Court Rules
Judge

Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Denton County District Courts

Limits & Logistics

Document Limits

Trial Summary
1 pgs

Courtesy Copies

Exhibit List

Exhibit List, Premarked Exhibits

  • When Hearing Called Unless Scheduling Order States Otherwise

Petition Application, Supporting Affidavit, Certificate Of Ex Parte Relief, Proposed Order

  • Email

Witness List

Communication

Email

Clerk

ali.hayslip@dentoncounty.gov
Scheduling
Email

Chambers

Scheduling
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingExhibitsProposed OrdersJuryConferencesEvidence/WitnessesTRO/InjunctionSettlement

Page & Word Limits2 rules

Page Limits

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

The trial summary should be limited to one page if possible.

This summary is intended to be an aid for the Judge and staff and should be limited to one page if possible.

Trial Summary

1 pages

Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Page Limits

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?

This summary is intended to be an aid for the Judge and staff and should be limited to one page if possible.

Summary: The trial summary should be limited to one page if possible.

Trial Summary

1 pages

Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

Document Format Requirements14 rules

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Premarked exhibits must be submitted to the court reporter on USB and by email under the county evidence order, with hard copies provided for the judge and witness stand.

All pre-marked for identification exhibits must be submitted to the Court Reporter on a USB drive AND by email. THE EXHIBITS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DENTON COUNTY STANDING ORDER REGARDING EVIDENCE. ADDITIONALLY, hard copies must be provided for the Judge and the witness stand.

Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
FormattingCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The language of the court-created CPS Scheduling Order is fixed and cannot be edited.

5. The Court has created a CPS Scheduling Order. It is required for ALL CPS cases. It will be entered at the Status hearing. No other language is permitted to be edited.

Denton:f1a8f33ccaacfae204b24c41 · May 2022 · p. 1
|Sec442ND DISTRICT COURT CPS REQUIREMENTS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Premarked exhibits must be submitted to the court reporter by both USB drive and email, comply with the county evidence standing order, and include hard copies for the judge and witness stand.

c. All pre-marked for identification exhibits must be submitted to the Court Reporter on a USB drive AND by email. THE EXHIBITS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DENTON COUNTY STANDING ORDER REGARDING EVIDENCE. ADDITIONALLY, hard copies must be provided for the Judge and the witness stand.

Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A proposed order for each motion in limine or other pretrial motion must be submitted in Word using the form on the court's website.

c. The proposed Order on Motion in Limine or other proposed orders on pre- trial motions. The proposed Order on Motion in Limine, etc. must be submitted in Word format in exactly the same form as located on the Court’s Website at 442nd District Court.

Required Format

DOCX

Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Proposed jury instructions must be submitted in Word in the form presented to the jury, cite authority at the end of each question or instruction, and omit judicial signature blocks.

b. The proposed jury instructions and issues. The jury charge must be submitted in Word format in exactly the same form as it would be presented to the jury. However, please cite your authority or source at the end of each question or instruction. Please do not include signature blocks for the Judge to grant, deny or modify any requested definition, instruction or question.

Required Format

DOCX

Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
FormattingCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Premarked exhibits must be submitted to the court reporter on a USB drive and by email under the Denton County evidence standing order, with hard copies also provided to the judge and witness stand.

All pre-marked for identification exhibits must be submitted to the Court Reporter on a USB drive AND by email. THE EXHIBITS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DENTON COUNTY STANDING ORDER REGARDING EVIDENCE. ADDITIONALLY, hard copies must be provided for the Judge and the witness stand.

Denton:d3d8e1072d778610b36dc83e · p. 2
|SecPRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS
FormattingCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The proposed jury charge must be submitted in Word format in the form presented to the jury, cite authority for each question or instruction, and omit judicial signature blocks.

The jury charge must be submitted in Word format in exactly the same form as it would be presented to the jury. However, please cite your authority or source at the end of each question or instruction. Please do not include signature blocks for the Judge to grant, deny or modify any requested definition, instruction or question.

Denton:d3d8e1072d778610b36dc83e · p. 2
|SecPRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

The court reporter's USB and the judge's and witness stand's exhibit binders may be brought to the pretrial conference if all counsel have received copies.

