Retention periods vary based on case type, significance, and legal requirements.
General retention guidelines include:
- Felony cases: Permanent retention for capital cases; 75 years for other felonies
- Misdemeanor cases: 5 years after final disposition
- Civil cases: 12 years after final disposition for most matters
- Family law cases: Permanent retention for divorce decrees; varying periods for other documents
- Probate cases: Permanent retention for wills and estate inventories
- Justice court records: 5 years for criminal cases; 4 years for civil matters
Historical records of significant legal or community importance may be designated for permanent preservation. The Hidalgo County Archives, located at 100 E. Cano, Basement Level, Edinburg, TX 78539, maintains historical court records dating back to the county's formation in 1852.
Digital preservation initiatives have expanded in recent years, with many older records being converted to electronic format for improved access and preservation. However, some older records may only be available in paper format at county facilities.
Types of Courts In Hidalgo County
Hidalgo County's judicial system consists of several levels of courts, each with specific jurisdiction and authority as established by the Texas Constitution and statutes.
The primary courts operating in Hidalgo County include:
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District Courts - Hidalgo County has thirteen district courts (92nd, 93rd, 139th, 206th, 275th, 332nd, 370th, 389th, 398th, 430th, 449th, 464th, and 13th District Courts) handling felony criminal cases, civil matters over $250,000, family law cases, and juvenile matters.
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County Courts at Law - Six County Courts at Law handle misdemeanor criminal cases, civil matters between $20,000 and $250,000, probate proceedings, and certain family law matters.
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Justice of the Peace Courts - Eight Justice of the Peace precincts handle small claims (up to $20,000), evictions, traffic cases, and Class C misdemeanors.
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Municipal Courts - Located in various cities throughout Hidalgo County, these courts handle city ordinance violations, traffic offenses, and Class C misdemeanors occurring within city limits.
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Probate Court - Hidalgo County Probate Court handles estates, guardianships, and mental health commitments.
The Thirteenth Court of Appeals, located at 100 E. Cano, 5th Floor, Edinburg, TX 78539, hears appeals from Hidalgo County courts and other counties within its jurisdiction.
Additional specialized courts include:
- Drug Court
- Veterans Treatment Court
- Mental Health Court
- Family Drug Court
Information about these courts can be found through the Law & Justice division of Hidalgo County.
What Types of Cases Do Hidalgo County Courts Hear?
Hidalgo County courts adjudicate a wide range of legal matters according to their respective jurisdictions as established by Texas law. The distribution of case types among the courts ensures efficient administration of justice.
District Courts hear:
- Felony criminal cases (murder, robbery, drug trafficking)
- Civil lawsuits with amounts in controversy exceeding $250,000
- Family law matters (divorce, child custody, support)
- Juvenile cases
- Real property disputes
- Election contests
- Civil forfeitures
County Courts at Law handle:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases (DWI, assault, theft under $2,500)
- Civil matters with amounts in controversy between $20,000 and $250,000
- Probate proceedings and guardianships
- Mental health commitments
- Appeals from justice and municipal courts
Justice of the Peace Courts preside over:
- Small claims cases (up to $20,000)
- Eviction proceedings
- Traffic violations
- Class C misdemeanors
- Debt claims
- Repair and remedy cases
- Magistrate functions including issuing arrest warrants and setting bail
Municipal Courts adjudicate:
- City ordinance violations
- Traffic offenses within city limits
- Class C misdemeanors occurring within city boundaries
- Parking violations
Specialized courts, such as Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court, provide alternative approaches to specific case types, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment for qualifying offenders.
Case assignment information and court schedules can be accessed through the Hidalgo County website or by contacting the appropriate clerk's office.
How To Find a Court Docket In Hidalgo County
Court dockets in Hidalgo County provide schedules of cases set for hearing or trial on specific dates. These dockets are public information and can be accessed through several methods.
To find current court dockets:
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Online Access: Visit the Odyssey Public Access portal and select the "Calendar" search option. Users can search by:
- Court number
- Date range
- Case type
- Attorney name
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In-Person Viewing: Dockets are posted daily outside each courtroom and at the District Clerk's Office and County Clerk's Office. Physical copies may be viewed during regular business hours: Hidalgo County Courthouse 100 N. Closner Edinburg, TX 78539 Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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Telephone Inquiry: Court coordinators can provide docket information by phone:
- District Courts: (956) 318-2200
- County Courts at Law: (956) 318-2250
- Justice of the Peace Courts: Contact specific precinct (see Justices of the Peace for contact information)
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Email Subscription: Attorneys registered with the courts may receive electronic docket notifications for their cases.
Pursuant to Texas Rules of Judicial Administration, dockets must be made available to the public with reasonable notice. However, certain specialized dockets, such as juvenile proceedings or sealed cases, may have restricted access in accordance with applicable laws.
For historical docket information, requestors should contact the appropriate clerk's office with specific date information, as archived dockets may not be available through online systems.
Which Courts in Hidalgo County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Hidalgo County, certain courts do not maintain official verbatim records of their proceedings. These "non-record" courts operate under different procedural rules than courts of record.
The following courts in Hidalgo County are not courts of record:
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Justice of the Peace Courts (all eight precincts) - While these courts maintain case files and docket information, they do not record verbatim transcripts of proceedings. Appeals from these courts are handled through a process called "trial de novo" (new trial) in the County Courts at Law.
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Municipal Courts (unless designated as "Municipal Courts of Record") - Most municipal courts in Hidalgo County cities are not courts of record. These include municipal courts in:
- Mission
- Weslaco
- San Juan
- Alamo
- Donna
- Mercedes
The distinction between record and non-record courts is significant for appeal purposes. When appealing from a non-record court, the case is heard completely anew in the higher court, rather than reviewing the proceedings of the lower court for errors.
Parties appearing before non-record courts should be aware that no official transcript will be available. If documentation of proceedings is desired, parties may need to make their own arrangements, subject to court approval.
Information about specific Justice of the Peace Courts can be found on the Justices of the Peace page of the Hidalgo County website.
Lookup Court Records in Hidalgo County
Search Hidalgo County court records online
Find civil and criminal cases in Hidalgo County
Access Hidalgo County property records
View unofficial court record copies
Visit the official Hidalgo County website
Contact the District Clerk's Office
Explore Hidalgo County Law & Justice resources
Find Justice of the Peace information