Justice of the Peace Fort Bend County Precinct 3
Located at 151 Stadium Dr, Sugar Land, TX 77498, Justice of the Peace Fort Bend County Precinct 3, presided over by the Honorable Judge Sonia Rash, provides a venue for resolving disputes involving amounts up to $10,000. The court also has jurisdiction over deed restriction enforcement, eviction cases, and civil suits.
This guide provides detailed information on filing lawsuits, defending cases, and navigating post-judgment collections.
Filing a Case in Justice of the Peace Fort Bend County Precinct 3
Venue and Jurisdiction
- Venue: Proper filing depends on the defendant’s residence or the location of the dispute.
- Jurisdiction: Covers civil suits, possession of real property, and liens on personal property, up to $10,000.
Damages and Parties
- Damages: Plaintiffs must support damage claims with evidence and cannot reduce claims to fit jurisdiction limits.
- Proper Naming: Defendants must be correctly named, whether individuals, partnerships, or corporations, to ensure judgment enforceability.
Filing Process
- Complete the petition with clear, specific claims and details.
- The court forwards the citation to the Constable or Sheriff’s office for service.
After Filing
Service and Answer
- Defendants have 10 days to file a written answer after being served.
- The Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act requires plaintiffs to confirm the defendant’s military status before seeking a default judgment.
Representation and Discovery
- Parties can represent themselves or hire legal counsel.
- Limited discovery tools include interrogatories, subpoenas, and requests for evidence.
Post-Trial Procedures
Appeals
- Appeals must be filed within 10 days of the judgment with the required appeal bond.
- Transcripts are sent to the County Court for further proceedings.
Motions for New Trial
- Must be filed within 5 days of the judgment.
Enforcing Judgments
Abstract of Judgment
- Creates a lien on the defendant’s property and is filed with the County Clerk.
Writ of Execution
- Allows seizure of non-exempt property for auction to satisfy the judgment.
Writ of Garnishment
- Enables creditors to freeze and collect funds from a debtor’s bank accounts.
Turnover Writ
- Requires the defendant to surrender non-exempt assets, such as tax refunds, through a court order.
Defendant Options in Judgment Cases
Exemptions
- Protected: Homestead, wages, retirement accounts, and essential personal property.
- Non-Exempt: Bank accounts and luxury items.
Bankruptcy
- Offers relief by halting collection actions and discharging unsecured debts.
