The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts has provided notice of an apparent compromise of the confidentiality of the CM/ECF system and called upon courts to implement new security procedures to protect highly sensitive documents (HSDs).  We have no confirmation of direct impact to the Western District of Texas specifically at this time.  The Court has implemented procedures for submitting HSD’s the court: Order Regarding Procedures for the Filing, Service and Management of Highly Sensitive Documents – Filed on 1/13/21.

Affecting San Antonio, Midland, Pecos, and Alpine This announcement is for all attorneys practicing criminal law in The Western District of Texas, specifically the San Antonio, Midland, and Pecos Divisions. Beginning January 18, 2021, the U.S. Probation Office for the Western District of Texas will modify the method used to disclose Pre-Sentence Reports, Addendums, and Violation Reports. You will no longer receive a notification (NEF) from CM/ECF but will instead receive an email directly from the U.S. Probation Services Office for the Western District of Continue reading →

The court fee schedule has been updated and is effective as of December 1, 2020. Click here to review the schedule (PDF)

​The U.S. Marshals and the FBI are alerting the public of several nationwide imposter scams involving individuals claiming to be U.S. marshals, court officers, or other law enforcement officials. During these calls, scammers attempt to collect a fine in lieu of arrest due to a claim of identity theft, failing to report for jury duty, or other offenses. Anyone who suspects a jury scam should not provide the requested information, hang up the phone, and immediately notify the U.S. District Clerk’s Office of the U.S. Continue reading →

Chief Judge Orlando L. Garcia has signed the Special Order Concerning Admission of Attorneys which extends the period of time for which the 2019 Federal Court Practice course may be used when applicants are applying to the bar of this court. The entire course must be completed no later than May 31, 2021 in order to fulfill the educational requirements for admission set forth in W.D. Tex. L.R. AT-1(b)(2). Please review the order for additional details.

The United States District Court for the Western District of Texas in conjunction with our partners at the Administrative Office of the United States Courts, the General Services Administration (GSA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) are taking the necessary steps to help ensure the safety of every person who has business in the courthouse. We are actively monitoring the situation on the CDC website. This site is updated daily and provides CDC guidance to assist in protecting everyone. Everyday preventative actions include but are Continue reading →

The Attorney Renewal Fee requirement has been suspended until further notice. There is no requirement, at this time, to send in the renewal fee to the U.S. District Clerk’s Office. This is effective as of July 15, 2017