Ellis County Criminal Courthouse Guide

Search Ellis County case records through the statewide portal by name or case number, or call the District Clerk for felonies or the County Clerk for misdemeanors. If you have an attorney, they will track every setting for you.

Criminal court is held at the Ellis County Courts Building, 109 S. Jackson Street, Waxahachie, TX 75165, not the historic square courthouse.

By agreement among the judges, the 443rd District Court hears all felony criminal cases. Misdemeanors are heard in the three County Courts at Law. Your attorney can confirm your court before the date.

Your first setting is usually an arraignment or announcement, where the charge is confirmed and future dates are set. It is not a trial. Your attorney uses the time afterward to request the State’s evidence and begin negotiations.

After booking at the Wayne McCollum Detention Center, a magistrate sets bond, usually within 24 to 48 hours. Bond can be paid in full to the county as a cash bond or posted through a licensed bondsman as a surety bond, typically about 10 percent of the amount.

Public parking is available around the Courts Building and the downtown Waxahachie square. Arrive 20 to 30 minutes early so you have time to park and clear security before your case is called.

Phones are generally allowed but cannot be used to photograph or record. Weapons, sharp objects, lighters, pepper spray, vapes, and glass or metal containers are not allowed through security, so leave them in your vehicle.

Missing a setting can lead to a bond forfeiture and a warrant for your arrest. If you cannot attend, contact your attorney right away so they can ask the court to reset the date before you miss it.