Do I have to attend my child’s court date?

The short answer is: “if you live in Texas, yes.” Pursuant to Section 51.115 of the Texas Family Code (FC), each of you shall attend each hearing in your child’s case unless the following are true for you:

  • The Court waives your appearance
  • You do not reside in Texas
  • You are a parent of the child but a managing conservator has been appointed for that child and you are not a conservator of that child

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1. Why can’t I look up my child’s case on-line or see a copy of the court’s docket?
2. Why won’t court staff discuss my child’s case over the phone?
3. Do I have to attend my child’s court date?
4. Must my child be represented by an attorney?
5. Is there a dress code and behavior and safety code in your court?
6. What if I cannot afford an attorney?
7. Can I just talk to the judge?
8. Can the Juvenile Court Judge put me under any court orders?
9. Why does my child’s attorney refuse to speak with me about my child’s case?