Ector County Court Records
What Is Ector County Court Records
Court records in Ector County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's jurisdiction. Pursuant to the Texas Government Code § 552.022, court records are categorized as public information and include a comprehensive array of legal documents.
Ector County court records typically contain:
- Case files with pleadings, petitions, and complaints
- Court dockets listing scheduled hearings and case status
- Motions filed by attorneys or parties
- Judicial orders and final judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Sentencing information in criminal matters
- Settlement agreements in civil cases
These records are distinct from other public records maintained by Ector County, such as property records (deeds, liens, mortgages), vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates), and tax records. Court records specifically document judicial proceedings and decisions.
The Ector County District Clerk's Office maintains records for the following courts:
- 70th District Court
- 161st District Court
- 244th District Court
- 358th District Court
- County Court at Law #1
- County Court at Law #2
Additional courts maintaining records in Ector County include Justice of the Peace Courts, Municipal Courts, and specialized courts handling probate, family, and small claims matters. These records document proceedings across civil, criminal, family, probate, and traffic cases.
Are Court Records Public In Ector County
Court records in Ector County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act and the Texas Rules of Judicial Administration. Under Texas Government Code § 552.022, court records are presumed to be open for public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.
The following court records are typically available for public access:
- Civil case files (with certain exceptions for sealed cases)
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Court judgments and orders
- Docket sheets and hearing schedules
- Property records related to court proceedings
- Probate and estate records
It is important to note that certain records may be restricted from public access, including:
- Juvenile proceedings (per Texas Family Code § 58.007)
- Cases involving minors or sexual assault victims
- Mental health proceedings
- Adoption records
- Records sealed by judicial order
- Cases under active investigation
Federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas (which includes Ector County) are governed by federal access rules and are available through the PACER system.
The Texas Supreme Court has established rules regarding public access to court records, balancing transparency with privacy concerns. These rules are outlined in the Texas Rules of Judicial Administration.
How To Find Court Records in Ector County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Ector County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county currently maintains both physical and digital systems for record retrieval.
For in-person requests:
- Visit the Ector County District Clerk's Office during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form specifying the case number, party names, and documents needed
- Present valid identification
- Pay applicable copy fees ($1.00 per page for standard copies)
Ector County District Clerk
300 N. Grant Ave., Room 210
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4290
Ector County District Clerk
For criminal case records, individuals may contact:
Ector County Clerk's Office
300 N. Grant Ave., Room 102
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4130
Ector County Clerk
For remote requests:
- Submit a written request via mail to the appropriate clerk's office
- Include case information, specific documents requested, and contact information
- Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope and payment for copy fees
- Allow 5-10 business days for processing
Electronic access is available through:
- Texas Judicial Branch Website for case information
- eFileTexas for registered users
- idocket.com for Ector County case searches (subscription required)
Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.261, fees may be charged for copies of court records, with standard rates established by the county.
How To Look Up Court Records in Ector County Online?
Ector County provides several digital platforms for accessing court records online. These systems vary by court type and case category.
For District and County Courts:
- Visit the Ector County Records Search
- Select the appropriate court from the dropdown menu
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, filing date)
- Review search results and select specific cases to view available documents
- Note that some documents may require in-person requests
For Justice of the Peace Courts:
- Access the Ector County JP Courts Online Records
- Select the appropriate precinct
- Enter search parameters
- Results will display basic case information and status
For Municipal Court records in Odessa:
- Navigate to the Odessa Municipal Court website
- Use the citation search function
- Enter citation number or name
- Review case status, fines, and payment options
For statewide case information:
- Visit the Texas Judicial Branch Public Court Records
- Select "Case Search"
- Choose Ector County from the jurisdiction list
- Enter search criteria
- Note that document images are not available through this portal
For Child Protection Court cases:
- Access the Child Protection Court of West Texas docket system
- Select the appropriate docket
- Review scheduled hearings and case status
Registered attorneys and legal professionals can access additional records through the eFileTexas system, which provides comprehensive access to electronically filed documents.
How To Search Ector County Court Records for Free?
Texas law guarantees the public's right to inspect court records without charge, as established in the Texas Public Information Act. While copy fees may apply, viewing records is free of charge.
