Judges, Constables, Deputies, and Court Staff,
We hope your April is going well. It has been nice seeing all of the beautiful wildflowers blooming as we drive to programs! In this edition of updates we have an updated sample confidentiality policy for you to use with your offices, Stress Awareness Month resources, a recent Attorney General Opinion, and more. Don’t forget to scroll all the way down!
Confidentiality Policy Requirement Goes Into Effect May 1 – TJCTC Sample Policy
In February, as required by the Texas Legislature during the 2023 session, the Texas Supreme Court modified Rule of Judicial Administration 7.1 to require all courts, including justice courts, to implement a confidentiality policy. The policy must be provided to existing employees at least biannually, and all new employees must be trained on the policy before performing any substantive work.
Courts must implement this policy no later than May 1, 2024. Download TJCTC’s sample policy.
Read the Rules of Judicial Administration.
Attorney General Opinion KP-0426
Re: Whether a constable may simultaneously serve as a municipal court judge (RQ-0517-KP)
Summary
Constitution and conflicting-loyalties incompatibility preclude a municipal judge from simultaneous serving as a constable.
Stress Awareness Month
We know that your jobs are stressful. Click the photo below to see resources we have compiled to help you reduce your stress and promote wellness in your offices.
National Center for State Courts Explainer Video Series
Presented in English and Spanish, this new access to justice explainer video library offers eight short videos that courts nationwide can use to assist the public:
- Understanding Court Help: Legal Advice vs. Legal Information
- Navigating the Court System Without a Lawyer
- Legal Language 101: Understanding Key Terms in Court Cases
- Understanding Small Claims Court: A Simplified Guide
- Demystifying Legal Procedures: What Does it Mean to File a Motion
- Understanding the Difference Between Civil and Criminal Cases
- Understanding Court Papers: What to Do After Being Served
- Decoding Court Jargon: Understanding Common Procedural Terms
Check the videos out on the NCSC Website.
Coroner Talk Podcast
At a recent program, Judge Woolley suggested a podcast he enjoys on the topic of inquests. We thought some other judges may be interested. It’s presented by Darren Drake, the elected coroner for the county in Missouri in which he resides. You can find the podcast on YouTube, https://coronertalk.com/, or wherever you get your podcasts.
We hope that these resources are helpful, and we look forward to seeing you at a program soon!
Thea and the TJCTC Team
