Texas Rules of Civil Procedure

Transcription

1 Texas Rules of Civil Procedure Table of Contents PART I - GENERAL RULES RULE 1. RULE 2. RULE 3. RULE 3a. RULE 4. RULE 5. RULE 6. RULE 7. RULE 8. RULE 9. RULE 10. RULE 11. RULE 12. RULE 13. RULE 14. RULE 14b. RULE 14c. OBJECTIVE OF RULES SCOPE OF RULES CONSTRUCTION OF RULES LOCAL RULES COMPUTATION OF TIME ENLARGEMENT OF TIME SUITS COMMENCED ON SUNDAY MAY APPEAR BY ATTORNEY ATTORNEY IN CHARGE NUMBER OF COUNSEL HEARD WITHDRAWAL OF ATTORNEY AGREEMENTS TO BE IN WRITING ATTORNEY TO SHOW AUTHORITY EFFECT OF SIGNING PLEADINGS, MOTIONS AND OTHER PAPERS; SANCTIONS AFFIDAVIT BY AGENT RETURN OR OTHER DISPOSITION OF EXHIBITS DEPOSIT IN LIEU OF SURETY BOND

2 PART II - RULES OF PRACTICE IN DISTRICT AND COUNTY COURTS Section 1 - General Rules RULE 15. RULE 16. RULE 17. RULE 18. RULE 18a. RULE 18b. RULE 18c. RULE 19. RULE 20. RULE 21. RULE 21a. RULE 21b. WRITS AND PROCESSES SHALL ENDORSE ALL PROCESS OFFICER TO EXECUTE PROCESS WHEN JUDGE DIES DURING TERMS, RESIGNS OR IS DISABLED RECUSAL OR DISQUALIFICATION OF JUDGES GROUNDS FOR DISQUALIFICATION OR RECUSAL OF JUDGES RECORDING AND BROADCASTING OF COURT PROCEEDINGS NON-ADJOURNMENT OF TERM MINUTES READ AND SIGNED FILING AND SERVING PLEADINGS AND MOTIONS METHODS OF SERVICE SANCTIONS FOR FAILURE TO SERVE OR DELIVERY A COPY OF PLEADINGS AND MOTIONS Section 2 - Institution of Suit RULE 22. RULE 23. RULE 24. RULE 25. RULE 26. RULE 27. COMMENCED BY PETITION SUITS TO BE NUMBERED CONSECUTIVELY DUTY OF CLERK CLERK'S FILE DOCKET CLERK'S COURT DOCKET ORDER OF CASES

3 Section 3 - Parties to Suits RULE 28. RULE 29. RULE 30. RULE 31. RULE 32. RULE 33. RULE 34. RULE 35. RULE 36. RULE 37. RULE 38. RULE 39. RULE 40. RULE 41. RULE 42. RULE 43. RULE 44. SUITS IN ASSUMED NAME SUIT ON CLAIM AGAINST DISSOLVED CORPORATION PARTIES TO SUITS SURETY NOT TO BE SUED ALONE MAY HAVE QUESTION OF SURETYSHIP TRIED SUITS BY OR AGAINST COUNTIES AGAINST SHERIFF, ETC. ON OFFICIAL BONDS DIFFERENT OFFICIALS AND BONDSMEN ADDITIONAL PARTIES THIRD-PARTY PRACTICE JOINDER OF PERSONS NEEDED FOR JUST ADJUDICATION PERMISSIVE JOINDER OF PARTIES MISJOINDER AND NON-JOINDER OF PARTIES CLASS ACTIONS INTERPLEADER MAY APPEAR BY NEXT FRIEND Section 4 - Pleading A. General RULE 45. RULE 46. RULE 47. DEFINITION AND SYSTEM PETITION AND ANSWER; EACH ONE INSTRUMENT OF WRITING CLAIMS FOR RELIEF

4 RULE 48. RULE 49. RULE 50. RULE 51. RULE 52. RULE 53. RULE 54. RULE 55. RULE 56. RULE 57. RULE 58. RULE 59. RULE 60. RULE 61. RULE 62. RULE 63. RULE 64. RULE 65. RULE 66. RULE 67. RULE 68. RULE 69. RULE 70. ALTERNATIVE CLAIMS FOR RELIEF WHERE SEVERAL COUNTS PARAGRAPHS, SEPARATE STATEMENTS JOINDER OF CLAIMS AND REMEDIES ALLEGING A CORPORATION SPECIAL ACT OR LAW CONDITIONS PRECEDENT JUDGMENT SPECIAL DAMAGE SIGNING OF PLEADINGS ADOPTION BY REFERENCE EXHIBITS AND PLEADING INTERVENOR'S PLEADINGS TRIAL: INTERVENORS: RULES APPLY TO ALL PARTIES AMENDMENT DEFINED AMENDMENTS AND RESPONSIVE PLEADINGS AMENDED INSTRUMENT SUBSTITUTED INSTRUMENT TAKES PLACE OF ORIGINAL TRIAL AMENDMENT AMENDMENTS TO CONFORM TO ISSUES TRIED WITHOUT OBJECTION COURT MAY ORDER REPLEADER SUPPLEMENTAL PETITION OR ANSWER PLEADING: SURPRISE: COST

5 RULE 71. RULE 74. RULE 75. RULE 75a. RULE 75b. RULE 76. RULE 76a. RULE 77. MISNOMER OF PLEADING FILING WITH THE COURT DEFINED FILED PLEADINGS; WITHDRAWAL FILING EXHIBITS: COURT REPORTER TO FILE WITH CLERK FILED EXHIBITS: WITHDRAWAL MAY INSPECT PAPERS SEALING COURT RECORDS LOST RECORDS AND PAPERS Section 4 - Pleading B. Pleadings of Plaintiff RULE 78. RULE 78a. RULE 79. RULE 80. RULE 81. RULE 82. PETITION; ORIGINAL AND SUPPLEMENTAL; INDORSEMENT CASE INFORMATION SHEET THE PETITION PLAINTIFF'S SUPPLEMENTAL PETITION DEFENSIVE MATTERS SPECIAL DEFENSES Section 4 - Pleading C. Pleadings of Defendant RULE 83. RULE 84. RULE 85. RULE 86. RULE 87. RULE 88. ANSWER; ORIGINAL AND SUPPLEMENTAL; ENDORSEMENT ANSWER MAY INCLUDE SEVERAL MATTERS ORIGINAL ANSWER; CONTENTS MOTION TO TRANSFER VENUE DETERMINATION OF MOTION TO TRANSFER DISCOVERY AND VENUE

