Online Learning, News, & Legislative Updates
This edition includes some interesting online learning opportunities, a few news updates, and the below button to sign up for our upcoming Legislative Updates in case you missed our earlier emails.
Visit https://www.tjctc.org/legislative.html to register for a Legislative Update.
Updated Moving Violation Link
The link for the chart of Moving Violations has been updated. This is the list courts use to determine Driving Safety Course eligible offenses for defendants under the age of 25.
The new link is: https://www.sos.texas.gov/texreg/archive/October252024/tables-and-graphics/202404823-1.pdf
TJCTC materials will be updated later this year to include this new link and other legislative changes.
Note: There has been some confusion about when this list is used, but nothing has changed for that purpose – the web link was the only change. For more information about when to use this list, please see pages 46-48 of the Criminal Deskbook.
15th Court of Appeals Court Overturned San Marcos’ Marijuana Decriminalization Ordinance
Earlier this month, the Fifteenth Court of Appeals sided with the State of Texas in its lawsuit against the city of San Marcos, mayor, city council and police chief. The court found the ordinance violates Section 370.003 of the Texas Local Government Code, which prohibits local governments from adopting policies that do not fully enforce state drug laws.
The ordinance barred San Marcos Police Department (SMPD) from arresting or citing individuals for marijuana possession of up to four ounces, except under limited felony-related circumstances. The ordinance also prohibited the use of THC testing for prosecution, the use of marijuana odor as probable cause and citations for paraphernalia or residue.
What does this mean for justice courts?
While this isn’t fully settled across the state, you may see similar ordinances in your area being changed or not enforced. You may see more class c offenses related to marijuana or THC in your courts.
Read the case.
Note, the topics of hemp, marijuana, and THC have also been referenced in pending legislation, so there might be more news about related laws later this summer.
**This week** Webinar from State Bar Justice Court Section: Repair and Remedy and Repair and Deduct Claims in Justice Courts
Friday, April 25, 2025, Noon – 1 pm
This session will offer 1 hour MCLE credit. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to join the webinar.
Course Description: This presentation will provide a statutory and procedural overview of Repair and Remedy and Repair and Deduct claims, both governed by Chapter 92, Subchapter B of the Texas Property Code, in Justice Courts. Additionally, this presentation will review relevant caselaw related to Repair and Remedy and Repair and Deduct claims and further provide practical considerations and best practices.
We hope to see you in attendance!
Instructors: Marisela Gonzales and Stuart Campbell
Note: This is not a TJCTC sponsored webinar, but from a section of the Texas State Bar Association.
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/9tGEclvBQ7-SRjE9A6MuvA#/registration
From the Judicial Commission on Mental Health
JCMH Rural Issues Committee
Rural communities in Texas make up an overwhelming number of jurisdictions in the state, and the issues they face are unique and often overlooked. Limited access to healthcare professionals, travel distances, and funding issues are among the most-common issues we’ve heard raised by rural communities, and so JCMH is launching a committee dedicated to focusing on the issues faced by rural communities at the intersection of mental health and justice.
This committee will focus on collaboration, idea-sharing, and adapting solutions to rural communities. Bringing together experts and community and judicial leaders can develop sustainable solutions, and raise common obstacles for statewide consideration. Keep an eye out for more information on partnering in these efforts, and email us at jcmh@txcourts.gov to express interest or share your ideas!
Upcoming TJCTC Webinars
Clearing Your Docket While Helping Your Community: An Update
June 5th from 2:00 – 4:00 pm
This webinar will be an overview of strategies to clear criminal case dockets while ensuring that indigent defendants’ rights are protected.
It will include information about Omnibase holds, waiver of fines and fees, community service plans, other indigent assistance strategies, and include relevant legislative updates
Register: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_spcexLIFROSVykhcZrpsZg#/registration
Updated Self-Represented Litigant (SRL) Page
Did you know that TJCTC updated our Self-Represented Litigant Page?
We made some updates and added a few more resources. Make sure you take a look and feel free to share with people who come to your court looking for assistance.
Note: There are several great videos about court procedures from the National Center for State Courts and the Austin Young Lawyers Association available there now as well.
Check out the SRL Page: https://www.tjctc.org/srl.html