*Exception: The USB for the Court Reporter and Exhibit Binders for the Judge and Witness Stand may be brought to the pre-trial conference as long as all counsel have received a copy.

Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Formatting

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

Please use a blank line for the date. Reminder that ‘order’ and ‘shall’ language require a judge’s signature.

Summary: Leave the date line blank, and obtain a judge’s signature for documents using “order” or “shall” language.

Denton:0cd1175635868dda783795f8 · p. 4
|SecFiling Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders
Formatting

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

The jury charge must be submitted in Word format in exactly the same form as it would be presented to the jury.

Summary: The proposed jury charge must be submitted in Word format in the same form as it would be presented to the jury.

Required Format

DOCX

Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Formatting

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

The proposed Order on Motion in Limine, etc. must be submitted in Word format in exactly the same form as located on the Court’s Website at 442nd District Court.

Summary: A proposed order on a motion in limine or another pretrial motion must be submitted in Word format using the form on the court's website.

Required Format

DOCX

Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
FormattingCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

The Court further requires that the selfie is date and time stamped using the DateStamper app for iPhones and the PhotoStamp Camera Free app for Androids.

Summary: Each attorney ad litem selfie must be date-and-time stamped using DateStamper on iPhones or PhotoStamp Camera Free on Android devices.

Denton:f1a8f33ccaacfae204b24c41 · May 2022 · p. 1
|Sec442nd District Court Attorney Ad Litem Selfie Requirement
Formatting

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

NOTE that proper Courtroom attire is REQUIRED.

Summary: Proper courtroom attire is required for an in-person divorce prove-up appearance.

Denton:362b56754fb4ea5d59df075f · p. 2
|SecInstructions for finalizing a divorce-
FormattingCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

The proposed Order on Motion in Limine, etc. must be submitted in Word format in exactly the same form as located on the Court’s Website at 442nd District Court.

Summary: A proposed order for a motion in limine or another pretrial motion must be submitted in Word format matching the court website form.

Denton:d3d8e1072d778610b36dc83e · p. 2
|SecPRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS

Document Filing Requirements50 rules

Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Pleadings must use each child’s full name in both the case style and body, not the child’s initials.

Do not use children’s initials in pleadings. Use children’s full names in the style of the case and in the body of the pleadings. The Family Code requires that children’s names be used.

Document Type

Pleading

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:0cd1175635868dda783795f8 · p. 4
|SecFiling Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Pleadings must use each party’s full name in both the case style and body, not the party’s initials.

Do not use parties’ initials in pleadings. Use each party’s full name in the style of the case and in the body of the pleadings. The Family Code requires that parties’ names be used.

Document Type

Pleading

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:0cd1175635868dda783795f8 · p. 4
|SecFiling Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A motion must be filed before hearing dates can be obtained.

(note, you must have a motion in order to obtain hearing dates).

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

After a final trial is set, file a notice of hearing or order to appear with the date and time completed and the court’s applicable Scheduling Order with every deadline entered as an actual date; no other Scheduling Order is accepted.

For a Final Trial: your notice of hearing or order to appear with the date and time filled in AND the court’s applicable Scheduling Order located on the Court’s website with all deadlines filled in with actual dates (do not write per TRCP). No other Scheduling Order will be accepted.

Document Type

Scheduling Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

After a jury trial is set, use the court’s applicable Scheduling Order from the court’s website with all deadlines entered as actual dates; no other Scheduling Order is accepted.

For a Jury Trial: the court’s applicable Scheduling Order located on the Court’s website with all deadlines filled in with actual dates (do not write per TRCP). No other Scheduling Order will be accepted

Document Type

Scheduling Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Submit pre-marked identification exhibits to the Court Reporter on a USB drive, serve all other parties under the Denton County Local Rules, and provide hard copies for the Judge and witness stand.

All pre-marked for identification exhibits must be submitted to the Court Reporter on a USB drive (and served upon all other parties in accordance with the Denton County Local Rules) AND hard copies must be provided for the Judge and the witness stand.

Document Type

Premarked Exhibits

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:0cd1175635868dda783795f8 · p. 6
|SecExhibits and Exhibit Lists
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Submit the completed Exhibit List from the court’s website for every hearing.