6 RULE 89. RULE 90. RULE 91. RULE 91a RULE 92. RULE 93. RULE 94. RULE 95. RULE 96. RULE 97. RULE 98. TRANSFERRED IF MOTION IS SUSTAINED WAIVER OF DEFECTS IN PLEADING SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS DISMISSAL OF BASELESS CAUSES OF ACTION GENERAL DENIAL CERTAIN PLEAS TO BE VERIFIED AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSES PLEAS OF PAYMENT NO DISCONTINUANCE COUNTERCLAIM AND CROSS-CLAIM SUPPLEMENTAL ANSWERS Section 5 - Citation RULE 99. RULE 103. RULE 105. RULE 106. RULE 107. RULE 108. ISSUANCE AND FORM OF CITATION WHO MAY SERVE DUTY OF OFFICER OR PERSON RECEIVING METHOD OF SERVICE RETURN OF SERVICE SERVICE IN ANOTHER STATE RULE 108a. SERVICE OF PROCESS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES RULE 109. CITATION BY PUBLICATION RULE 109a. OTHER SUBSTITUTED SERVICE RULE 110. RULE 111. EFFECT OF RULES ON OTHER STATUTES CITATION BY PUBLICATION IN ACTION AGAINST UNKNOWN HEIRS

7 OR STOCKHOLDERS OF DEFUNCT CORPORATIONS RULE 112. RULE 113. RULE 114. RULE 115. RULE 116. RULE 117. PARTIES TO ACTION AGAINST UNKNOWN OWNERS OR CLAIMANTS OF INTEREST IN LAND CITATION BY PUBLICATION IN ACTIONS AGAINST UNKNOWN OWNERS OR CLAIMANTS OF INTEREST IN LAND CITATION BY PUBLICATION; REQUISITES FORM OF PUBLISHED CITATION IN ACTIONS INVOLVING LAND SERVICE OF CITATION BY PUBLICATION RETURN OF CITATION BY PUBLICATION RULE 117a. CITATION IN SUITS FOR DELINQUENT AD VALOREM TAXES RULE 118. RULE 119. AMENDMENT ACCEPTANCE OF SERVICE RULE 119a. COPY OF DECREE RULE 120. ENTERING APPEARANCE RULE 120a. SPECIAL APPEARANCE RULE 121. RULE 122. RULE 123. RULE 124. ANSWER IS APPEARANCE CONSTRUCTIVE APPEARANCE REVERSAL OF JUDGMENT NO JUDGMENT WITHOUT SERVICE Section 6 - Costs and Security Therefor RULE 125. RULE 126. RULE 127. PARTIES RESPONSIBLE FEE FOR EXECUTION OF PROCESS, DEMAND PARTIES LIABLE FOR OTHER COSTS

8 RULE 129. RULE 130. RULE 131. RULE 133. RULE 136. RULE 137. RULE 138. RULE 139. RULE 140. RULE 141. RULE 142. RULE 143. HOW COSTS COLLECTED OFFICER TO LEVY SUCCESSFUL PARTY TO RECOVER COSTS OF MOTION DEMAND REDUCED BY PAYMENTS IN ASSAULT AND BATTERY, ETC. COST OF NEW TRIALS ON APPEAL AND CERTIORARI NO FEE FOR COPY COURT MAY OTHERWISE ADJUDGE COSTS SECURITY FOR COSTS RULE FOR COSTS RULE 143a. COSTS ON APPEAL TO COUNTY COURT RULE 144. RULE 145. RULE 146. RULE 147. RULE 148. RULE 149. JUDGMENT ON COST BOND AFFIDAVIT ON INDIGENCY DEPOSIT FOR COSTS APPLIES TO ANY PARTY SECURED BY OTHER BOND EXECUTION FOR COSTS Section 7 - Abatement and Discontinuance of Suit RULE 150. RULE 151. DEATH OF PARTY DEATH OF PLAINTIFF

9 RULE 152. RULE 153. RULE 154. RULE 155. RULE 156. RULE 158. RULE 159. RULE 160. RULE 161. RULE 162. RULE 163. RULE 165. RULE 165a. DEATH OF DEFENDANT WHEN EXECUTOR, ETC., DIES REQUISITES OF SCIRE FACIAS SURVIVING PARTIES DEATH AFTER VERDICT OR CLOSE OF EVIDENCE SUIT FOR THE USE OF ANOTHER SUIT FOR INJURIES RESULTING IN DEATH DISSOLUTION OF CORPORATION WHERE SOME DEFENDANTS NOT SERVED DISMISSAL OR NON-SUIT DISMISSAL AS TO PARTIES SERVED, ETC. ABANDONMENT DISMISSAL FOR WANT OF PROSECUTION Section 8 - Pre-Trial Procedure RULE 166. PRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE RULE 166a. SUMMARY JUDGMENT RULE 167. RULE 168. RULE 169. RULE 171. RULE 172. RULE 173. RULE 174. OFFER OF SETTLEMENT; AWARD OF LITIGATION COSTS PERMISSION TO APPEAL EXPEDITED ACTIONS MASTER IN CHANCERY AUDIT GUARDIAN AD LITEM CONSOLIDATION; SEPARATE TRIALS

10 RULE 175. ISSUE OF LAW AND DILATORY PLEAS Section 9 - Evidence and Discovery A. Evidence RULE 176. RULE 180. RULE 181. RULE 183. RULE 185. SUBPOENAS REFUSAL TO TESTIFY PARTY AS WITNESS INTERPRETERS SUIT ON ACCOUNT Section 9 - Evidence and Discovery B. Discovery RULE 190. RULE 191. RULE 192. RULE 193. RULE 194. RULE 195. RULE 196. RULE 197. RULE 198. RULE 199. RULE 200. DISCOVERY LIMITATIONS MODIFYING DISCOVERY PROCEDURE AND LIMITATION; CONFERENCE REQUIREMENT; SIGNING DISCLOSURES; DISCOVERY REQUESTS, RESPONSES, AND OBJECTIONS; FILING REQUIREMENTS PERMISSIBLE DISCOVERY; FORMS AND SCOPE; WORK PRODUCT; PROTECTIVE ORDERS; DEFINITIONS WRITTEN DISCOVERY: RESPONSE; OBJECTION; ASSERTION OF PRIVILEGE; SUPPLEMENTATION AND AMENDMENT; FAILURE TO TIMELY RESPOND; PRESUMPTION OR AUTHENTICITY REQUESTS FOR DISCLOSURE DISCOVERY REGARDING TESTIFYING EXPERT WITNESSES REQUESTS FOR PRODUCTION AND INSPECTION TO PARTIES; REQUESTS AND MOTIONS FOR ENTRY UPON PROPERTY INTERROGATORIES TO PARTIES REQUESTS FOR ADMISSIONS DEPOSITIONS UPON ORAL EXAMINATION DEPOSITIONS UPON WRITTEN QUESTIONS

11 RULE 201. RULE 202. RULE 203. RULE 204. RULE 205. RULE 215. DEPOSITIONS IN FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS FOR USE IN TEXAS PROCEEDINGS; DEPOSITIONS IN TEXAS FOR USE IN FOREIGN PROCEEDINGS DEPOSITIONS BEFORE SUIT OR TO INVESTIGATE CLAIMS SIGNING, CERTIFICATION AND USE OF ORAL AND WRITTEN DEPOSITIONS PHYSICAL AND MENTAL EXAMINATION DISCOVERY FROM NON-PARTIES ABUSE OF DISCOVERY; SANCTIONS Section 10 - The Jury in Court RULE 216. RULE 217. RULE 218. RULE 219. RULE 220. RULE 221. RULE 222. RULE 223. RULE 224. RULE 225. RULE 226. REQUEST AND FEE FOR JURY TRIAL OATH OF INABILITY JURY DOCKET JURY TRIAL DAY WITHDRAWING CAUSE FROM JURY DOCKET CHALLENGE TO THE ARRAY WHEN CHALLENGE IS SUSTAINED JURY LIST IN CERTAIN COUNTIES PREPARING JURY LIST SUMMONING TALESMAN OATH TO JURY PANEL RULE 226a. ADMONITORY INSTRUCTIONS TO JURY PANEL AND JURY RULE 227. RULE 228. CHALLENGE TO JUROR CHALLENGE FOR CAUSE DEFINED

