About Dallas

Dallas, Texas, is a sprawling metropolis anchored in the heart of North Texas, situated on the rolling prairies of the Blackland Prairie region at the confluence of the Trinity River and its tributaries. Covering approximately 880 square miles, Dallas serves as the county seat of Dallas County and stands as one of the most geographically expansive cities in the United States. Its landscape transitions from dense urban corridors and gleaming downtown skyscrapers to quiet suburban neighborhoods, historic districts, and green park systems like White Rock Lake and the Katy Trail, giving the city a layered character that blends big-city energy with distinct local neighborhoods. With a population of approximately 2,613,539, Dallas is the third-largest city in Texas and one of the ten largest cities in the nation. The city is a melting pot of cultures, drawing residents from across the United States and around the world, which is reflected in its vibrant food scene, arts districts, and diverse communities ranging from Deep Ellum and Oak Cliff to Uptown and Far North Dallas. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, of which Dallas is the eastern anchor, is one of the fastest-growing urban regions in the country, continuously attracting new residents and businesses alike. Dallas is a powerhouse of the American economy, functioning as a major hub for finance, technology, telecommunications, transportation, and healthcare. The city is home to numerous Fortune 500 company headquarters, including AT&T and ExxonMobil's regional operations, and boasts one of the busiest cargo airports in the world at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. The Port of Dallas inland logistics network, a thriving real estate market, and a business-friendly regulatory environment have cemented Dallas's reputation as one of the premier destinations for corporate relocation and entrepreneurial growth in the Sun Belt, fueling both economic opportunity and the complex legal landscape that comes with rapid development.

Practice Areas in Dallas

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

Courts in Dallas

Dallas County is served by an extensive court system that handles a wide range of civil, criminal, and family law matters. The Dallas County District Courts, located at the George L. Allen Sr. Courts Building at 600 Commerce Street, Dallas, TX 75202, include numerous numbered district courts that hear felony criminal cases, major civil disputes, and family law matters such as divorce, child custody, and adoption. The Dallas County Criminal Courts at Law, also housed at the same complex, handle Class A and Class B misdemeanor criminal cases, while the County Civil Courts at Law address civil matters involving amounts between $500 and $250,000. For smaller civil claims up to $20,000, residents can file in the Dallas County Justice of the Peace Courts, which are spread across multiple precincts throughout the county and also conduct magistrate functions such as issuing arrest warrants and setting initial bail. Probate matters, including wills, estates, and guardianships, are handled by the Dallas County Probate Courts, while the 14th Court of Appeals in Houston serves as the primary intermediate appellate court for cases originating in Dallas County.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Dallas

In Dallas, the distinction between federal and state court jurisdiction is critically important for understanding where a legal matter will be heard and what body of law will apply. State courts, including the Dallas County District Courts and County Courts at Law, handle the vast majority of legal matters affecting Dallas residents, including state criminal charges, family law disputes, personal injury claims, contract disputes, and probate proceedings. Federal jurisdiction applies when a case involves a federal question, such as violations of federal law, constitutional rights, bankruptcy, immigration, or disputes between parties from different states where the amount in controversy exceeds $75,000. The United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas, with its Dallas Division located at the Earle Cabell Federal Building at 1100 Commerce Street, Dallas, TX 75242, is the federal trial court serving the Dallas area and handles matters including federal criminal prosecutions, civil rights cases, securities litigation, and appeals from federal agencies.

Common Legal Situations in Dallas

Dallas residents encounter a broad spectrum of legal situations that reflect the city's size, diversity, and dynamic economy. Traffic and driving-related offenses are among the most frequent legal matters, given Dallas's heavy reliance on highways and the high volume of vehicles on roads like I-635 and I-35E, with issues ranging from speeding tickets and DWI charges to serious accidents involving commercial trucks. Family law matters are also prevalent, including divorce proceedings, child custody disputes, and child support enforcement, particularly given the county's large and mobile population. Employment law issues arise frequently in Dallas's competitive corporate environment, encompassing wrongful termination claims, workplace discrimination, non-compete agreement disputes, and wage theft matters. Criminal defense cases, from misdemeanor drug possession to felony charges, represent a significant portion of the local court docket, as do landlord-tenant disputes driven by the city's rapidly changing rental market. Business litigation, contract enforcement, and real estate disputes are increasingly common as commercial and residential development continues at a rapid pace throughout Dallas County.

Why Go To Court for Dallas Legal Matters

Go To Court Lawyers is a trusted choice for Dallas residents navigating the complexities of the Texas legal system, offering access to an experienced team of attorneys who understand the nuances of Dallas County courts and local legal procedures. Whether you are facing a criminal charge, a family law dispute, or a civil matter, Go To Court provides a free 24/7 legal hotline so you can get answers and guidance at any hour, without waiting for the next business day. The firm is committed to transparency in legal costs, with fixed-fee pricing options coming soon that will give clients greater certainty and peace of mind when budgeting for legal representation. With a client-focused approach and a broad network of legal professionals across Texas, Go To Court is well-positioned to connect Dallas residents with the right legal expertise for their specific situation.

Free — available now

In Dallas and have a legal question?

Call our free hotline right now — available 24/7, no obligation.

Call free now

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket in Dallas?

If you receive a traffic ticket in Dallas, you have several options, including paying the fine, requesting deferred adjudication to keep the offense off your record, or contesting the ticket in the relevant Justice of the Peace Court. It is worth consulting with a traffic attorney before simply paying, as certain violations can add points to your license, increase your insurance premiums, or even result in a license suspension. An attorney can evaluate the circumstances of your ticket and advise you on the best course of action.

How does the divorce process work in Dallas County?

In Texas, divorce is filed in the District Court of the county where at least one spouse has lived for the past 90 days, making Dallas County District Courts the appropriate venue for most local residents. Texas requires a mandatory 60-day waiting period after filing before a divorce can be finalized, though contested divorces involving property division, child custody, or spousal support can take considerably longer. An experienced family law attorney can help you understand your rights regarding community property, child custody arrangements, and support obligations under Texas law.

Can I expunge a criminal record in Texas if I was arrested in Dallas?

Texas law allows for the expunction of certain criminal records, including arrests that did not result in conviction, charges that were dismissed, or offenses for which you received deferred adjudication and subsequently completed the required conditions. Expunction effectively removes the record from public access, meaning you can legally deny the arrest in most circumstances. However, eligibility depends on the specific offense, your case outcome, and applicable waiting periods, so it is important to consult with a criminal defense attorney to determine whether you qualify.

What are my rights if I am stopped by Dallas police?

If you are stopped by Dallas police, you have the right to remain silent and are not required to answer questions beyond identifying yourself, as Texas law requires drivers to provide their name, date of birth, and address upon a lawful stop. You also have the right to refuse consent to a search of your vehicle, though officers may still conduct a search if they have probable cause or a warrant. It is advisable to remain calm, be polite, and contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you are detained or arrested.

How do I handle a landlord-tenant dispute in Dallas?

Landlord-tenant disputes in Dallas, such as security deposit disagreements, unlawful evictions, or habitability issues, are generally handled through the Dallas County Justice of the Peace Courts for eviction proceedings or through the County Civil Courts at Law for larger monetary claims. Texas law provides specific timelines and procedures that both landlords and tenants must follow, including proper notice requirements before eviction can proceed. Consulting with a tenant rights or landlord attorney early in the dispute can help you understand your legal obligations and options before the matter escalates to court.

Neighbouring Counties

Dallas County is bordered by Collin County to the north, Rockwall County to the northeast, Kaufman County to the east, Ellis County to the south, Tarrant County to the west, and Denton County to the northwest.