Fill out the financial information form
This information will help the court make decisions about fines, payment and social service options related to your case.
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. If you are having issues, consult the Zoom Help Center.
Request an online court appearanceReserve 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. Minimize interruptions or background noise.
Be patient with unexpected technical issues or inactivity during the session as we work through the challenges associated with the management of virtual dockets.
During the virtual hearing, the judge will first explain your rights to you.
Please note that all court settings are open to the public. Our virtual dockets will be broadcast live on our Youtube channel.
Discuss your case with a prosecutor. In most cases, the prosecutor is able to offer a deferral option. In a deferral, you agree to complete certain terms within 90 days and the charges do not appear on your record. Terms of a deferral typically include:
- Community service
- An educational program related to the charge
- A fee
The fee can be between $0-$500 and is set at the judge's discretion. It is typically around $150. Alternative payment options and other social services are available based on financial need.
See the judge again. This happens within the same hearing.
Deferral
addIf you choose to pursue a deferred disposition or deferral, the judge will go over the terms of that deferral and make them legally binding. You must complete the terms of your deferral within 90 days and submit proof to the court. If you do not, you will need to appear before the judge again and pay a $500 fine.
Pay the fine
addYou may plead no contest or guilty and pay the full fine for the charge. Alternative payment options are available based on financial need. If you can show proof of incarceration, you may be able to use jail-credit.
Trial
addYou may plead innocent and request a trial by judge or jury. You have the right to do this even without going to a hearing. Email DACCVirtualDockets@austintexas.gov if you wish to schedule a trial.
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.
If you are currently experiencing homelessness, know that:
- DACC’s intensive and triage case managers continue to be available.
- Controlled access to the DACC facility is being implemented according to the 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.
Rescheduled cases
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 an in-person appearance.
All due dates on pending cases will be extended until October 12, 2020.