The completed Exhibit List located on the Court’s website must be submitted for each and every hearing.

Document Type

Exhibit List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:0cd1175635868dda783795f8 · p. 6
|SecExhibits and Exhibit Lists
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Submit the completed Witness List from the court’s website for every hearing.

The completed Witness List located on the Court’s website must be submitted for each and every hearing.

Document Type

Witness List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The parties must exchange inventories and appraisements before the final hearing in original divorce proceedings and provide copies to the judge at the final hearing.

The Court requires Inventories and Appraisements be exchanged between the parties prior to final hearings in original divorce proceedings. In addition, she requires copies be provided to her at the time of the final hearing.

Document Type

Inventories And Appraisements

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

After mediation is completed, a letter notifying the court of whether the case was settled, partially settled, or at impasse must be filed.

Once mediation has been completed, please file a letter notifying the Court of the outcome (settled, partially settled, impasse).

Document Type

Letter

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A Summary of Requested Relief is required, with additional copies provided to opposing counsel or the self-represented litigant and the Court Reporter at the hearing or final trial.

The Court requires a Summary of Requested Relief be provided and additional copies given to opposing counsel or self-represented litigant and the Court Reporter at the time of the hearing or final trial.

Document Type

Summary Of Requested Relief

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:0cd1175635868dda783795f8 · p. 7
|SecSummary of Requested Relief
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The Court Administrator's specific instructions must be attached to the notice of hearing, and the notice will be rejected if they are omitted.

The Court Administrator will respond with confirmation of the setting and the Court’s instructions which are required to be attached to the notice of hearing. If the specific instructions are not attached to the notice, the notice will be rejected.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:0cd1175635868dda783795f8 · p. 7
|SecMotions for Summary Judgment
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Parties must submit proposed jury instructions and issues in the form presented to the jury, cite authority for each question or instruction, omit judicial signature blocks, and follow the current rules and pattern charges.

The proposed jury instructions and issues. The jury charge must be submitted in Word format in exactly the same form as it would be presented to the jury. However, please cite your authority or source at the end of each question or instruction. Please do not include signature blocks for the Judge to grant, deny or modify any requested definition, instruction or question. The proposed charge should follow the current edition of the TEXAS RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE and the applicable TEXAS PATTERN JURY CHARGES.

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Filing Requirements

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The quote identifies all documentary evidence and exhibits and refers users to the Exhibit List on the Court’s website at 442nd District Court.

All documentary evidence and exhibits. The Exhibit List located on the Court’s website at 442nd District Court.

Document Type

Exhibit List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Affidavits, deposition excerpts, and all supporting evidence must be filed with the expert challenge.

Affidavits, deposition excerpts and all evidence for the prima facie challenge to an expert or expert testimony must be filed with the challenge.

Document Type

Expert Witness Challenge

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 3
|SecExpert Witness Challenges
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A court-created CPS Scheduling Order is mandatory in every CPS case, will be entered at the status hearing, and may not be edited.

5. The Court has created a CPS Scheduling Order. It is required for ALL CPS cases. It will be entered at the Status hearing. No other language is permitted to be edited.

Document Type

Cps Scheduling Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:f1a8f33ccaacfae204b24c41 · May 2022 · p. 1
|Sec442ND DISTRICT COURT CPS REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Attorney ad litem selfies must be taken with the child or children during each visit.

In an effort to ensure that the statutes governing Attorney Ad Litem Appointments are being followed, the 442nd District Court requires that selfies are taken with the child(ren) at each visit.

Document Type

Attorney Ad Litem Selfie

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:f1a8f33ccaacfae204b24c41 · May 2022 · p. 1
|Sec442nd District Court Attorney Ad Litem Selfie Requirement
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

ADAs must provide all counsel with Proposed Orders for statutory hearings, with the next hearing date filled in, no later than the Monday before the hearing.

1. ADAs shall provide the Proposed Orders for statutory hearings to ALL Counsel no later than the Monday before the hearing with the date of the next hearing filled in.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Denton:f1a8f33ccaacfae204b24c41 · May 2022 · p. 1
|Sec442ND DISTRICT COURT CPS REQUIREMENTS
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Beginning on the 61st day after the original divorce petition is filed, the Respondent’s waiver or answer, prove-up affidavit, and completed agreed final decree must be filed.

