You must have an electronic device that is compatible with Zoom. (IPhone, Android, tablets, laptops, and home computers with video capability should be compatible).
Run a test via the Zoom platform here: https://zoom.us/test
If you are having issues, consult the Zoom Help Center.
Request an online court appearance
Attach any documentation that you wish to provide within the form. If you prefer, you may email any attachments to: DACCvirtualdocket@austintexas.gov. Please use Adobe PDF format when possible. Due to security issues, other formats may get rejected. If you have not received confirmation that your documents were received within 24 hours prior to your court session or if you have any questions, please call (512) 974-4879.
Reserve 30-45 minutes of time for the virtual hearing. Select a room environment that allows you to focus on discussing your case with the judge and/or prosecutor and minimize interruptions or background noise.
Be patient with unexpected technical issues or inactivity during the session as we work through the technical challenges associated with the management of virtual dockets.
In accordance with the Office of Court Administration, all court settings are open to the public. Our virtual dockets will be broadcast live on our Youtube channel. Additionally, cases needing a plea will be recorded and maintained as a record by the court.
Virtual docket services
- Requests for extensions, payment plans, community service or other requests for relief due to hardships.
- Providing proof of compliance with court orders such as completion of court-ordered classes, community service or other requirements.
- Requests for jail credit – defendant can show proof of incarceration and enter a plea on the case, if needed.
- Assistance with financial forms for financial hardship.
- Speak with a prosecutor to discuss options for resolving your case by either a) a no contest/guilty plea to the charge and work out a way to pay a fine or b) a deferred disposition (probation) to get your case dismissed, if eligible. If you choose to speak to a prosecutor about resolving cases where no plea has been entered, be aware that a prosecutor represents the State of Texas and are not acting as your attorney. Any information you discuss with or provide to a prosecutor might be used in court should your case go to trial. You may end a conversation with a prosecutor at any time and set unadjudicated cases for trial.
Other services
If you would like to contest the charge and set for trial by a judge or jury, speak with a DACC clerk by emailing DACCVirtualDockets@austintexas.gov.
If you would like to contact a prosecutor regarding your case, please email DACCProsecutor@austintexas.gov.
Measures due to Covid-19
The Downtown Austin Community Court (DACC) will remain open for social services only. DACC court and community service operations will reopen along with the Austin Municipal Court schedule. DACC’s intensive and triage case managers continue to be available to individuals experiencing homelessness. Controlled access to the DACC facility is being implemented in order to meet social distancing recommendations of Austin Public Health. You may experience longer wait times while controlled access is in place. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience.
DACC Community Service Program will not be operating from Sunday, March 15, 2020 through Sunday, October 4, 2020.
Cases that are set on dockets will be rescheduled on or after October 26, 2020; defendants will be notified by mail of their new court date. Defendants may still contact the Court online, by email and by phone to get information and handle their cases; many options are available that do not require a personal appearance.
All due dates on pending cases will be extended until October 12, 2020.