Arrested in McLennan County? Here's What Happens Next

Criminal Courts in McLennan County

What to Expect at the McLennan County Courthouse

Where to Park

Street parking and public lots serve the courthouse square in downtown Waco. Plan extra time to park and to clear security on busy docket mornings.

What to Bring

Bring a photo ID, any paperwork or letters about your case, and your attorney’s contact information. Coordinate with your lawyer beforehand so you arrive knowing which court your case is in.

How to Dress

Treat court like a job interview. Business or business-casual clothing shows the judge you take the matter seriously. Avoid shorts, tank tops, hats, and clothing with offensive images or wording.

Finding Your Court

McLennan County’s felony criminal docket is heard in the 19th and 54th District Courts, and misdemeanors in the 3 County Courts at Law, in the courthouse and its Annex. Confirm your court before you arrive and check the posted docket outside the courtroom.

Arraignment, Pretrial, and Trial

Your first setting is usually an initial appearance where the charge and bond conditions are confirmed and future dates are set. Pretrial settings are where your attorney reviews the State’s evidence and negotiates. Most cases resolve before trial, but if yours does not it is set for a contested hearing or jury trial.

How Bond Works

After booking at the McLennan County Jail, bond must be posted before release. Bond can be paid as a cash bond to the county or posted through a licensed bondsman as a surety bond. A magistrate sets the amount and conditions, weighing your ties to the community and any risk you pose.

How Dockets Move

McLennan County has a reputation as a law-and-order jurisdiction, with substantial plea offers and juries that assess significant sentences. The unified District Attorney’s Office handles both felony and misdemeanor prosecution, so the same office is across the table at every stage.

If You Have to Miss a Setting

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 the setting is missed.

Security and What You Can Bring Inside

Everyone entering the McLennan County Courthouse passes through a security checkpoint with a metal detector, and bags are subject to search. Arrive early enough to clear the line, which is longest during the morning docket.

Leave anything that could be considered a weapon in your vehicle, including pocket knives and pepper spray. Firearms are not permitted, even with a License to Carry. Phones are generally allowed but must be silenced, and most courtrooms prohibit photography or recording.

Getting Here

Free and paid parking nearby. Quick directions from the most common starting points.

From Our Waco office (605 Austin Avenue, Suite 5)
A short drive to the McLennan County Courthouse at 501 Washington Avenue in downtown Waco.

From Downtown Waco
Street parking and public lots serve the courthouse square. Allow extra time to park and clear security before your setting.

Jail, Bond, and County Offices

McLennan County Jail

3201 E Highway 6
Waco, TX 76705
(254) 757-5095

Inmate search at mclennan.gov.

McLennan County District Attorney

219 N 6th Street, Suite 200
Waco, TX 76701
(254) 757-5084

DA Josh Tetens. Located in the Courthouse Annex.

Law Enforcement Agencies

Online Court Resources

• McLennan County Inmate Search — Look up current jail inmates.