On the 61st day after filing the original petition for divorce or any time thereafter, please file the waiver or answer for the Respondent, the prove up affidavit, and the completed agreed final decree of divorce.

Document Type

Respondent Waiver Or Answer Prove Up Affidavit And Agreed Final Decree

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:362b56754fb4ea5d59df075f · p. 1
|SecInstructions for finalizing a divorce-
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

For a child’s name change, both parents must sign the verified petition and order or decree, and a signed consent of the child is required when the child is over 10.

Children: File the completed verified Petition signed by BOTH parents. File the signed Consent of the Child if the child is over the age of 10 years old. File a separate completed Order/Decree signed by BOTH parents.

Document Type

Child Name Change Petition Consent And Order Decree

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:362b56754fb4ea5d59df075f · p. 2
|SecInstructions for finalizing a name change-
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

For an adult name change, the completed verified petition with an attached fingerprint card must be filed with the District Clerk, followed by a separate completed order or decree.

Adult: File the completed verified Petition with attached fingerprint card with the District Clerk and file a separate completed Order/Decree.

Document Type

Adult Name Change Petition And Order Decree

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:362b56754fb4ea5d59df075f · p. 2
|SecInstructions for finalizing a name change-
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A litigant in a default divorce must appear for the prove-up, either on the designated Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. or at a scheduled setting obtained by email.

In default divorces, appearance for a prove up is required. You may appear on the designated Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. in the courtroom or you may email the Court Administrator to receive a scheduled setting for a default prove up.

Document Type

Default Prove Up Appearance

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:362b56754fb4ea5d59df075f · p. 2
|SecInstructions for finalizing a divorce-
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

For an agreed divorce, the Respondent’s Answer or Waiver of Service must be on file if citation and the petition are not being served legally.

In agreed divorces, there must be an Answer or Waiver of Service on file for the Respondent if you will not be legally serving them with citation and the petition.

Document Type

Respondent Answer Or Waiver Of Service

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:362b56754fb4ea5d59df075f · p. 2
|SecInstructions for finalizing a divorce-
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The required concise trial summary must identify each cause of action or defense, its elements, and, when appropriate, the legal standard for measuring damages.

a. A concise trial summary as follows: State each separate cause of action and/or defense; each element of each cause of action and/or defense; if appropriate, a precise legal standard for measure of damages.

Document Type

Trial Summary

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The proposed jury charge must follow the current Texas Rules of Civil Procedure and applicable Texas Pattern Jury Charges.

The proposed charge should follow the current edition of the TEXAS RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE and the applicable TEXAS PATTERN JURY CHARGES.

Document Type

Proposed Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Each party must present the proposed parenting plan to the judge as an exhibit at trial.

Each party shall present their proposed parenting plan to the Judge as an exhibit at trial.

Document Type

Proposed Parenting Plan

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 3
|Sec6. PROPOSED PARENTING PLAN
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Each party's sworn inventory and proposed property division must be presented to the judge as a trial exhibit, with the date at least 30 days before mediation.

Each party shall present their sworn inventory and proposed property division to the Judge as an exhibit at trial. This date must be at least 30 days prior to mediation.

Document Type

Sworn Inventory

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 3
|Sec5. SWORN INVENTORY AND PROPOSED PROPERTY DIVISION
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

In the specified family cases, all parties must attend an approved parent education and family stabilization course and file proof of attendance within 30 days after the order.

If this is a contested divorce with children, suit affecting the parent child relationship or suit to modify the parent child relationship, all parties shall attend an approved parent education and family stabilization course pursuant to the Denton County Standing Orders and file proof of attendance within 30 days from the date of this order.

Document Type

Proof Of Attendance

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 3
|Sec10. PARENT EDUCATION AND FAMILY STABILIZATION
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Attorneys must execute and file a DCAP Order for Mediation contemporaneously with the scheduling order.

IT IS ORDERED that a DCAP Order for Mediation shall be timely executed and filed by the attorneys contemporaneously with this scheduling order.

