​We have had recent reports that potential jurors are receiving scam phone calls regarding jury duty.  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 Continue reading →

Effective January 8, 2024 through February 17, 2024, Judge Counts’ courtroom in the Midland division will be closed for renovation. All audiovisual equipment in this room is being upgraded during this time. Details on the services to be available will be posted in the courtroom guidance for this location prior to the completion of the project. If you are a practicing attorney in this courthouse, communication will be sent about the changes and technical sessions to visit the space in the near future. Check local Continue reading →

The committee on Civil Pattern Jury Instructions of the Fifth Circuit District Judge Association is requesting comments on proposed Chapter 14 of the Pattern Jury Instructions (Civil Cases): a new chapter that covers Trademark and Service Mark Claims. For more information, click the title of this news item to view the Draft Fifth Circuit Trademark Jury Instructions and Trademark and Service Mark Comment Request.

The technology upgrade scheduled in Judge Pitman’s courtroom (courtroom four in Austin) has completed. All attorneys with scheduled proceedings in this courtroom must review the published information on these changes and be prepated accordingly. To schedule time to visit the courtroom, test equipment, and request any clarification needed, contact the chamber to do so. Generally speaking, all connections in the room are HDMI, along with new wireless connection options for evidence presentation. Although prior physical connections were also HDMI, infrastructure was modernized and therefore all Continue reading →

Effective October 23, 2023 through November 10, 2023, Judge Pitman’s courtroom on the fifth floor will be closed for renovation. All audiovisual equipment in this room is being upgraded during this time. Details on the services to be available will be posted in the courtroom guidance for this location prior to the completion of the project. If you are a practicing attorney in this courthouse, communication will be sent about the changes and technical sessions to visit the space in the near future.