12 RULE 229. RULE 230. RULE 231. RULE 232. RULE 233. RULE 234. RULE 235. RULE 236. CHALLENGE FOR CAUSE CERTAIN QUESTIONS NOT TO BE ASKED NUMBER REDUCED BY CHALLENGES MAKING PEREMPTORY CHALLENGES NUMBER OF PEREMPTORY CHALLENGES LISTS RETURNED TO THE CLERK IF JURY IS INCOMPLETE OATH TO JURY Section 11 - Trial of Causes A. Appearance and Procedure RULE 237. APPEARANCE DAY RULE 237a. CASES REMANDED FROM FEDERAL COURT RULE 238. RULE 239. CALL OF APPEARANCE DOCKET JUDGMENT BY DEFAULT RULE 239a. NOTICE OF DEFAULT JUDGMENT RULE 240. RULE 241. RULE 243. RULE 244. RULE 245. RULE 246. RULE 247. RULE 248. WHERE ONLY SOME ANSWER ASSESSING DAMAGES ON LIQUIDATED DEMANDS UNLIQUIDATED DEMANDS ON SERVICE BY PUBLICATION ASSIGNMENT OF CASES FOR TRIAL CLERK TO GIVE NOTICE OF SETTINGS TRIED WHEN SET JURY CASES

13 RULE 249. CALL OF NON-JURY DOCKET Section 11 - Trial of Causes B. Continuance and Change of Venue RULE 251. RULE 252. RULE 253. RULE 254. RULE 255. RULE 257. RULE 258. RULE 259. RULE 261. CONTINUANCE APPLICATION FOR CONTINUANCE ABSENCE OF COUNSEL AS GROUND FOR CONTINUANCE ATTENDANCE ON LEGISLATURE CHANGE OF VENUE BY CONSENT GRANTED ON MOTION SHALL BE GRANTED TO WHAT COUNTY TRANSCRIPT ON CHANGE Section 11 - Trial of Causes C. The Trial RULE 262. RULE 263. RULE 264. RULE 265. RULE 266. RULE 267. RULE 268. RULE 269. RULE 270. TRIAL BY THE COURT AGREED CASE VIDEOTAPE TRIAL ORDER OF PROCEEDINGS ON TRIAL BY JURY OPEN AND CLOSE - ADMISSION WITNESSES PLACED UNDER RULE MOTION FOR INSTRUCTED VERDICT ARGUMENT ADDITIONAL TESTIMONY

14 Section 11 - Trial of Causes D. Charge to the Jury RULE 271. RULE 272. RULE 273. RULE 274. RULE 275. RULE 276. RULE 277. RULE 278. RULE 279. CHARGE TO JURY REQUISITES JURY SUBMISSIONS OBJECTIONS AND REQUESTS CHARGE READ BEFORE ARGUMENT REFUSAL OR MODIFICATION SUBMISSION TO THE JURY SUBMISSION OF QUESTIONS, DEFINITIONS, AND INSTRUCTIONS OMISSIONS FROM THE CHARGE Section 11 - Trial of Causes E. Case to the Jury RULE 280. RULE 281. RULE 282. RULE 283. RULE 284. RULE 285. RULE 286. RULE 287. RULE 288. RULE 289. PRESIDING JUROR OF JURY PAPERS TAKEN TO THE JURY ROOM JURY KEPT TOGETHER DUTY OF OFFICER ATTENDING JURY JUDGE TO CAUTION JURY JURY MAY COMMUNICATE WITH COURT JURY MAY RECEIVE FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS DISAGREEMENT AS TO EVIDENCE COURT OPEN FOR JURY DISCHARGE OF JURY

15 Section 11 - Trial of Causes F. Verdict RULE 290. RULE 291. RULE 292. RULE 293. RULE 294. RULE 295. DEFINITION AND SUBSTANCE FORM OF VERDICT VERDICT BY PORTION OF ORIGINAL JURY WHEN THE JURY AGREE POLLING THE JURY CORRECTION OF VERDICT Section 11 - Trial of Causes G. Findings by Court RULE 296. RULE 297. RULE 298. RULE 299. RULE 299a. REQUESTS FOR FINDINGS OF FACT AND CONCLUSIONS OF LAW TIME TO FILE FINDINGS OF FACT AND CONCLUSIONS OF LAW ADDITIONAL OR AMENDED FINDINGS OF FACT AND CONCLUSIONS OF LAW OMITTED FINDINGS FINDINGS OF FACT TO BE SEPARATELY FILED AND NOT RECITED IN A JUDGMENT Section 11 - Trial of Causes H. Judgments RULE 300. RULE 301. RULE 302. RULE 303. RULE 304. RULE 305. COURT TO RENDER JUDGMENT JUDGMENTS ON COUNTERCLAIM ON COUNTERCLAIM FOR COSTS JUDGMENT UPON RECORD PROPOSED JUDGMENT

16 RULE 306. RECITATION OF JUDGMENT RULE 306a. PERIODS TO RUN FROM SIGNING OF JUDGMENT RULE 306c. PREMATURELY FILED DOCUMENTS RULE 307. RULE 308. EXCEPTIONS, ETC., TRANSCRIPT COURT SHALL ENFORCE ITS DECREES RULE 308a. IN SUITS AFFECTING THE PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIP RULE 309. RULE 310. RULE 311. RULE 312. RULE 313. RULE 314. IN FORECLOSURE PROCEEDINGS WRIT OF POSSESSION ON APPEAL FROM PROBATE COURT ON APPEAL FROM JUSTICE COURT AGAINST EXECUTORS, ETC. CONFESSION OF JUDGMENT Section 11 - Trial of Causes I. Remittitur and Correction RULE 315. RULE 316. REMITTITUR CORRECTION OF CLERICAL MISTAKES IN JUDGMENT RECORD Section 11 - Trial of Causes J. New Trials RULE 320. RULE 321. RULE 322. RULE 324. RULE 326. RULE 327. MOTION AND ACTION OF COURT THEREON FORM GENERALITY TO BE AVOIDED PREREQUISITES OF APPEAL NOT MORE THAN TWO FOR JURY MISCONDUCT

