For over six decades, Bexar County’s district civil courts have provided a level of efficiency that many other counties in Texas struggle to match. One standout feature is that hearings can be set with just three days’ notice—an exceptional advantage for both litigants and attorneys.
In contrast to other counties, where scheduling a simple hearing may take weeks or even months due to overloaded dockets, Bexar County’s system allows cases to move forward without unnecessary delays. In a San Antonio Express-News Article, 225th District Judge Christine Hortick has suggested individual judges manage their own dockets, this could potentially disrupt the highly efficient presiding system currently in place. In Bexar County, if one judge is busy, any of the 13 other district judges can step in, ensuring that cases proceed swiftly. This collaborative approach has led to the resolution of cases filed as recently as 2023, while other counties are still handling cases from 2018.
Bexar County judges deal with a wide range of matters, including pretrial motions, discovery disputes, and determining whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. By sharing the workload, these judges can handle a significantly larger number of cases with fewer resources. According to a state study, based on the county’s population and over 30,000 cases filed annually, Bexar County could benefit from an additional six to ten district court judges. Despite this shortage, the county still manages to keep cases moving efficiently.
“If you compare Bexar County’s civil courts to others, it’s like night and day,” says David Rodriguez from the Law Offices of Shawn C. Brown, P.C. “The ability to get a hearing scheduled in just a few days is invaluable, especially for clients who need timely resolutions.”
The collaborative nature of Bexar County’s courts ensures that no single judge becomes overwhelmed. When one court experiences delays, another is ready to step in, preventing backlogs and keeping the system running smoothly. While some attorneys may attempt to exploit this flexibility, experienced judges are well-equipped to handle such situations.
In a continuous effort to improve, the judiciary formed a committee in 2024, composed of leaders from various legal organizations, to explore ways to enhance the system. This proactive approach ensures that Bexar County’s courts will continue to meet the community’s needs, even within existing budgetary constraints.
Judge Hortick has raised some concerns in recent news articles on the Express-News, but many practicing attorneys appreciate the current system’s benefits. The quick access it offers—scheduling hearings in as little as three days—is crucial for individuals seeking justice. Additionally, judges have the discretion to retain cases requiring consistent oversight, such as those with vulnerable witnesses, ensuring that sensitivity and efficiency go hand in hand.
Bexar County’s presiding court system, with its collaborative structure, ensures that justice is delivered without undue delay. The district court judges remain dedicated to continuously improving this system, keeping it responsive to the community’s needs.
