Dallas County Family Court

Dear Dallas County Family Court Client:

Attending court can be a stressful experience but knowing what to expect can ease your concerns. This letter will provide you with important information about the Dallas County Courthouse, including its location, security measures, courtroom procedures, and the judges who may hear your case.

Location and Parking

The address of the Dallas County Courthouse is 600 Commerce Street, Dallas, TX 75202. If you are driving to the courthouse, there is no free parking. The most convenient parking is in the George Allen Garage located at 601 Commerce Street. The parking garage accepts cash and credit/debit cards. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a parking spot, as spaces fill up quickly. There are also public parking lots and street parking options nearby where a fee is also charged.

Dallas County Courthouse
600 Commerce Street
Dallas, TX 75202

Security and Prohibited Items

When you enter the courthouse, you will be required to pass through security screening. The security checkpoint includes metal detectors and x-ray machines for bags. Weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited, including firearms, knives, pepper spray, and any other potential weapons. To avoid any issues, make sure you check your belongings before entering the building.

Courtrooms and Floor Locations

The Dallas County Courthouse has multiple courtrooms, each assigned to different judges and types of cases. Most family law cases take place on either the 3rd or 4th floor. The 254th district court is located on the third floor. The 255th district court is located on the fourth floor. The 256th district court is located on the fourth floor. The 301st district court is located on the third floor. The 302nd district court is located on the fourth floor. The 303rd district court is located on the fourth floor. The 330th district court is located on the third floor.

Additionally, all records can be retrieved from the district clerk. The District Clerk is Felicia Pitre and her office is located in suite 103 on the first floor. The clerk’s phone number is (214) 653-7307. You are not allowed to ask clerks for legal advice.

The Judges and Their Orders

In Dallas County, there are 7 judges that handle family law cases. The first is Judge Kimberly Brown in the 254th District Court. The second is Judge Vonda Bailey in the 255th District Court. The third is Judge Sandre M. Streete in the 256th District Court. The fourth is Judge Mary Brown in the 301st District Court. The fifth is Judge Sandra Jackson in the 302nd District Court. The sixth is Judge LaDeitra Adkins in the 303rd District Court. The seventh is Judge Andrea D. Plumlee in the 330th District Court.

The family law judges in Dallas County have adopted a standing order regarding children, property, and conduct of the parties. The purpose of the standing order is to either prohibit a party from doing a certain thing or require a party to do a certain thing in order to maintain the status quo until a judge can hear the issues and make a ruling. This is helpful in family law cases to maintain stability, prevent actions that could harm the case, clarify responsibilities, ensure fairness, and reduce delays.

Mediation

In the 254th District Court, unless it is court ordered, parties are encouraged but not required to settle their disputes through the use of alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation. In the 255th District Court, mediation is mandatory in all contested cases, except the Court may waive mediation if the trial is short with non-complex issues. In the 256th District Court, the court will appoint a mediator if the parties cannot agree on a qualified person. Mediation is required for any trial longer than 2 hours. In the 301st and the 330th District Court, mediation is mandatory in all contested cases, except the Court may waive mediation if the trial is short with non-complex issues. In the 303rd District Court, mediation is mandatory in all contested cases unless waived by the Court.

What to Expect in the Courtroom

When you enter the courtroom, we will check in with the court clerk or bailiff. Here are some important courtroom etiquette rules:

• Dress appropriately. Business or business-casual attire is recommended. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, flip-flops, anything too casual.
• Be respectful. Address the judge as “Your Honor,” and do not interrupt anyone while they are speaking.
• Remain calm. Even if you disagree with something said in court, stay composed. Your attorney will advocate on your behalf.
• No cell phones. Phones must be turned off or silenced before entering the courtroom.
• No food, drinks, or gum. Eating and drinking are not allowed in the courtroom.

I appreciate your cooperation in following court procedures and look forward to assisting you in your legal matter.

Respectfully,

Amber K. Shemesh, Esq.