17 RULE 329. MOTION FOR NEW TRIAL ON JUDGMENT FOLLOWING CITATION BY PUBLICATION RULE 329a. COUNTY COURT CASES RULE 329b. TIME FOR FILING MOTIONS Section 11 - Trial of Causes K. Certain District Courts RULE 330. RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE IN CERTAIN DISTRICT COURTS PART V - RULES OF PRACTICE IN JUSTICE COURTS RULE 500. GENERAL RULES RULE 501. CITATION AND SERVICE RULE 502. INSTITUTION OF SUIT RULE 503. DEFAULT JUDGMENT; PRE-TRIAL MATTERS; TRIAL RULE 504. JURY RULE 505. JUDGMENT; NEW TRIAL RULE 506. APPEAL RULE 507. ADMINISTRATIVE RULES FOR JUDGES AND COURT PERSONNEL RULE 508. DEBT CLAIM CASES RULE 509. REPAIR AND REMEDY CASES RULE 510. EVICTION CASES PART VI - RULES RELATING TO ANCILLARY PROCEEDINGS Section 1 - Attachment RULE 592. APPLICATION FOR WRIT OF ATTACHMENT AND ORDER RULE 592a. BOND FOR ATTACHMENT

18 RULE 592b. FORM OF ATTACHMENT BOND RULE 593. RULE 594. RULE 595. RULE 596. RULE 597. RULE 598. RULE 598a. RULE 599. RULE 600. RULE 601. RULE 602. RULE 603. RULE 604. RULE 605. RULE 606. RULE 607. RULE 608. RULE 609. REQUISITES FOR WRIT FORM FOR WRIT SEVERAL WRITS DELIVERY OF WRIT DUTY OF OFFICER LEVY, HOW MADE SERVICE OF WRIT ON DEFENDANT DEFENDANT MAY REPLEVY SALE OF PERISHABLE PROPERTY TO PROTECT INTERESTS BOND OF APPLICANT FOR SALE PROCEDURE FOR SALE RETURN OF SALE JUDGE MAY MAKE NECESSARY ORDERS RETURN OF WRIT REPORT OF DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY DISSOLUTION OR MODIFICATION OF WRIT OF ATTACHMENT AMENDMENT Section 2 - Distress Warrant RULE 610. RULE 611. RULE 612. APPLICATION FOR DISTRESS WARRANT AND ORDER BOND FOR DISTRESS WARRANT REQUISITES FOR WARRANT

19 RULE 613. RULE 614. SERVICE OF WARRANT ON DEFENDANT DEFENDANT MAY REPLEVY RULE 614a. DISSOLUTION OR MODIFICATION OF DISTRESS WARRANT RULE 615. RULE 616. RULE 617. RULE 618. RULE 619. RULE 620. SALE OF PERISHABLE PROPERTY TO PROTECT INTERESTS PROCEDURE FOR SALE RETURN OF SALE CITATION FOR DEFENDANT PETITION Section 3 - Executions RULE 621. RULE 621a. RULE 622. RULE 623. RULE 624. RULE 625. RULE 626. RULE 627. RULE 628. RULE 629. RULE 630. RULE 631. RULE 632. ENFORCEMENT OF JUDGMENT DISCOVERY AND ENFORCEMENT OF JUDGMENT EXECUTION ON DEATH OF EXECUTOR ON DEATH OF NOMINAL PLAINTIFF ON MONEY OF DECEASED ON PROPERTY OF DECEASED TIME FOR ISSUANCE EXECUTION WITHIN THIRTY DAYS REQUISITES OF EXECUTION EXECUTION ON JUDGMENT FOR MONEY EXECUTION FOR SALE OF PARTICULAR PROPERTY EXECUTION FOR DELIVERY OF CERTAIN PROPERTY

20 RULE 633. RULE 634. RULE 635. RULE 636. RULE 637. RULE 638. RULE 639. RULE 640. RULE 641. RULE 643. RULE 644. RULE 645. RULE 646. EXECUTION FOR POSSESSION OR VALUE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY EXECUTION SUPERSEDED STAY OF EXECUTION IN JUSTICE COURT INDORSEMENTS BY OFFICER LEVY OF EXECUTION PROPERTY NOT TO BE DESIGNATED LEVY LEVY ON STOCK RUNNING AT LARGE LEVY ON SHARES OF STOCK LEVY ON GOODS PLEDGED OR MORTGAGED MAY GIVE DELIVERY BOND PROPERTY MAY BE SOLD BY DEFENDANT FORFEITED DELIVERY BOND RULE 646a. SALE OF REAL PROPERTY RULE 647. RULE 648. RULE 649. RULE 650. RULE 651. RULE 652. RULE 653. RULE 654. RULE 655. NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY COURTHOUSE DOOR DEFINED SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY NOTICE OF SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY WHEN EXECUTION IS NOT SATISFIED PURCHASER FAILING TO COMPLY RESALE OF PROPERTY RETURN OF EXECUTION RETURN OF EXECUTION BY MAIL

21 RULE 656. EXECUTION DOCKET Section 4 - Garnishment RULE 657. RULE 658. JUDGMENT FINAL FOR GARNISHMENT APPLICATION FOR WRIT OF GARNISHMENT AND ORDER RULE 658a. BOND FOR GARNISHMENT RULE 659. RULE 661. RULE 661a. RULE 662. RULE 663. CASE DOCKETED FORM OF WRIT DISSOLUTION OR MODIFICATION OF WRIT OF GARNISHMENT DELIVERY OF WRIT EXECUTION AND RETURN OF WRIT RULE 663a. SERVICE OF WRIT ON DEFENDANT RULE 664. RULE 665. RULE 666. RULE 667. RULE 668. RULE 669. RULE 670. RULE 672. RULE 673. RULE 674. RULE 675. DEFENDANT MAY REPLEVY ANSWER TO WRIT GARNISHEE DISCHARGED JUDGMENT BY DEFAULT JUDGMENT WHEN GARNISHEE IS INDEBTED JUDGMENT FOR EFFECTS REFUSAL TO DELIVER EFFECTS SALE OF EFFECTS MAY TRAVERSE ANSWER TRIAL OF ISSUES DOCKET AND NOTICE

22 RULE 676. RULE 677. RULE 678. RULE 679. ISSUE TRIED IN OTHER CASES COSTS GARNISHEE DISCHARGED ON PROOF AMENDMENT Section 5 - Injunction RULE 680. RULE 681. RULE 682. RULE 683. RULE 684. RULE 685. RULE 686. RULE 687. RULE 688. RULE 689. RULE 690. RULE 691. RULE 692. RULE 693. RULE 693a. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER TEMPORARY INJUNCTIONS: NOTICE SWORN PETITION FORM AND SCOPE OF INJUNCTION OR RESTRAINING ORDER APPLICANT'S BOND FILING AND DOCKETING CITATION REQUISITES OF WRIT CLERK TO ISSUE WRIT SERVICE AND RETURN THE ANSWER BOND ON DISSOLUTION DISOBEDIENCE PRINCIPLES OF EQUITY APPLICABLE BOND IN DIVORCE CASE Section 6 - Mandamus RULE 694. NO MANDAMUS WITHOUT NOTICE Section 7 - Receivers

