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

Dear Hunt County Family Law Client:

Attending Hunt County family 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 Hunt County Courthouse, including its location, security measures, courtroom procedures, and the judges who may hear your case.

Location and Parking

The address of the Hunt County Courthouse is 2507 Lee St., Greenville, TX 75401. If you are driving to the courthouse, there is limited parking available near the building. 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.

Hunt County Courthouse
2507 Lee St.
Greenville, TX 75401

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 Hunt County Courthouse has multiple courtrooms, each assigned to different judges and types of cases. Most family law cases take place on the third floor of the courthouse in the 196th District Court or the 354th District Court. If your case is assigned to County Court at Law #1, the courtroom is located on the fourth floor. If your case is assigned to County Court at Law #2, the courtroom is located on the second floor.

The Judges and Their Orders

In Hunt County, there are two judges that are designated to hear family law cases. The first is the Honorable Judge Andrew Bench who presides over the 196th District Court. The second is the Honorable Judge Keli Aiken who presides over the 354th District Court. Additionally, County Court at Law #1 and County Court at Law #2 handle family law matters by assignment from District Courts. The Honorable Judge Timothy S. Linden presides over County Court at Law #1 and the Honorable Judge Joel D. Littlefield presides over County Court at Law #2.

The district courts are the trial courts of general jurisdiction of Texas. They have original jurisdiction in all felony criminal cases, divorce cases, cases involving title to land, election contest cases, civil matters in which the amount of money or damages is $200 or more, and any matters in which jurisdiction is not placed in another trial court.

The family law judges in Hunt County, specifically, Judge Bench and Judge Aiken, 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.

Additionally, Judge Bench and Judge Aiken have adopted a standing order in cases involving child protective services and a standing order on release of certain information in child protective services cases. The purpose of these orders is to protect the child’s welfare, preserve evidence and prevent interference with evidence, regulate parental conduct, ensure compliance with court procedures, and provide stability for the child.

Mediation and Parenting Class

In the 196th District Court and the 354th District Court, parties are encouraged but not required to settle their disputes through the use of alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation. In the County Court at Law #2, all cases set for hearing which are expected to take two hours or more are automatically referred to mediation and shall not be heard by the court until the conclusion of mediation.

Moreover, all Hunt County family law cases involving children shall require the completion of a designated parenting class for all parents and any party seeking conservatorship rights.

What to Expect in the Hunt County Courtroom

When you enter the Hunt County family law 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 Hunt County family court procedures and look forward to assisting you in your legal matter.

Respectfully,

Amber K. Shemesh, Esq.