Document Type

Order For Mediation

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:d3d8e1072d778610b36dc83e · p. 3
|SecOrder to Mediate and Order to Appear in Person at Mediation
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The filer must certify the applicable ex parte relief circumstances, including opposition-counsel contact attempts and the resulting notice or inability to confer when applicable.

“I, the undersigned attorney or party, hereby certify and represent to the Court that: _______To the best of my knowledge, no attorney is representing the opposing party in this matter at this time and no attorney has contacted me regarding the representation of the opposing party prior to filing this request for ex parte relief; OR, ______Prior to presenting this request for ex parte relief to the Court for approval, I contacted all attorneys of record and/or all attorneys that have contacted me as to their representation of the opposing party, transmitted a copy of the pleadings and proposed order of the requested ex parte relief, and notified them that I would be presenting this requested ex parte relief to the Court BY SUBMISSION and upon the Court's availability, request that the Court provide a date and time certain for appearance on same; AND, ____ After conferring with no attorney of record wishes to be heard prior to the presentment of this request for ex parte relief; or, ____ After conferring with , no agreement could be reached as to this request for ex parte relief, and such counsel or party stated that they wished to be heard/present when I SUBMITTED the ex parte relief to the 442nd Judicial District Court and/or they wished to be heard on this matter prior to the Court signing any order for ex parte relief; Such counsel or party is therefore included on the email to the Court Administrator; or, ____ I was unable to confer with opposing counsel, and left a message with _________, an individual in the office of opposing counsel, on (date) _____________ at (time) _________ and informed him or her that I would SUBMIT the request for ex parte relief to the 442nd Judicial District Court and they should RESPOND by that time if they wished to be heard on this matter prior to the Court signing any order for ex parte relief. Such counsel or party is therefore included on the email to the Court Administrator. Describe contact with individual in law office including phone and email contact: ___________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________; or, ____ After diligent attempts, I was unable to confer with opposing counsel and was further unable to leave a message with any individual in the office of opposing counsel regarding the presentment of this request for ex parte relief. Such counsel or party is therefore included on the email to the Court Administrator. Describe efforts to contact: ___________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

Document Type

Certificate For Ex Parte Relief

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:161cd7df823e4c3b01e904e1 · p. 1
|SecCertificate for Ex Parte Relief
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

If the litigant cannot determine how to e-file or prepare the prove-up affidavit, the litigant may appear in person on Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. with the completed agreed final decree.

Only if you are unable to determine how to e-file or where to find or how to prepare a prove up affidavit may you appear with your completed agreed final decree of divorce on Tuesdays at 8:30 a.m. in the courtroom to prove up the divorce in person in front of the Judge.

Document Type

Agreed Final Decree

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:362b56754fb4ea5d59df075f · p. 1
|SecInstructions for finalizing a divorce-
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

The exhibit list and pre-marked exhibits must be submitted in accordance with the identified standing order, scheduling order, and/or practice tips.

Please submit the list and the pre-marked exhibits according to the Denton County Standing Order Re Evidence, the Court's Scheduling Order and/or the 442nd Court's Practice Tips.

Document Type

Exhibit List

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Denton:8a98bd5ee545d82bd6247028 · p. 1
|SecExhibit List for Trial or Hearing
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

A Summary of Requested Relief for Final Trial must be included.

*Do not forget your Summary of Requested Relief for Final Trial*

Document Type

Summary Of Requested Relief For Final Trial

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 1
|SecCOURT / JURY (STRIKE ONE) TRIAL IS SET FOR THIS DATE.
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

If a notice will require a signature, please use Judge/Court Administrator in the signature block.

Summary: Any notice requiring a signature must identify Judge/Court Administrator in its signature block.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:0cd1175635868dda783795f8 · p. 4
|SecFiling Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

For a Hearing: your notice of hearing or order to appear with the date and time filled in.

Summary: After the Court Administrator confirms a hearing date, electronically file a notice of hearing or order to appear with the date and time completed.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

If they are not, the proposed order will be rejected.

Summary: A proposed order for a DCAP mediation must include the completed Exhibit A for each party or it will be rejected.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

Accepted by submission only. Please submit proposed order and statement of evidence.