23 RULE 695. RULE 695a. NO RECEIVER OF IMMOVABLE PROPERTY APPOINTED WITHOUT NOTICE BOND, AND BOND IN DIVORCE CASES Section 8 - Sequestration RULE 696. RULE 697. RULE 698. RULE 699. RULE 700. APPLICATION FOR WRIT OF SEQUESTRATION AND ORDER PETITION BOND FOR SEQUESTRATION REQUISITES OF WRIT AMENDMENT RULE 700a. SERVICE OF WRIT ON DEFENDANT RULE 701. RULE 702. RULE 703. RULE 704. RULE 705. RULE 706. RULE 707. RULE 708. RULE 709. RULE 710. RULE 711. RULE 712. RULE 712a. DEFENDANT MAY REPLEVY BOND FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY BOND FOR REAL ESTATE RETURN OF BOND AND ENTRY OF JUDGMENT DEFENDANT MAY RETURN SEQUESTERED PROPERTY DISPOSITION OF THE PROPERTY BY OFFICER EXECUTION PLAINTIFF MAY REPLEVY WHEN BOND FORFEITED SALE OF PERISHABLE GOODS ORDER OF SALE FOR RETURN OF ORDER DISSOLUTION OR MODIFICATION OF WRIT OF SEQUESTRATION

24 RULE 713. RULE 714. RULE 715. RULE 716. SALE ON DEBT NOT DUE PURCHASER'S BOND RETURN OF BOND RECOVERY ON BOND Section 9 - Trial of Right of Property RULE 717. RULE 718. RULE 719. RULE 720. RULE 721. RULE 722. RULE 723. RULE 724. RULE 725. RULE 726. RULE 727. RULE 728. RULE 729. RULE 730. RULE 731. RULE 732. RULE 733. RULE 734. CLAIMANT MUST MAKE AFFIDAVIT PROPERTY DELIVERED TO CLAIMANT BOND RETURN OF BOND OUT-COUNTY LEVY RETURN OF ORIGINAL WRIT DOCKETING CAUSE ISSUES MADE UP JUDGMENT BY DEFAULT JUDGMENT OF NON-SUIT PROCEEDINGS BURDEN OF PROOF COPY OF WRIT EVIDENCE FAILURE TO ESTABLISH TITLE EXECUTION SHALL ISSUE RETURN OF PROPERTY BY CLAIMANT CLAIM IS A RELEASE OF DAMAGES LEVY ON OTHER PROPERTY

25 PART VII - RULES RELATING TO SPECIAL PROCEEDINGS Section 1 - Procedures Related to Foreclosures of Certain Liens RULE 735. Rule Rule Rule RULE 736. Rule Rule Rule Rule Rule Rule Rule Rule Rule Rule Rule Rule Rule FORECLOSURES REQUIRING A COURT ORDER Liens Affected Other Statutory and Contractual Foreclosure Provisions Unaltered Judicial Foreclosure Unaffected EXPEDITED FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING Application Costs Citation Discovery Response Hearing Required When Response Filed Default When No Response Filed Order Effect of the Order Bankruptcy Automatic Stay and Dismissal if Independent Suit Filed Attachment of Order to Trustee s Deed Promulgated Forms Section 4 - Partition of Real Estate RULE 756. RULE 757. PETITION CITATION AND SERVICE

26 RULE 758. RULE 759. RULE 760. RULE 761. RULE 762. RULE 763. RULE 764. RULE 765. RULE 766. RULE 767. RULE 768. RULE 769. RULE 770. RULE 771. WHERE DEFENDANT IS UNKNOWN OR RESIDENCE IS UNKNOWN JUDGMENT WHERE DEFENDANT CITED BY PUBLICATION COURT SHALL DETERMINE, WHAT APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSIONERS WRIT OF PARTITION SERVICE OF WRIT OF PARTITION MAY APPOINT SURVEYOR RETURN OF WRIT SHALL PROCEED TO PARTITION MAY CAUSE SURVEY SHALL DIVIDE REAL ESTATE REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS PROPERTY INCAPABLE OF DIVISION OBJECTIONS TO REPORT Section 5 - Partition of Personal Property RULE 772. RULE 773. RULE 774. RULE 775. PROCEDURE VALUE ASCERTAINED DECREE OF COURT EXECUTED PROPERTY SOLD Section 6 - Partition: Miscellaneous Provisions RULE 776. RULE 777. RULE 778. CONSTRUCTION PLEADING AND PRACTICE COSTS Section 7 - Quo Warranto

27 RULE 779. RULE 780. RULE 781. RULE 782. JOINDER OF PARTIES CITATION TO ISSUE PROCEEDINGS AS IN CIVIL CASES REMEDY CUMULATIVE Section 8 - Trespass to Try Title RULE 783. RULE 784. RULE 785. RULE 786. RULE 787. RULE 788. RULE 789. RULE 790. RULE 791. RULE 792. RULE 793. RULE 794. RULE 795. RULE 796. RULE 797. RULE 798. RULE 799. RULE 800. RULE 801. REQUISITES OF PETITION THE POSSESSOR SHALL BE DEFENDANT MAY JOIN AS DEFENDANTS WHEN WARRANTOR, ETC., MAY BE MADE A PARTY LANDLORD MAY BECOME DEFENDANT MAY FILE PLEA OF NOT GUILTY ONLY PROOF UNDER SUCH PLEA ANSWER TAKEN AS ADMITTING POSSESSION MAY DEMAND ABSTRACT OF TITLE TIME TO FILE ABSTRACT ABSTRACT SHALL STATE, WHAT AMENDED ABSTRACT RULES IN OTHER CASES OBSERVED SURVEYOR APPOINTED, ETC. SURVEY UNNECESSARY, WHEN COMMON SOURCE OF TITLE JUDGMENT BY DEFAULT PROOF EX PARTE WHEN DEFENDANT CLAIMS PART ONLY

28 RULE 802. RULE 803. RULE 804. RULE 805. RULE 806. RULE 807. RULE 808. RULE 809. WHEN PLAINTIFF PROVES PART MAY RECOVER A PART THE JUDGMENT DAMAGES CLAIM FOR IMPROVEMENTS JUDGMENT WHEN CLAIM FOR IMPROVEMENTS IS MADE THESE RULES SHALL NOT GOVERN, WHEN THESE RULES SHALL NOT GOVERN, WHEN Section 9 - Suits Against Non-Residents RULE 810. RULE 811. RULE 812. RULE 813. REQUISITES OF PLEADINGS SERVICE BY PUBLICATION IN ACTIONS UNDER SECTION , CIVIL PRACTICE AND REMEDIES CODE NO JUDGMENT BY DEFAULT SUIT TO EXTINGUISH LIEN PART VII - CLOSING RULES RULE 814. RULE 815. RULE 816. RULE 818. RULE 819. RULE 820. RULE 821. RULE 822. EFFECTIVE DATE SUBSTANTIVE RIGHTS UNAFFECTED JURISDICTION AND VENUE UNAFFECTED REFERENCE TO FORMER STATUTES PROCEDURE CONTINUED WORKERS COMPENSATION LAW PRIOR COURT RULES REPEALED TITLE

