Court Efficiency and Respect for Your Time
Dallas County is very efficient. For example, courts understand that Dallas County criminal defense lawyers take care of business. The misdemeanor courts generally do not require defendants to show up to every single court date if they have a lawyer. In other words, the courts are very respectful of people’s time and do not punish people by making them take unnecessary days off work.
Judicial Accessibility and Flexible Scheduling
Dallas judges are very available. Even if they are not in trial, judges are generally accessible both mornings and afternoons for lawyers to handle court business. Additionally, the scheduling of court dates is very effective; lawyers typically have a choice of available dates, and most court coordinators will accommodate schedule conflicts.
Facilities and Probation Procedures
There are many side rooms at the Frank Crowley Courts Building, which are very convenient for discussing private matters. If a case resolves with probation, plan to get to probation orientation before noon or within the next 5 business days, ensuring you get permission first.
Fast-Paced Case Resolution
Dallas County is fast-paced regarding case resolution, often following the mantra of “call it like it is.” Felony cases move quickly, and the culture of probation and parole is focused on helping people succeed. Furthermore, Dallas County offers a specialized DWI court where a charge may be dismissed if there is more than one DWI charge.
Sentencing Realities and Community Service
Regarding sentencing, it is important to remember that “jail is jail.” There is no “labor detail” program in Dallas County, and while a “roads and bridges” crew exists, it is not widely available. Further, most judges do not allow the payment of court costs and fines up front to excuse community service requirements.