Summary: Uncontested tax suits are accepted only by submission, and the submission must include a proposed order and a statement of evidence.

Document Type

Tax Suit Submission

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

A completed Witness List. The completed Witness List located on the Court’s website at 442nd District Court.

Summary: Each party must provide the completed Witness List from the court's website.

Document Type

Witness List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 1
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

A concise trial summary as follows: State each separate cause of action and/or defense; each element of each cause of action and/or defense; if appropriate, a precise legal standard for measure of damages. Please be as brief and concise as possible. This summary is intended to be an aid for the Judge and staff and should be limited to one page if possible. No formal headings or styles are required. Reference to case law and statute may be included.

Summary: Each party must provide a concise trial summary identifying each cause of action or defense, its elements, and an applicable damages standard.

Document Type

Trial Summary

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Filing Requirements

We could not find this wording in the court's document. Open the source before relying on it.Mandatory?

The proposed Order on Motion in Limine or other proposed orders on pre-trial motions.

Machine summary and details

Summary: Each party must provide the proposed order on a motion in limine or another pretrial motion.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Denton:7b8702331de0ee7e0f1809af · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

b. All documentary evidence and exhibits. The Exhibit List located on the Court’s website at 442nd District Court.

Summary: All documentary evidence and exhibits, together with the court's Exhibit List, must be submitted before the pretrial conference.

Document Type

Exhibit List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

Note that this is a separate document from the motion, which should already be on file.

Summary: The proposed pretrial order must be submitted as a separate document from the motion already on file.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

a. A completed Witness List. The completed Witness List located on the Court’s website at 442nd District Court.

Summary: A completed Witness List obtained from the court's website must be submitted before the pretrial conference.

Document Type

Witness List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:527e5f31bbdb1c42b24ead36 · p. 2
|SecPRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

The proposed Order on Motion in Limine or other proposed orders on pre-trial motions. The proposed Order on Motion in Limine, etc. must be submitted in Word format in exactly the same form as located on the Court’s Website at 442nd District Court. Note that this is a separate document from the motion, which should already be on file.

Summary: Each party must provide a separate proposed order for each pretrial motion in Word format using the form posted on the court’s website.

Document Type

Pretrial Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Denton:d3d8e1072d778610b36dc83e · p. 2
|SecPRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

All documentary evidence and exhibits. The Exhibit List located on the Court’s website at 442nd District Court.

Summary: Each party must provide all documentary evidence and exhibits, together with the court’s exhibit list, for the pretrial conference.

Document Type

Pretrial Exhibits

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Denton:d3d8e1072d778610b36dc83e · p. 2
|SecPRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

A completed Witness List.

Summary: Each party must provide a completed witness list for the pretrial conference.

Document Type

Witness List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:d3d8e1072d778610b36dc83e · p. 2
|SecPRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

The proposed jury instructions and issues.

Summary: Each party must provide proposed jury instructions and issues for the pretrial conference.

Document Type

Proposed Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:d3d8e1072d778610b36dc83e · p. 2
|SecPRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

SIGNED on __________________, 202__. __________________________________________ Attorney for (strike one) Petitioner/Respondent

Summary: The certificate must be dated and signed by the attorney for the petitioner or respondent, as applicable.

Document Type

Certificate For Ex Parte Relief

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:161cd7df823e4c3b01e904e1 · p. 1
|SecCertificate for Ex Parte Relief
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?

Please include a blank for the reset date.

Summary: The proposed Agreed Order Granting Motion for Continuance must include a blank for the reset date.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Note?

Please conduct your own legal research on how to prepare a prove up affidavit and final decree of divorce.

Summary: A self-represented litigant must independently research how to prepare the prove-up affidavit and final divorce decree.

Document Type

Prove Up Affidavit And Final Decree

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Denton:362b56754fb4ea5d59df075f · p. 1
|SecInstructions for finalizing a divorce-

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

For an agreed continuance in a case younger than 18 months, a proposed Agreed Order Granting Motion for Continuance must be e-filed as a separate lead document.

