Ellis County Court Records Search
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Ellis County is located in north-central Texas, with its county seat in the city of Waxahachie. The county operates a multi-tiered court system that includes two District Courts, a Constitutional County Court, two County Courts at Law, four Justice of the Peace Courts, and numerous Municipal Courts spread across the county’s incorporated cities. These courts collectively generate a broad range of records — case filings, dockets, judgments, orders, warrants, citations, minutes, and transcripts — that document legal proceedings affecting Ellis County residents and litigants.
Individuals seeking court records in Texas can draw on several resources at both the county and state level. In Ellis County, the District Clerk and the County Clerk each maintain distinct categories of records, and the appropriate office depends on the type of case and the court that handled it. Online tools such as the county’s Online Records Search allow users to look up and purchase recorded documents remotely. For those researching court information across multiple Texas jurisdictions, TexasStateCourts.us may assist in locating publicly available case details. Records can also be obtained by visiting clerk offices in person during business hours or by submitting written requests through the mail.
How to Look Up a Court Case in Ellis County?
The method for searching Ellis County court records depends on which court handled the case and which clerk office serves that court.
District Clerk (Felony and Civil District Court Cases)
The District Clerk maintains records for the 40th District Court and the 378th District Court, which handle felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding the jurisdictional limits of lower courts, and family law proceedings such as divorces.
Ellis County District Clerk
Address: 109 S. Jackson St., 2nd Floor, Waxahachie, TX 75165
Phone: (972) 825-5091
Fax: (972) 825-5092
Email: district.clerk@elliscountytx.gov
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
District Clerk: Melanie Reed
County Clerk (Misdemeanor, Civil, and Probate Cases)
The County Clerk serves as clerk of court for the County Courts at Law and the Constitutional County Court, handling misdemeanor criminal cases, county-level civil matters, probate, guardianship, and mental health proceedings. The County Clerk also maintains official public records including deeds, liens, vital records, and marriage licenses.
Ellis County Clerk
Address: 109 S. Jackson St., 2nd Floor, Waxahachie, TX 75165
Mailing: P.O. Box 250, Waxahachie, TX 75168
Phone: (972) 825-5070
Fax: (972) 825-5075
Email: elliscountyclerk@co.ellis.tx.us
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
County Clerk: Krystal Valdez
Online Search Options
Ellis County offers an Online Records Search portal where the public can search and purchase recorded documents, including property filings and court records maintained by the County Clerk. The county provides instructions for using the online search system to help navigate the tool. Attorneys are required to file court documents electronically through eFileTexas.gov, which also provides access to filed documents for participating courts. Pro se parties are not required to e-file but may choose to do so.
In-Person and Mail Requests
Requesters may visit either clerk’s office during business hours with a valid government-issued photo ID. When submitting requests by mail, include the full names of the parties, the case number if available, a description of the documents needed, and the applicable fee payment. Documents received after 4:00 p.m. are processed the following business day.
For records held by the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office, submit a written open records request in person, by mail, or by fax to (972) 825-4941 at 300 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165. The District Attorney’s Office reviews all sheriff’s records before release.
Are Court Records Public in Ellis County?
Court records in Ellis County are generally public under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 552). The Act establishes that any person may request access to government records, and agencies must respond within ten business days. If production takes longer, the agency must notify the requester in writing of a reasonable date when the records will be available.
Records Available to the Public
Most court filings are accessible, including civil petitions, answers, motions, judgments, sentencing orders, property records, liens, and criminal case dispositions. Official public records maintained by the County Clerk — deeds, plats, UCC filings, and assumed name certificates — are also available for inspection and copying.
