markgoodner

C3 (Councils, Courts, and Cities) Turns Five

Mark Goodner sat down with Ryan Turner to discuss C3 and the upcoming Fines and Fees Exposition and Showcase. Eligible participants at the event can receive reimbursement for travel and meals consistent with TMCEC’s grant terms. Mark Goodner: Ryan, can you believe it’s been five years since our public information and education campaign C3 (Councils,Continue reading “C3 (Councils, Courts, and Cities) Turns Five”

New Rules—Do They Apply?

On November 1, 2022, the Office of Court Administration (OCA) announced via email that the Supreme Court of Texas and Court of Criminal Appeals approved amendments to the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (TRCP), Texas Rules of Appellate Procedure (TRAP), and Texas Rules of Judicial Administration (TRJA). These changes, among other things, relate to certainContinue reading “New Rules—Do They Apply?“

Texas Supreme Court Issues 57th Emergency Order

On October 31, 2022, the Supreme Court of Texas issued the 57th Emergency Order, which is effective immediately and renews the 55th Emergency Order through 2022. The 57th Emergency Order makes no substantive changes to the 55th Emergency Order. Notably, Texas courts are still, subject to constitutional limitations, permitted to conduct virtual proceedings without participants’Continue reading “Texas Supreme Court Issues 57th Emergency Order”

AY23 Highlight: Dangerous and Mistreated Animals

Mark Goodner and Ben Gibbs took a moment to discuss a topic from the 2023 Academic Year curriculum. Mark Goodner: Ben, it’s been a whirlwind start to our 2022-2023 Academic Year. Last week, we held our East Texas Regional Clerks and Judges Seminars. It was such a wonderful audience and a great start for TMCEC.Continue reading “AY23 Highlight: Dangerous and Mistreated Animals”

Supreme Court Issues 55th Emergency Order

Yesterday, the Supreme Court issued the 55th Emergency Order. The order goes into effect September 1, 2022 and expires November 1, 2022, unless extended by the Court. Of note, municipal courts may continue to use reasonable efforts to conduct proceedings remotely, but courts may not require a lawyer, party, or juror to appear remotely forContinue reading “Supreme Court Issues 55th Emergency Order”

Accessing the OLC 2.0!

With just one day left in the 2021-2022 Academic Year, some judges and court personnel may be looking to complete a last webinar or two for clerk certification or judicial education hours. Please see the graphic below for a simple step-by-step process to access.

Judges and the Ethics of Fundraising

Fundraising by judges can be a tricky business. Judges may participate in activities outside the court, but many charitable and civic-minded organizations rely upon donations from the public to run. Participation in worthwhile organizations that depend on fundraising for support is a continuing dilemma for judges. First, an elected judge may raise funds for election,Continue reading “Judges and the Ethics of Fundraising”

TCCA Highlight: Pat Riffel

Mark Goodner sat down with Pat Riffel to discuss the Texas Court Clerks Association (TCCA). MG: Pat, first of all let me say congratulations again for being named the TMCA Outstanding Clerk of the Year at the recent TMCA Annual Meeting. I know you don’t want me to mention that, but I am so happyContinue reading “TCCA Highlight: Pat Riffel “

Municipal Court Week: November 7-11, 2022

Municipal Court Week is a time to appreciate the dedicated individuals that comprise the Texas municipal judiciary. It is also a great opportunity to share with the public the important role that local courts and their personnel play in preserving public safety. Every city celebrates in their own unique way. TMCEC encourages all municipal courtsContinue reading “Municipal Court Week: November 7-11, 2022”

This Month in Case Law History: Sabine and Individual Liability for Officers of Corporations

31 years ago this month, a the Austin Court of Appeals reached a decision in a case cited in Chapter 15 of the TMCEC Bench Book (Corporations and Associations). Sabine Consol., Inc. v. State, 816 S.W.2d 784 (Tex. App.—Austin 1991, pet. ref’d) was decided on August 28, 1991. In September 1985, two construction workers employed byContinue reading “This Month in Case Law History: Sabine and Individual Liability for Officers of Corporations”