Free options for accessing Ector County court records include:
- In-person inspection at the respective clerk's offices during regular business hours
- Public access terminals located in the Ector County Courthouse
- Basic case information through the Texas Judicial Branch website
- Limited information through the Ector County website
Ector County Law Library
300 N. Grant Ave., 3rd Floor
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4100
Ector County Law Library
The Law Library provides public access computers for searching court records at no charge. Library staff can assist with navigating the available databases.
For Justice of the Peace records, free basic case information is available through:
Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1
300 N. Grant Ave., Room 123
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4120
JP Precinct 1
Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2
1010 E. 8th St., Suite 303
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4125
JP Precinct 2
Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3
1010 E. 8th St., Suite 204
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4132
JP Precinct 3
Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4
1010 E. 8th St., Suite 202
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4136
JP Precinct 4
While commercial services like idocket.com offer more comprehensive search capabilities, they typically require subscription fees.
What's Included in a Ector County Court Record?
Ector County court records contain various documents depending on the case type and stage of proceedings. The content of these records is governed by the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure and Texas Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Civil case records typically include:
- Petition or complaint initiating the lawsuit
- Summons and proof of service
- Defendant's answer or response
- Motions filed by either party
- Discovery documents (if filed with the court)
- Affidavits and sworn statements
- Court orders and rulings
- Final judgment
- Post-judgment motions and orders
- Appeal documents (if applicable)
Criminal case records generally contain:
- Charging documents (indictment or information)
- Arrest warrant and return
- Bond information
- Defendant's plea
- Pretrial motions and rulings
- Evidence logs
- Jury selection records (in jury trials)
- Verdict or judgment
- Sentencing information
- Probation terms (if applicable)
- Appeal documents (if filed)
Family court records may include:
- Divorce petitions and decrees
- Child custody and support orders
- Adoption proceedings
- Name change applications
- Protective orders
- Paternity determinations
Probate records typically contain:
- Wills and codicils
- Applications for probate
- Inventories of estate assets
- Claims against estates
- Guardian appointments
- Annual accountings
- Orders distributing assets
Each court record also includes a docket sheet, which serves as a chronological index of all filings and proceedings in the case.
How Long Does Ector County Keep Court Records?
Ector County maintains court records according to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission Records Retention Schedule. The retention periods vary based on the type of case and document.
For District Courts:
- Civil case records: Permanently maintained
- Criminal case records (felonies): Permanently maintained
- Criminal case records (misdemeanors): 20 years after final disposition
- Family law cases: Permanently maintained
- Juvenile cases: Until the individual reaches age 23, then eligible for destruction
For County Courts:
- Civil cases: 12 years after final disposition
- Criminal cases (misdemeanors): 5 years after final disposition
- Probate cases: Permanently maintained
For Justice of the Peace Courts:
- Civil cases: 4 years after final disposition
- Criminal cases (Class C misdemeanors): 5 years after final disposition
- Eviction cases: 4 years after final disposition
For Municipal Courts:
- Criminal cases (Class C misdemeanors): 5 years after final disposition
- Juvenile cases: Until the individual reaches age 21
Certain records designated as having historical value may be maintained permanently regardless of the standard retention period. Additionally, case indexes are typically maintained permanently to facilitate future record searches.
The Texas Local Government Code § 203.042 establishes the legal framework for records retention, while specific schedules are developed and maintained by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.
Types of Courts In Ector County
Ector County's judicial system consists of several courts with varying jurisdictions and authority levels.
District Courts
300 N. Grant Ave.
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4290
Ector County District Courts
Ector County has four district courts (70th, 161st, 244th, and 358th), which handle felony criminal cases, civil matters involving amounts over $200,000, family law cases, and juvenile matters. These courts operate Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
County Courts at Law
300 N. Grant Ave.
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4130
Ector County Courts at Law
The two County Courts at Law handle misdemeanor criminal cases, civil matters between $20,000 and $200,000, probate proceedings, and mental health commitments. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Justice of the Peace Courts
Various locations throughout Ector County
(See addresses in previous section)
Ector County JP Courts
The four Justice of the Peace Courts handle Class C misdemeanors, small claims up to $20,000, evictions, and serve as magistrates. They also conduct inquests and issue peace bonds. Hours vary by precinct, generally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays.