Records That Are Restricted or Confidential
Texas law provides specific exemptions from public disclosure. Categories of records that are typically restricted include:
- Juvenile records — Confidential under Texas Family Code, Chapter 58; access is limited to authorized parties and agencies
- Adoption records — Sealed under Texas Family Code, Chapter 162; release requires a court order
- Sealed and expunged records — Criminal records that have been sealed by nondisclosure order or expunged are not publicly available
- Grand jury proceedings — Testimony and deliberations remain confidential
- Mental health records — Protected under both state law and federal regulations
- Birth records — Confidential until the 75th anniversary of the date of birth (Texas Government Code § 552.115(a)(1))
- Death records — Confidential until the 25th anniversary of the date of death (Texas Government Code § 552.115(a)(2))
When sensitive personal information appears in otherwise public records, clerks may redact Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and other identifiers before releasing documents.
Formal Open Records Requests
The Ellis County open records request guide explains how to submit written requests to the District Attorney’s Office. Requests can be made in person at 109 S. Jackson St., by mail, by fax to (972) 825-5047, or by email to ecdapio@co.ellis.tx.us. Fees are charged per page and must be paid before records are released.
Copy and Certification Fees (County Clerk)
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Noncertified copy (paper) | $1.00 per page |
| Electronic copy (1–10 pages) | $1.00 flat |
| Electronic copy (11+ pages) | $0.10 per page |
| Certification fee | $5.00 |
| Full-size plat or map copy | $10.00 |
Copy Fees (District Clerk)
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Uncertified copies | $1.00 per page |
| Certified copies | $1.00 per page |
| Electronic copies (1–10 pages) | $1.00 flat |
| Electronic copies (11+ pages) | $0.10 per page |
A 2.4% convenience fee applies to all credit and debit card transactions at both offices. Accepted payment methods include cash, cashier’s checks, money orders, and credit/debit cards. Personal checks are generally not accepted.
Ellis County Criminal Court Records
Criminal cases in Ellis County are divided between the District Courts and the County Courts at Law based on the severity of the offense.
District Courts (Felonies)
The 40th District Court and the 378th District Court have jurisdiction over all felony offenses, including murder, aggravated assault, robbery, sexual offenses, and drug trafficking. Both courts are located at:
Ellis County Courts and Administration Building
Address: 109 S. Jackson St., 2nd Floor, Waxahachie, TX 75165
Phone: (972) 825-5091
Fax: (972) 825-5092
Felony case records are maintained by the District Clerk. Felony court costs, fines, and attorney fees are also payable through the District Clerk’s office.
County Courts at Law (Misdemeanors)
County Court at Law No. 2 and County Court at Law No. 3 handle Class A and Class B misdemeanor offenses, including DWI, theft, and assault. The Criminal Misdemeanor Division of the County Clerk’s office provides administrative support for these courts, issuing warrants, summons, subpoenas, and commitments. For court date inquiries, contact the misdemeanor division at (972) 825-5062 or (972) 825-5070.
Misdemeanor Fine Payments
Misdemeanor court costs, fines, and reimbursement fees are payable to the Ellis County Clerk through three methods:
- By mail — Send a cashier’s check or money order payable to Ellis County Clerk to P.O. Box 250, Waxahachie, TX 75168. Include the defendant’s name and cause number.
- By phone — Call (972) 825-5081 or (972) 825-5082 to pay by credit card. Have your case number available.
- In person — Visit 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165. Cash, cashier’s checks, money orders, and credit cards are accepted.
Payment plan questions should be directed to Court Collections at (972) 825-5081 or (972) 825-5082.
Justice of the Peace Courts (Class C Misdemeanors)
The four Justice of the Peace Courts handle Class C misdemeanor offenses punishable by fine only, including minor traffic violations and certain ordinance violations.
| Court | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| JP Precinct 1 | 207 S. Sonoma Trail, Ennis, TX 75119 | (972) 825-5319 |
| JP Precinct 2 | 701 S. I-35 East, #1, Waxahachie, TX 75165 | (972) 825-5022 |
| JP Precinct 3 | 101 W. Main St., #106, Waxahachie, TX 75165 | (972) 825-5030 |
| JP Precinct 4 | 301 N. 8th St., Midlothian, TX 76065 | (972) 825-5310 |
Sheriff’s Office Records
The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office maintains arrest records, incident reports, and related law enforcement documentation. To request these records, submit a written open records request to 300 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165. A downloadable Open Records Request Form is available on the sheriff’s website. All requested records are reviewed by the District Attorney’s Office before release, and requesters are notified when documents are ready for pickup.
