About Bastrop

Bastrop County is located in the heart of Central Texas, situated along the Colorado River approximately 30 miles southeast of Austin. The county encompasses 888 square miles of diverse terrain, including the iconic Lost Pines forest — an isolated stand of loblolly pines that exists far from the main Piney Woods of East Texas. This unique natural feature, combined with rolling hills, river bottomlands, and open prairies, gives Bastrop County a distinctive character that sets it apart from its neighbors in the greater Austin metropolitan region. The county seat, the City of Bastrop, sits along a scenic bend of the Colorado River and retains much of its 19th-century architectural charm, making it a popular destination for day-trippers and history enthusiasts alike. With a population of 97,216 residents, Bastrop County has experienced significant growth over the past two decades, driven largely by its proximity to Austin and the broader boom of the Texas capital region. The county blends longtime rural communities and ranching families with newer suburban developments and transplants seeking more affordable living outside Austin's city limits. Towns such as Elgin, Smithville, and Cedar Creek each contribute their own distinct character to the county's social fabric, while the city of Bastrop itself serves as the civic and commercial hub. This blend of old and new creates a community that is simultaneously rooted in Texas tradition and increasingly connected to the modern economy. Economically, Bastrop County has diversified considerably in recent years. Agriculture — including cattle ranching, hay production, and specialty crops — remains an important part of the county's heritage and income base. However, the growth of light manufacturing, retail, and service industries has expanded employment opportunities for residents. The presence of SpaceX's development and testing facilities in nearby Boca Chica, combined with the expansion of tech and logistics operations drawn to Central Texas, has begun influencing Bastrop's economic outlook. Small businesses, tourism tied to the Lost Pines region and the Colorado River, and a growing construction sector round out an economy that continues to evolve alongside the broader transformation of the Austin-Round Rock metropolitan area.

Practice Areas in Bastrop

Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Charges, arrests, bail and criminal trials.
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DUI
DUI
DUI charges, licence suspension and reinstatement.
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Family Law
Family Law
Divorce, custody, property and support.
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Immigration Law
Immigration
Visas, green cards, deportation and citizenship.
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Traffic Law
Traffic Law
Traffic violations, licence matters and offences.
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Employment Law
Employment Law
Wrongful termination, discrimination, disputes.
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Courts in Bastrop

Bastrop County is served by several courts handling a wide range of civil and criminal matters. The 21st District Court and the 335th District Court are the primary district courts in Bastrop County, located at the Bastrop County Courthouse at 804 Pecan Street, Bastrop, TX 78602, and they handle felony criminal cases, major civil disputes, family law matters including divorce and child custody, and juvenile cases. The County Court at Law of Bastrop County, also located at the courthouse, handles Class A and B misdemeanor criminal cases, probate matters, mental health hearings, and civil cases involving smaller monetary amounts. Bastrop County also maintains a Justice of the Peace Court, which presides over small claims cases, Class C misdemeanors, eviction proceedings, and other minor civil matters. Municipal courts within incorporated cities such as Elgin and Smithville handle city ordinance violations and Class C misdemeanors arising within their respective jurisdictions.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Bastrop

Residents of Bastrop County should understand the distinction between state and federal court jurisdiction, as it determines where a legal matter will be heard. The vast majority of legal issues — including state criminal charges, family law cases, property disputes, and most civil claims — are handled in Bastrop County's state courts under Texas law. Federal matters, such as cases involving federal crimes, immigration, bankruptcy, civil rights violations under federal statutes, or disputes between citizens of different states involving more than $75,000, are heard in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas, with the Austin Division being the most relevant venue for Bastrop County residents, located at 501 West 5th Street, Austin, TX 78701. An attorney familiar with both state and federal practice can help Bastrop residents determine which court system governs their particular situation and ensure their case is filed in the proper venue.

Common Legal Situations in Bastrop

Given Bastrop County's character as a growing semi-rural community with major state highways such as TX-71 and US-290 running through it, traffic violations and DWI charges are among the most frequently encountered legal matters for residents. The county's rapid population growth has also led to an increase in family law cases, including divorce, child custody modifications, and child support disputes, as changing demographics bring new household dynamics. Property and land issues — including boundary disputes, easements, deed questions, and landlord-tenant conflicts tied to the expanding rental market — arise regularly given the county's mix of rural acreage and new residential developments. Criminal defense matters ranging from drug possession to assault are also common, as is the need for estate planning and probate services among the county's aging and growing population. Employment law issues, including workplace injuries and wage disputes, have grown alongside the expansion of construction, manufacturing, and retail sectors in the county.

Why Go To Court for Bastrop Legal Matters

Go To Court Lawyers is a strong choice for Bastrop County residents seeking reliable, accessible legal representation across a wide range of practice areas. The firm offers a 24/7 free legal hotline, meaning that whether a resident faces an urgent situation in the middle of the night or needs quick guidance on a pressing legal question, experienced help is just a phone call away. Fixed-fee arrangements are coming soon, which will give Bastrop clients greater transparency and predictability when it comes to understanding the cost of their legal representation. With an experienced team that handles matters across criminal law, family law, civil litigation, and more, Go To Court is well-positioned to serve the diverse legal needs of Bastrop County's growing community.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket in Bastrop County?

If you receive a traffic ticket in Bastrop County, you generally have the option to pay the fine, take a defensive driving course if eligible, or contest the ticket in the appropriate court. Fighting a ticket can be worthwhile, especially if a conviction would impact your driving record or insurance premiums. Consulting with a lawyer before deciding how to respond can help you understand your options and potentially avoid long-term consequences.

How does the divorce process work in Bastrop County?

Divorce in Bastrop County is filed in one of the district courts and is governed by Texas family law, which requires at least one spouse to have been a Texas resident for six months and a Bastrop County resident for at least 90 days before filing. Texas is a community property state, meaning most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are divided equally, though courts have discretion to divide property in a just and right manner. If children are involved, the court will also address custody, visitation, and child support as part of the proceedings.

Can I be charged with a DWI in Bastrop County even if I feel fine to drive?

Yes — in Texas, a person can be charged with Driving While Intoxicated if their blood alcohol concentration is 0.08% or higher, or if alcohol or drugs have impaired their normal mental or physical faculties, regardless of how they feel subjectively. Law enforcement in Bastrop County actively patrols highways like TX-71, and DWI checkpoints and sobriety patrols are not uncommon. A DWI conviction carries serious penalties including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time, so it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible after an arrest.

What are my rights as a tenant facing eviction in Bastrop County?

Texas law requires a landlord to provide a written notice to vacate before filing an eviction lawsuit, typically giving the tenant at least three days to leave unless the lease specifies a different notice period. Eviction cases in Bastrop County are initially heard before a Justice of the Peace, and tenants have the right to appear and present a defense, such as disputing the grounds for eviction or showing that rent was paid. If you lose at the Justice of the Peace level, you have the right to appeal to the County Court, but you must do so within five days of the judgment.

Do I need a lawyer to create a will or handle a loved one's estate in Bastrop County?

While Texas law does not strictly require an attorney to draft a will or administer an estate, having a lawyer ensures that your will meets all legal requirements and accurately reflects your wishes, reducing the chance of disputes after your passing. Probate in Bastrop County is handled through the County Court at Law and can range from a straightforward independent administration to more complex contested proceedings. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you choose the right strategy — whether a formal will, a transfer-on-death deed, or a trust — to protect your assets and your family.

Neighbouring Counties

Bastrop County is bordered by Travis County to the west, Caldwell County to the south, Fayette County to the southeast, Lee County to the east, and Williamson County to the north.