Municipal Court

GENERAL INFORMATION

Functions


The Balch Springs Municipal Court is responsible for the adjudication of Class C misdemeanors and other state and city ordinance violations punishable by fine only. The court conducts preliminary and pretrial hearings and trials collects fines and court costs, and issues warrants of arrest and search.


Appearing in Court


Court is held every Thursday of each month. All cases are heard at 3117 Hickory Tree Road in the Municipal Center. The law requires that you make an appearance either in person or by mail.


PHONE CALLS DO NOT CONSTITUTE APPEARANCE

Citations


If you were issued a citation, you have 20 calendar days from the date the citation was issued to enter a plea, pay your fine and costs, or set a court date. Please allow at least 48 hours for your citation to be filed with the court before information can be given. Juveniles must appear in court with a parent or guardian - you will be mailed a court date. You must notify the court either in person or in writing your intentions on your citations.


Failure to respond to your citation within 20 days from the date the citation was issued may result in a:

  • Warrant for your arrest and assessed an additional $50 fee.
  • Additional fee if sent to a collection agency.

If you feel you are NOT Guilty and desire a trial you may request a court date by filling out the "Request For Court Date" form (SEE Request Forms) and mailing it to the court on or before your appearance date or you may appear in person during business hours. If your address is different from the one listed on your citation, please provide the court with your current address.


Released on Bond


If you have been released on a bond, you must contact the court for your court date (unless otherwise stated on the bond). Failure to appear according to the terms of your bond may result in a bond forfeiture lawsuit being filed against you and a warrant being issued for your arrest.


Case Filed by a Complainant


If a complainant is filed in your case, you will be notified by regular mail of your court appearance.


Court Dates


Court is held every Thursday.




Surety Bonds

Attorney Surety Bond (PDF)