29 TEXAS RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE PART I - GENERAL RULES RULE 1. OBJECTIVE OF RULES The proper objective of rules of civil procedure is to obtain a just, fair, equitable and impartial adjudication of the rights of litigants under established principles of substantive law. To the end that this objective may be attained with as great expedition and dispatch and at the least expense both to the litigants and to the state as may be practicable, these rules shall be given a liberal construction. RULE 2. SCOPE OF RULES These rules shall govern the procedure in the justice, county, and district courts of the State of Texas in all actions of a civil nature, with such exceptions as may be hereinafter stated. Where any statute in effect immediately prior to September 1, 1941, prescribed a rule of procedure in lunacy, guardianship, or estates of decedents, or any other probate proceedings in the county court differing from these Rules, and not included in the "List of Repealed Statutes," such statute shall apply; and where any statute in effect immediately prior to September 1, 1941, and not included in the "List of Repealed Statutes," prescribed a rule of procedure in any special statutory proceeding differing from these rules, such statute shall apply. All statutes in effect immediately prior to September 1, 1941, prescribing rules of procedure in bond or recognizance forfeitures in criminal cases are hereby continued in effect as rules of procedure governing such cases, but where such statutes prescribed no rules of procedure in such cases, these rules shall apply. All statutes in effect immediately prior to September 1, 1941, prescribing rules of procedure in tax suits are hereby continued in effect as rules of procedure governing such cases, but where such statutes prescribed no rules of procedure in such cases, these rules shall apply; provided, however, that Rule 117a shall control with respect to citation in tax suits. RULE 3. CONSTRUCTION OF RULES Unless otherwise expressly provided, the past, present or future tense shall each include the other; the masculine, feminine, or neuter gender shall each include the other; and the singular and plural number shall each include the other. RULE 3a. LOCAL RULES Each administrative judicial region, district court, county court, county court at law, and probate court, may make and amend local rules governing practice before such courts, provided: (1) that any proposed rule or amendment shall not be inconsistent with these rules or with any rule of the administrative judicial region in which the court is located;

30 (2) no time period provided by these rules may be altered by local rules; (3) any proposed local rule or amendment shall not become effective until it is submitted and approved by the Supreme Court of Texas; (4) any proposed local rule or amendment shall not become effective until at least thirty days after its publication in a manner reasonably calculated to bring it to the attention of attorneys practicing before the court or courts for which it is made; (5) all local rules or amendments adopted and approved in accordance herewith are made available upon request to members of the bar; (6) no local rule, order, or practice of any court, other than local rules and amendments which fully comply with all requirements of this Rule 3a, shall ever be applied to determine the merits of any matter. Notes and Comments Comment to 1990 change: To make Texas Rules of Civil Procedure timetables mandatory and to preclude use of unpublished local rules or other "standing" orders to local practices to determine issues of substantive merit. RULE 4. COMPUTATION OF TIME In computing any period of time prescribed or allowed by these rules, by order of court, or by any applicable statute, the day of the act, event, or default after which the designated period of time begins to run is not to be included. The last day of the period so computed is to be included, unless it is a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, in which event the period runs until the end of the next day which is not a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday. Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays shall not be counted for any purpose in any time period of five days or less in these rules, except that Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays shall be counted for purpose of the three-day periods in Rules 21 and 21a, extending other periods by three days when service is made by registered or certified mail or by telephonic document transfer, and for purposes of the five-day periods provided for under Rules 748, 749, 749a, 749b, and 749c. Notes and Comments Comment to 1990 change: Amended to omit counting Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays in all periods of less than five days with certain exceptions. RULE 5. ENLARGEMENT OF TIME When by these rules or by a notice given thereunder or by order of court an act is required or

31 allowed to be done at or within a specified time, the court for cause shown may, at any time in its discretion with or without motion or notice, order the period enlarged if application therefor is made before the expiration of the period originally prescribed or as extended by a previous order; or upon motion permit the act to be done after the expiration of the specified period where good cause is shown for the failure to act. The court may not enlarge the period for taking any action under the rules relating to new trials except as stated in these rules. If any document is sent to the proper clerk by first-class United States mail in an envelope or wrapper properly addressed and stamped and is deposited in the mail on or before the last day for filing same, the same, if received by the clerk not more than ten days tardily, shall be filed by the clerk and be deemed filed in time. A legible postmark affixed by the United States Postal Service shall be prima facie evidence of the date of mailing. Notes and Comments Comment to 1990 change: To make the last date for mailing under Rule 5 coincide with the last date for filing. RULE 6. SUITS COMMENCED ON SUNDAY No civil suit shall be commenced nor process issued or served on Sunday, except in cases of injunction, attachment, garnishment, sequestration, or distress proceedings; provided that citation by publication published on Sunday shall be valid. RULE 7. MAY APPEAR BY ATTORNEY Any party to a suit may appear and prosecute or defend his rights therein, either in person or by an attorney of the court. RULE 8. ATTORNEY IN CHARGE On the occasion of a party's first appearance through counsel, the attorney whose signature first appears on the initial pleadings for any party shall be the attorney in charge, unless another attorney is specifically designated therein. Thereafter, until such designation is changed by written notice to the court and all other parties in accordance with Rule 21a, said attorney in charge shall be responsible for the suit as to such party. All communications from the court or other counsel with respect to a suit shall be sent to the attorney in charge. [RULE 8a. Suspended effective December 30, 2003]

32 RULE 9. NUMBER OF COUNSEL HEARD Not more than two counsel on each side shall be heard on any question or on the trial, except in important cases, and upon special leave of the court. RULE 10. WITHDRAWAL OF ATTORNEY An attorney may withdraw from representing a party only upon written motion for good cause shown. If another attorney is to be substituted as attorney for the party, the motion shall state: the name, address, telephone number, telecopier number, if any, and State Bar of Texas identification number of the substitute attorney; that the party approves the substitution; and that the withdrawal is not sought for delay only. If another attorney is not to be substituted as attorney for the party, the motion shall state: that a copy of the motion has been delivered to the party; that the party has been notified in writing of his right to object to the motion; whether the party consents to the motion; the party's last known address and all pending settings and deadlines. If the motion is granted, the withdrawing attorney shall immediately notify the party in writing of any additional settings or deadlines of which the attorney has knowledge at the time of the withdrawal and has not already notified the party. The Court may impose further conditions upon granting leave to withdraw. Notice or delivery to a party shall be either made to the party in person or mailed to the party's last known address by both certified and regular first class mail. If the attorney in charge withdraws and another attorney remains or becomes substituted, another attorney in charge must be designated of record with notice to all other parties in accordance with Rule 21a. Notes and Comments Comment to 1990 change: The amendment repeals the present rule and clarifies the requirements for withdrawal. RULE 11. AGREEMENTS TO BE IN WRITING Unless otherwise provided in these rules, no agreement between attorneys or parties touching any suit pending will be enforced unless it be in writing, signed and filed with the papers as part of the record, or unless it be made in open court and entered of record. Notes and Comments Comment to 1988 change: The amendment makes it clear that Rule 11 is subject to modification by any other Rule of Civil Procedure. RULE 12. ATTORNEY TO SHOW AUTHORITY A party in a suit or proceeding pending in a court of this state may, by sworn written motion stating

