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Shemesh Family Law | Law Offices of Amber Shemesh, P.C.
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Denton County Family Court

Dear Denton 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 Denton County Courthouse, including its location, security measures, courtroom procedures, and the judges who may hear your case.

Location and Parking

The address of the Denton County Courthouse is 1450 E McKinney Street, Denton, TX 76209. If you are driving to the courthouse, there is free parking available near the building. While we encourage you to always arrive early, there is plenty of free parking available near the courthouse, so this should not be a worry.

Denton County Courthouse
1450 E McKinney Street
Denton, TX 76209

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 Denton County Courthouse has multiple courtrooms, each assigned to different judges and types of cases. Most family law cases take place on the third or fourth floor. The 467th District Court is located on the second floor. The 158th, 362nd, and the 367th District Courts are located on the third floor. The 16th, 211th, 393rd, 431st, 442nd, 462nd, and the 481st District Courts are located on the fourth floor.

Additionally, all records can be retrieved from the district clerk. The District Clerk is the Honorable David Trantham, and his office is located in suite 1200. The clerk’s phone number is (940) 349-2200. You are not allowed to ask clerks for legal advice.

The Judges and Their Orders

Below are the judges that preside over each courtroom:

  • The Honorable Sherry Shipman:16th District Court
  • The Honorable Steve Burgess:158th District Court
  • The Honorable Brody Shanklin: 211th District Court
  • The Honorable Bruce McFarling: 362nd District Court
  • The Honorable Brent Hill: 367th District Court
  • The Honorable Karen Alexander: 393rd District Court
  • The Honorable Jim Johnson: 431st District Court
  • The Honorable Tiffany Haertling: 442nd District Court
  • The Honorable Lee Ann Breading: 462nd District Court
  • The Honorable Derbha Jones: 467th District Court
  • The Honorable Michael Dickens: 477th District Court
  • The Honorable Crystal Levonius: 481st District Court

The district courts in Denton County are trial courts of general jurisdiction of Texas. They have original jurisdiction in felony criminal cases, divorce cases, cases involving title to land, election contest cases, and other civil matters.

The family law judges in Denton County have adopted a standing order regarding children, property, and conduct of the parties. The Denton County standing order is effective in every divorce suit and every suit affecting the parent child relationship, including a suit for modification or enforcement of a prior order. 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 481st District Court, mediation is required before trial. If mediation is not attempted, each party is limited to 1.5 hours. Mediation is also required in the 442nd, 431st, 367th, 467th and the 393rd District Court. Mediation is especially important in family law cases because it gives the parties greater control over the final decision of their case.

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.