Municipal Courts
201 N. Grant Ave.
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 335-3300
Odessa Municipal Court
Municipal Courts handle city ordinance violations, Class C misdemeanors occurring within city limits, and traffic violations. The Odessa Municipal Court operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Child Protection Court of West Texas
300 N. Grant Ave.
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4290
Child Protection Court of West Texas
This specialized court handles cases involving child abuse and neglect, termination of parental rights, and adoptions. It operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The court hierarchy in Texas proceeds from Municipal/JP Courts to County Courts to District Courts, then to the Court of Appeals (El Paso for Ector County cases), and finally to the Texas Supreme Court (civil) or Court of Criminal Appeals (criminal).
What Types of Cases Do Ector County Courts Hear?
Ector County's various courts have specific jurisdictional authority to hear different types of cases as established by the Texas Government Code.
District Courts (70th, 161st, 244th, and 358th) hear:
- Felony criminal cases
- Civil matters with amounts in controversy exceeding $200,000
- Divorce and family law matters
- Child custody and support cases
- Juvenile proceedings
- Real property disputes
- Civil appeals from lower courts
- Contested probate matters
County Courts at Law (#1 and #2) handle:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases (Class A and B)
- Civil cases with amounts between $20,000 and $200,000
- Probate and guardianship proceedings
- Mental health commitments
- Appeals from Justice of the Peace and Municipal Courts
- Eminent domain proceedings
Justice of the Peace Courts (Precincts 1-4) preside over:
- Class C misdemeanors
- Small claims up to $20,000
- Eviction proceedings
- Debt claims
- Traffic violations
- Magistrate duties (setting bonds, issuing search warrants)
- Death inquests
- Peace bond proceedings
Municipal Courts handle:
- City ordinance violations
- Class C misdemeanors occurring within city limits
- Traffic violations
- Parking citations
- Code enforcement cases
- Limited juvenile matters (curfew violations, truancy)
The Child Protection Court of West Texas specializes in:
- Child abuse and neglect cases
- Termination of parental rights
- Child protective services matters
- Foster care placement
- Adoption proceedings related to CPS cases
Specialized dockets within these courts may include drug courts, veterans courts, and mental health courts, which focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment for qualifying offenders.
How To Find a Court Docket In Ector County
Court dockets in Ector County provide schedules of hearings, trials, and other proceedings. These dockets are accessible through multiple channels.
For District and County Courts:
- Visit the Ector County District Clerk's website
- Select "Court Dockets" from the navigation menu
- Choose the specific court of interest
- Select the date range to view scheduled proceedings
- Dockets are typically updated daily
For in-person access:
- Visit the District Clerk's Office on the second floor of the courthouse
- Request to view the current docket books
- Staff can assist with locating specific cases or dates
Ector County District Clerk
300 N. Grant Ave., Room 210
Odessa, TX 79761
(432) 498-4290
Ector County District Clerk
For Justice of the Peace Courts:
- Contact the specific JP court directly
- Docket information may be provided by phone or in person
- Some JP courts post weekly dockets on their individual websites
For Municipal Court:
- Visit the Odessa Municipal Court website
- Select "Docket Schedule" from the menu
- Dockets are organized by date and case type
- Call (432) 335-3300 for docket information
For Child Protection Court:
- Access the Child Protection Court of West Texas docket system
- Select the appropriate docket date
- Note that some information may be restricted due to the sensitive nature of these cases
Attorneys registered with eFileTexas can access docket information through their portal, which provides more detailed information about scheduled proceedings.
Court coordinators for each court can also provide docket information by telephone during regular business hours.
Which Courts in Ector County Are Not Courts of Record?
In the Texas judicial system, a "court of record" maintains official transcripts of proceedings and has the authority to fine or imprison for contempt. Courts not of record typically do not maintain verbatim transcripts, and appeals from these courts result in new trials (de novo) rather than reviews of the record.
According to Texas Government Code § 27.001, Justice of the Peace Courts in Ector County are not courts of record. These include:
- Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1
- Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2
- Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3
- Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4
The Odessa Municipal Court is also not a court of record, unless it has specifically adopted provisions under Texas Government Code § 30.00003 to become a municipal court of record. At present, the Odessa Municipal Court operates as a non-record court.
The practical implications of a court not being a court of record include:
- Appeals result in completely new trials in County Court
- No official transcript is maintained of proceedings
- Informal procedures may be followed
- Parties may represent themselves more easily
- Proceedings are generally faster and less complex
All District Courts and County Courts at Law in Ector County are courts of record, maintaining official transcripts through court reporters and following formal rules of evidence and procedure.