Municipal Court

Municipal Court of Record

The Municipal Court is the judicial branch of the City of Joshua and is a part of the state judicial system. The Municipal Court strives to administer justice in a fair, efficient, and timely manner. Court services are available in person and online, by telephone, and through the mail. Court is held on the first Thursday and third Tuesday of the month.

The Municipal Court is a court of record. Proceedings are governed by the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and Chapter 30 of the Texas Government Code.

Municipal Courts are the judicial branch of city government. In addition, the Municipal Court is part of the state judicial system. Municipal Court hears Class C Misdemeanor criminal cases, including traffic violations, for which the maximum fine, upon conviction, does not exceed $500. They also hear cases involving violation(s) of city ordinances, which may have fines up to $2,000 for certain offenses.

When you receive a citation, the options you have to resolve your case can vary depending on many different factors including, but not limited to: the type of violation, the severity of the violation, the age of the defendant, etc.

The first thing you will need to do is enter a plea on or before the 20th day after your citation date. Once you announce your intended plea, you may be scheduled for a court date, or you may have the option of disposing of the case without appearing in open court. If your situation allows you to resolve the matter without appearing in open court, you may pay the fine, provide proof for expired violations or insurance matters, or you may be eligible for an alternate sentencing option such as deferred disposition (deferred adjudication), or a driving safety course.

A phone call to the court does not qualify as an appearance.

In response to the concerns of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) if you believe you are sick, have been exposed to someone who is sick, are a member of a high-risk group according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), have traveled outside of the country within the last 14 days, or have any other concerns relating to COVID-19, YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO APPEAR IN PERSON. Please Contact the Joshua Municipal Court for more information (817)558-7447.

Alternative Options- Financial Hardship

If you are unable to pay a fine and or court costs, there are other options such as a payment plan or community service to pay your fine. In certain situations, in which a person cannot perform community service and is financially unable to pay their fine the Court will hear sworn testimony and look at evidence concerning your financial situation. The Judge can reduce the fine, or eliminate the fine and costs completely, depending on the severity of your financial situation. Community service options have been expanded by the Texas Legislature to include (a) attending work and job skills training; (b) a preparatory class for high school equivalency exam; and (c) service at an educational institution. If you are asking for Community Service, you must supply documentation of financial status. Examples are W-2, Unemployment Benefits, TANF, or any subsidy that you have. For more information, contact the court at (817) 558-7447.

Parking

Please note that parking space at the Court is limited. Additional parking is available across the street (north) 101 E. 12th Street.

Staff Contacts

Name Title
Carla Bonham Municipal Court Clerk