District Clerk Filing Fees (Criminal)
Filing fees for felony-related matters in the District Courts are set at $350.00 for original petitions. Motions for nondisclosure and expunctions are each $350.00. Bond forfeiture filings have no fee. Contact the District Clerk for a complete and current breakdown.
Ellis County Civil Court Records
Civil litigation in Ellis County is handled at multiple court levels depending on the amount in controversy and the nature of the dispute.
District Courts
The District Courts hear civil cases involving personal injury claims, property disputes, contract matters, and other actions where the amount in controversy or the subject matter exceeds the jurisdictional limits of the County Courts at Law. Key filing fees as of January 1, 2022, according to the District Clerk fee schedule, include:
| Action | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Original civil petition | $350.00 |
| Motion for contempt (civil) | $80.00 |
| Motion to enforce or modify (civil) | $80.00 |
| Amended petition adding parties | $80.00 |
| Foreign judgment (civil) | $350.00 |
| Tax suit | $350.00 |
| Condemnation | $350.00 |
| Severance | $350.00 |
| Transfer-in (civil) | $350.00 |
| Jury fee | $10.00 |
Additional service fees include $8.00 per citation, $90.00 for sheriff or constable service, and $175.00 for writs of execution, possession, sequestration, garnishment, or attachment. Certified mail costs $18.00 per mailing.
County Courts at Law (Civil Division)
The Civil Division of the County Clerk’s office serves County Court at Law No. 1, which handles county-level civil disputes. These cases typically involve monetary claims within the court’s jurisdictional limits that do not require district court jurisdiction. Contact the civil desk at (972) 825-5063 or (972) 825-5070. Attorneys must e-file civil documents through eFileTexas.gov.
Justice Courts (Small Claims)
The four Justice of the Peace Courts function as small claims courts for civil disputes where the amount in controversy does not exceed $20,000. These courts also handle eviction proceedings, debt claims, and landlord-tenant disputes. Self-help packets, including a Small Claims Plaintiff packet, are available through the county website.
Recording Fees for Property Documents
Real estate documents, liens, and other instruments are recorded through the County Clerk’s Official Public Records division. Effective January 1, 2024, recording fees are:
| Document Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard document (first page) | $25.00 |
| Each additional page | $4.00 |
| Each additional name (after first 5) | $0.25 |
| Map/Plat (first page) | $70.00 |
| Map/Plat (additional pages) | $25.00 |
| UCC Financing Statement | $35.00 |
| UCC (3+ pages) | $50.00 |
| Federal Tax Lien/Release | $30.00 |
The County Clerk also partners with CSC for electronic document recording, which expedites processing for submitters who prefer not to visit in person.
Ellis County Family Court Records
Family law cases in Ellis County are primarily adjudicated in the District Courts. There is no separate family court; rather, family matters are handled alongside other civil cases within the general jurisdiction of the 40th and 378th District Courts.
Divorce, Custody, and Support
The District Courts hear all divorce petitions, child custody disputes, suits affecting the parent-child relationship (SAPCR), child support modifications, and protective orders. Filing fees for family law cases through the District Clerk include:
| Action | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Original divorce petition | $350.00 |
| Original non-divorce petition (adoptions, other family) | $350.00 |
| Protective order | $0.00 |
| SAPCR | $350.00 |
| Name change | $350.00 |
| Motion to enforce/modify (SAPCR) | $15.00 |
| Motion to enforce/modify (divorce case) | $80.00 |
| Family motions (contempt, modify, intervene, etc.) | $80.00 |
| Transfer-in (family) | $350.00 |
| Foreign judgment (family) | $350.00 |
| Wage assignment to employer | $15.00 |
Protective order petitions carry no filing fee. For divorce and felony records, the county directs inquirers to contact the District Clerk rather than the County Clerk.