33 that he believes the suit or proceeding is being prosecuted or defended without authority, cause the attorney to be cited to appear before the court and show his authority to act. The notice of the motion shall be served upon the challenged attorney at least ten days before the hearing on the motion. At the hearing on the motion, the burden of proof shall be upon the challenged attorney to show sufficient authority to prosecute or defend the suit on behalf of the other party. Upon his failure to show such authority, the court shall refuse to permit the attorney to appear in the cause, and shall strike the pleadings if no person who is authorized to prosecute or defend appears. The motion may be heard and determined at any time before the parties have announced ready for trial, but the trial shall not be unnecessarily continued or delayed for the hearing. RULE 13. EFFECT OF SIGNING PLEADINGS, MOTIONS AND OTHER PAPERS; SANCTIONS The signatures of attorneys or parties constitute a certificate by them that they have read the pleading, motion, or other paper; that to the best of their knowledge, information, and belief formed after reasonable inquiry the instrument is not groundless and brought in bad faith or groundless and brought for the purpose of harassment. Attorneys or parties who shall bring a fictitious suit as an experiment to get an opinion of the court, or who shall file any fictitious pleading in a cause for such a purpose, or shall make statements in pleading which they know to be groundless and false, for the purpose of securing a delay of the trial of the cause, shall be held guilty of a contempt. If a pleading, motion or other paper is signed in violation of this rule, the court, upon motion or upon its own initiative, after notice and hearing, shall impose an appropriate sanction available under Rule 215-2b, upon the person who signed it, a represented party, or both. Courts shall presume that pleadings, motions, and other papers are filed in good faith. No sanctions under this rule may be imposed except for good cause, the particulars of which must be stated in the sanction order. "Groundless" for purposes of this rule means no basis in law or fact and not warranted by good faith argument for the extension, modification, or reversal of existing law. A general denial does not constitute a violation of this rule. The amount requested for damages does not constitute a violation of this rule. Notes and Comments Comment to 1990 change: To require notice and hearing before a court determines to impose sanctions, to specify that any sanction imposed be appropriate, and to eliminate the 90-day "grace" period provided in the former version of the rule. RULE 14. AFFIDAVIT BY AGENT Whenever it may be necessary or proper for any party to a civil suit or proceeding to make an affidavit, it may be made by either the party or his agent or his attorney. [RULE 14a. Repealed effective September 1, 1986]

34 RULE 14b. RETURN OR OTHER DISPOSITION OF EXHIBITS The clerk of the court in which the exhibits are filed shall retain and dispose of the same as directed by the Supreme Court. Supreme Court Order Relating to Retention and Disposition of Exhibits In compliance with the provisions of Rule 14b, the Supreme Court hereby directs that exhibits offered or admitted into evidence shall be retained and disposed of by the clerk of the court in which the exhibits are filed upon the following basis. This order shall apply only to: (1) those cases in which judgment has been rendered on service of process by publication and in which no motion for new trial was filed within two years after judgment was signed; and, (2) all other cases in which judgment has been signed for one year and in which no appeal was perfected or in which a perfected appeal was dismissed or concluded by a final judgement as to all parties and the issuance of the appellate court's mandate such that the case is no longer pending on appeal or in the trial court. After first giving all attorneys of record thirty days written notice that they have an opportunity to claim and withdraw the trial exhibits, the clerk, unless otherwise directed by the court, may dispose of the exhibits. If any such exhibit is desired by more than one attorney, the clerk shall make the necessary copies and prorate the cost among all the attorneys desiring the exhibit. If the exhibit is not a document or otherwise capable of reproduction, the party who offered the exhibit shall be entitled to claim same; provided, however, that the party claiming the exhibit shall provide a photograph of said exhibit to any other party upon request and payment of the reasonable cost thereof by the other party. RULE 14c. DEPOSIT IN LIEU OF SURETY BOND Wherever these rules provide for the filing of a surety bond, the party may in lieu of filing the bond deposit cash or other negotiable obligation of the government of the United States of America or any agency thereof, or with leave of court, deposit a negotiable obligation of any bank or savings and loan association chartered by the government of the United States of America or any state thereof that is insured by the government of the United States of America or any agency thereof, in the amount fixed for the surety bond, conditioned in the same manner as would be a surety bond for the protection of other parties. Any interest thereon shall constitute a part of the deposit.

35 TEXAS RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE PART II - RULES OF PRACTICE IN DISTRICT AND COUNTY COURTS SECTION 1. GENERAL RULES RULE 15. WRITS AND PROCESS The style of all writs and process shall be "The State of Texas;" and unless otherwise specially provided by law or these rules every such writ and process shall be directed to any sheriff or any constable within the State of Texas, shall be made returnable on the Monday next after expiration of twenty days from the date of service thereof, and shall be dated and attested by the clerk with the seal of the court impressed thereon; and the date of issuance shall be noted thereon. RULE 16. SHALL ENDORSE ALL PROCESS Every officer or authorized person shall endorse on all process and precepts coming to his hand the day and hour on which he received them, the manner in which he executed them, and the time and place the process was served and shall sign the returns officially. RULE 17. OFFICER TO EXECUTE PROCESS Except where otherwise expressly provided by law or these rules, the officer receiving any process to be executed shall not be entitled in any case to demand his fee for executing the same in advance of such execution, but his fee shall be taxed and collected as other costs in the case. RULE 18. WHEN JUDGE DIES DURING TERMS, RESIGNS OR IS DISABLED If the judge dies, resigns, or becomes unable to hold court during the session of court duly convened for the term, and the time provided by law for the holding of said court has not expired, such death, resignation, or inability on the part of the judge shall not operate to adjourn said court for the term, but such court shall be deemed to continue in session. If a successor to such judge shall qualify and assume office during the term, or if a judge be transferred to said district from some other judicial district, he may continue to hold said court for the term provided, and all motions undisposed of shall be heard and determined by him, and statements of facts and bills of exception shall be approved by him. If the time for holding such court expires before a successor shall qualify, and before a judge can be transferred to said district from some other judicial district, then all motions pending, including those for new trial, shall stand as continued in force until such successor has qualified and assumed office, or a judge has been transferred to said district who can hold said court, and thereupon such judge shall have power to act thereon at the succeeding term, or on an earlier day in vacation, on notice to all parties to the motion, and such orders shall have the same effect as if rendered in term time. The time for allowing statement of facts and bills of exception from such

36 orders shall date from the time the motion was decided. RULE 18a. RECUSAL AND DISQUALIFICATION OF JUDGES Motion; Form and Contents. A party in a case in any trial court other than a statutory probate court or justice court may seek to recuse or disqualify a judge who is sitting in the case by filing a motion with the clerk of the court in which the case is pending. The motion: (1) must be verified; (2) must assert one or more of the grounds listed in Rule 18b; (3) must not be based solely on the judge s ruling in the case; and (4) must state with detail and particularity facts that: (A) (B) (C) are within the affiant s personal knowledge, except that facts may be stated on information and belief if the basis for that belief is specifically stated; would be admissible in evidence; and if proven, would be sufficient to justify recusal or disqualification. Time for Filing Motion. (1) Motion to Recuse. A motion to recuse: (A) (B) must be filed as soon as practicable after the movant knows of the ground stated in the motion; and must not be filed after the tenth day before the date set for trial or other hearing unless, before that day, the movant neither knew nor reasonably should have known: (i) (ii) that the judge whose recusal is sought would preside at the trial or hearing; or that the ground stated in the motion existed. (2) Motion to Disqualify. A motion to disqualify should be filed as soon as practicable after the movant knows of the ground stated in the motion. (c) Response to Motion. (1) By Another Party. Any other party in the case may, but need not, file a response to

