Applications for County Court at Law #3 now being taken

County officials have long complained that the case load for our county courts at law is growing beyond what the current two courts can handle.

That’s changing. During its 2017 meeting, the Texas Legislature approved a third.

Now, Hays County is accepting applications for the position.

Qualifications that must be met by those applying to be considered for County Court at Law #3  include being at least 25 years old and a U.S. citizen, with residency in Hays County for at least two years before appointment and at least four years of experience as a licensed attorney. Generally, county courts at law have jurisdiction over misdemeanor criminal cases with fines greater than $500, juvenile matters, mental health commitments, family law, probate, de novo appeals from lower courts and civil cases in which the matter in controversy is between $500 and $200,000. 

The Hays County Commissioners Court will consider appointments of eligible candidates in open session during its meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 2.

Interested parties should submit an application with supporting materials before 2 p.m., Friday, Sept. 14, to Janice Jones in the Hays County Office of General Counsel at janice.jones@co.hays.tx.us or Hays County Office of General Counsel, Attn. Janice Jones, 111 E. San Antonio Street, Ste. 202, San Marcos, TX 78666. Qualifications and jurisdiction information is available online, and the application is available on the county's website.