Marriage Licenses
Marriage licenses are issued by the County Clerk’s office. Applications must be completed online before visiting the office in person. Both applicants must appear together with valid government-issued photo ID and a Social Security number. The marriage license page provides full requirements and an online application link.
| License Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Marriage license (without premarital course) | $82.00 |
| Marriage license (with Twogether in Texas certificate) | $22.00 |
| Out-of-state applicants | $182.00 |
| Informal marriage | $47.00 |
Personal checks are not accepted for marriage license fees. A $60.00 discount and waiver of the 72-hour waiting period applies when applicants present a certificate from a state-approved premarital education course. Pursuant to Texas Family Code, Chapter 2, the marriage license expires if the ceremony is not conducted within 90 days of issuance.
Vital Records (Birth and Death Certificates)
The County Clerk’s office issues certified copies of birth and death certificates. Online ordering is available through the county’s vital records portal.
- Birth certificates: $23.00 per copy. Ellis County birth records are available from 1850 forward. Texas birth certificates from other counties can be obtained as abstract records. In-person requests are printed while the applicant waits; mail requests take approximately seven business days and must include a notarized application.
- Death certificates: $21.00 for the first copy; $4.00 for each additional copy. Death records are available only for decedents who passed within Ellis County limits. Mail applications must be notarized per Health and Safety Code § 191.0031.
Both types of vital records require the applicant to be an immediate family member or to provide legal documentation of a direct and tangible interest in the record. Applications can be submitted to the County Clerk at 109 S. Jackson St. or mailed to P.O. Box 250, Waxahachie, TX 75168. For statewide vital records information, contact the Texas Department of State Health Services Vital Statistics office.
Ellis County Probate Court Records
Probate matters in Ellis County are handled by County Court at Law No. 1, with the County Clerk serving as clerk of the court for all probate proceedings. The Probate Division of the County Clerk’s office issues citations, writs of execution, abstracts of judgment, letters of guardianship, letters testamentary, protective orders, notices, and other documents required by law.
Types of Probate Records
The Probate Division maintains records for:
- Probate of wills (independent and dependent administration)
- Estate administration and inventories
- Letters testamentary and letters of administration
- Guardianship appointments for incapacitated adults and minors
- Mental health commitments
- Protective orders
- Name changes (when filed through the county court)
Guardianship Registration
Since June 1, 2018, all guardianships in Texas must be registered with the Judicial Branch Certification Commission (JBCC). The JBCC guardianship registration page provides instructions for compliance with this requirement.
How to Request Probate Records
- Identify the case name, decedent’s name, or case number.
- Contact the Probate Division at (972) 825-5079 or (972) 825-5070 to confirm availability and fees.
- Visit the County Clerk’s office at 109 S. Jackson St., 2nd Floor, Waxahachie, TX 75165, during business hours (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.).
- Alternatively, search the county’s Online Records Search portal for recorded probate documents.
- Mail requests should be sent to P.O. Box 250, Waxahachie, TX 75168, with the applicable fee and a description of the documents needed.
E-Filing
Attorneys are required to file probate documents electronically through their Electronic Filing Service Provider. Those who have not selected a provider can begin at eFileTexas.gov. Pro se parties are permitted but not required to e-file.
Fees
Standard copy fees apply to probate record requests (noncertified copies at $1.00 per page; certification at $5.00). Filing fees for probate petitions and other initiating documents should be confirmed directly with the County Clerk’s office, as amounts vary by case type. Payments can be made by cash, cashier’s check, money order, or credit/debit card (with a 2.4% convenience fee on card transactions). Personal checks are not accepted. Checks older than 90 days will not be processed.
Historical Ellis County probate records, including guardianship case papers dating to 1850, are archived through the Texas State Library, which also provides access to marriage records from 1850 to 1934 and divorce records from 1899 to 1936. County Clerk staff can assist with procedural questions but are prohibited from offering legal advice under Texas Government Code § 81.101. Those needing legal guidance may consult the Texas Court Help website or the Texas State Law Library for self-help resources.