🚗  Parking & arrival

Plan to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before your scheduled time to allow for parking and security screening.

The Government Center has free on-site parking lots. They fill up on busy docket mornings, so arriving early helps.

The building is south of downtown San Marcos on Stagecoach Trail — not at the historic courthouse on the downtown square.

Your attorney can advise you on the most convenient parking area based on which courtroom you will be using.

🔐  Security screening

Everyone entering the courthouse must pass through security screening — metal detector and X-ray for bags and belongings.

Do not bring weapons, pocket knives, or any prohibited items. Confiscated items will not be returned.

Leave unnecessary items in your vehicle. Large bags and loose change slow down the line.

Silence your cell phone before entering the courtroom. Some judges are strict about phones during proceedings.

If you have a medical device or metal implant, notify the security officer before going through the detector.

👔  What to wear

There is no mandatory formal dress code, but your appearance in court matters.

Business casual is a reliable choice — slacks or dress pants with a collared shirt or blouse. A suit is never out of place.

Avoid athletic clothing, shorts, sleeveless shirts, and clothing with offensive graphics.

Dressing neatly and conservatively shows respect for the court and can make a positive impression.

Your attorney will give you specific guidance on what to wear based on your case.

📋  What happens in court

Hays County criminal dockets typically run in the morning. Your case is one of several scheduled that day.

When you arrive, your attorney will find you near the courtroom entrance or in the designated waiting area.

Most early settings are brief — your attorney speaks with the prosecutor, then both sides appear briefly before the judge.

A “reset” means the case is continued to a future date. This is routine and does not indicate a problem with your case.

You may spend more time waiting than actually before the judge. Bring something quiet to do if it helps you stay calm.

Hays County courts have had increased activity with the county’s growth. Your attorney monitors the docket and will keep you informed.

🤵  Your presence in court

Whether you must personally appear depends on the specific proceeding and the stage of your case.

Your attorney will tell you in advance whether your presence is required. Always confirm before every court date.

When you do appear, arrive on time, wait near your courtroom, and let your attorney speak on your behalf unless instructed otherwise.

Do not speak to the judge, prosecutor, or opposing counsel without your attorney present.

Your attorney’s specific instructions always control — this guide is general background information only.