37 the motion. Any response must be filed before the motion is heard. (2) By the Respondent Judge. The judge whose recusal or disqualification is sought should not file a response to the motion. (d) (e) Service of Motion or Response. A party who files a motion or response must serve a copy on every other party. The method of service must be the same as the method of filing. If possible. Duty of the Clerk. (1) Delivery of a Motion or Response. When a motion or response is filed, the clerk of the court must immediately deliver a copy to the respondent judge and to the presiding judge of the administrative judicial region in which the court is located ( the regional presiding judge ). (2) Delivery of Order of Recusal or Referral. When a respondent judge signs and files an order of recusal or referral, the clerk of the court must immediately deliver a copy to the regional presiding judge. (f) Duties of the Respondent Judge; Failure to Comply. (1) Responding to the Motion. Regardless of whether the motion complies with this rule, the respondent judge, within three business days after the motion is filed, must either: (A) (B) sign and file with the clerk an order of recusal or disqualification; or sign and file with the clerk an order referring the motion to the regional presiding judge. (2) Restrictions on Further Action. (A) (B) Motion Filed Before Evidence Offered at Trial. If a motion is filed before evidence has been offered at trial, the respondent judge must take no further action in the case until the motion has been decided, except for good cause stated in writing or on the record. Motion Filed After Evidence Offered at Trial. If a motion is filed after evidence has been offered at trial, the respondent judge may proceed, subject to stay by the regional presiding judge. (3) Failure to Comply. If the respondent judge fails to comply with a duty imposed by this rule, the movant may notify the regional presiding judge. (g) Duties of Regional Presiding Judge.

38 (1) Motion. The regional presiding judge must rule on a referred motion or assign a judge to rule. If a party files a motion to recuse or disqualify the regional presiding judge, the regional presiding judge may still assign a judge to rule on the original, referred motion. Alternatively, the regional presiding judge may sign and file with the clerk an order referring the second motion to the Chief Justice for consideration. (2) Order. The ruling must be by written order. (3) Summary Denial for Noncompliance. (A) (B) Motion to Recuse. A motion to recuse that does not comply with this rule may be denied without an oral hearing. The order must state the nature of the noncompliance. Even if the motion is amended to correct the stated noncompliance, the motion will count for purposes of determining whether a tertiary recusal motion has been filed under the Civil Practice and Remedies Code. Motion to Disqualify. A motion to disqualify may not be denied on the ground that it was not filed or served in compliance with this rule. (4) Interim Orders. The regional presiding judge or judge assigned to decide the motion may issue interim or ancillary orders in the pending case as justice may require. (5) Discovery. Except by order of the regional presiding judge or the judge assigned to decide the motion, a subpoena or discovery request may not issue to the respondent judge and may be disregarded unless accompanied by the order. (6) Hearing. (A) (B) (C) Time. The motion must be heard as soon as practicable and may be heard immediately after it is referred to the regional presiding judge or an assigned judge. Notice. Notice of the hearing must be given to all parties in the case. By Telephone. The hearing may be conducted by telephone on the record. Documents submitted by facsimile or , otherwise admissible under the rules of evidence, may be considered. (7) Reassignment of Case if Motion Granted. If the motion is granted, the regional presiding judge must transfer the case to another court or assign another judge to the case. (h) Sanctions. After notice and hearing, the judge who hears the motion may order the party or attorney who filed the motion, or both, to pay the reasonable attorney fees and expenses

39 incurred by other parties if the judge determines that the motion was: (1) groundless and filed in bad faith or for the purpose of harassment, or (2) clearly brought for unnecessary delay and without sufficient cause. (i) (j) Chief Justice. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas may assign judges and issue any orders permitted by this rule or pursuant to statute. Appellate Review. (1) Order on Motion to Recuse. (A) (B) Denying Motion. An order denying a motion to recuse may be reviewed only for abuse of discretion on appeal from the final judgment. Granting Motion. An order granting a motion to recuse is final and cannot be reviewed by appeal, mandamus, or otherwise. (2) Order on Motion to Disqualify. An order granting or denying a motion to disqualify may be reviewed by mandamus and may be appealed in accordance with other law. RULE 18b. GROUNDS FOR RECUSAL AND DISQUALIFICATION OF JUDGES Grounds for Disqualification. A judge must disqualify in any proceeding in which: (1) the judge has served as a lawyer in the matter in controversy, or a lawyer with whom the judge previously practiced law served during such association as a lawyer concerning the matter; (2) the judge knows that, individually or as a fiduciary, the judge has an interest in the subject matter in controversy; or (3) either of the parties may be related to the judge by affinity or consanguinity within the third degree. Grounds for Recusal. A judge must recuse in any proceeding in which: (1) the judge s impartiality might reasonably be questioned; (2) the judge has a personal bias or prejudice concerning the subject matter or a party; (3) the judge has personal knowledge of disputed evidentiary facts concerning the proceeding;

40 (4) the judge or a lawyer with whom the judge previously practiced law has been a material witness concerning the proceeding; (5) the judge participated as counsel, adviser, or material witness in the matter in controversy, or expressed an opinion concerning the merits of it, while acting as an attorney in government service; (6) the judge knows that the judge, individually or as a fiduciary, or the judge s spouse or minor child residing in the judge s household, has a financial interest in the subject matter in controversy or in a party to the proceeding, or any other interest that could be substantially affected by the outcome of the proceeding; (7) the judge or the judge s spouse, or a person within the third degree of relationship to either of them, or the spouse of such a person: (A) (B) (C) is a party to the proceeding or an officer, director, or trustee of a party; is known by the judge to have an interest that could be substantially affected by the outcome of the proceeding; or is to the judge s knowledge likely to be a material witness in the proceeding. (8) the judge or the judge s spouse, or a person within the first degree of relationship to either of them, or the spouse of such a person, is acting as a lawyer in the proceeding. (c) (d) Financial Interests. A judge should inform himself or herself about personal and fiduciary financial interests, and make a reasonable effort to inform himself or herself about the personal financial interests of his or her spouse and minor children residing in the household. Terminology and Standards. In this rule: (1) proceeding includes pretrial, trial, or other stages of litigation; (2) the degree of relationship is calculated according to the civil law system; (3) fiduciary includes such relationships as executor, administrator, trustee, and guardian; (4) financial interest means ownership of a legal or equitable interest, however small, or a relationship as director, adviser, or other active participant in the affairs of a party, except that: (A) ownership in a mutual or common investment fund that holds securities is not a financial interest in such securities unless the judge participates in the management of the fund;