If a Motion for Continuance is agreed for a case younger than 18 months, please also e-file a proposed Agreed Order Granting Motion for Continuance as its own separate lead document.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Continuances

After setting a hearing, counsel must electronically file the notice of hearing and proposed order as separate lead documents.

Once you follow the Court’s requirement to set a hearing, please make sure that you e-file notices of hearing and proposed orders as their own separate lead documents.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | Filing Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders

The required Scheduling Order must be completed, signed, and electronically filed after the jury trial has been set with the Court Administrator.

The Court’s required Scheduling Order must be completed, signed and e-filed once the jury trial has been set with the Court Administrator.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 5

The petition or application, supporting affidavit, certificate of ex parte relief, and proposed order must be e-filed, and file-marked copies of the first three documents must be received.

please make sure that the documents: 1. petition/application, 2. supporting affidavit, 3. certificate of ex parte relief, and 4. proposed order have been e-filed AND that you have received the file-marked-documents back for items 1-3 back.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 1 | requirements, regarding an emergency TRO, TEXPO or Writ

The proposed order must be e-filed as its own separate lead document so that it enters the court’s e-filing queue without delay.

Take extra care that the proposed order has been e-filed as its own separate lead document so that it comes to the Court’s e-filing queue and we do not have to wait on it.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 1 | requirements, regarding an emergency TRO, TEXPO or Writ

All prove-up documents must be e-filed as separate lead documents.

Please be sure to e-file all documents as their own separate lead documents.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | Prove-Ups

An attorney ad litem must email their child selfie to the court administrator, copying all counsel, the caseworker, and CASA, by 3 p.m. on the day before the hearing.

Attorney Ad Litem shall email to the court admin with ALL counsel, caseworker and CASA included on the email their selfie with the child according to the Court’s selfie requirement no later than 3 p.m. the day prior to the hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases

Page 1 | For Attorney Ad Litems on ALL statutory hearings

The divorce finalization documents may be filed electronically or in person with the District Clerk.

If you e-file the documents, please make sure they are e-filed as their own separate lead documents. You are also welcome to file them in person with the District Clerk.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Instructions for finalizing a divorce-

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

The steps and deadlines stated in the Notice of Dismissal Setting must be followed for the case to avoid dismissal at the hearing.

The Notice of Dismissal Setting contains specific steps, and deadlines for those steps, that must be taken in order for the case not to be dismissed at the time of the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | Court’s Dismissal Hearing

A Scheduling Order filed electronically before the case is set for trial will be rejected.

If the scheduling order is e-filed before the case has been set for trial with the Court Administrator, the scheduling order will be rejected.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 5

All pretrial motions must be filed ten days before the formal pretrial conference and will be heard at that conference.

All Pre-Trial motions (Motions in Limine, etc.) shall be filed 10 days before the formal pretrial conference and will be heard at the formal pretrial conference.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 1 | PRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

The attorney or party filing an expert challenge must obtain a timely court-coordinator setting at least 60 days before trial.

and heard prior to this date. The attorney or party filing the challenge is obligated to obtain a timely setting through the court coordinator pursuant to the local rules. This date must be at least 60 days prior to the trial date.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | Expert Witness Challenges

The attorney ad litem’s selfie email is due no later than 3 p.m. on the day before the hearing.

Attorney Ad Litem shall email to the court admin with ALL counsel, caseworker and CASA included on the email their selfie with the child according to the Court’s selfie requirement no later than 3 p.m. the day prior to the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 1 | For Attorney Ad Litems on ALL statutory hearings

The divorce finalization documents may be filed beginning 61 days after filing the original petition.

On the 61st day after filing the original petition for divorce or any time thereafter, please file the waiver or answer for the Respondent, the prove up affidavit, and the completed agreed final decree of divorce.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 1 | Instructions for finalizing a divorce-

All pretrial motions must be filed ten days before the formal pretrial conference and will be heard at that conference.

All Pre-Trial motions (Motions in Limine, etc.) shall be filed 10 days before the formal pretrial conference and will be heard at the formal pretrial conference.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 1 | PRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

All pretrial motions must be filed 10 days before the formal pretrial conference and will be heard at that conference.

All Pre-Trial motions (Motions in Limine, etc.) shall be filed 10 days before the formal pretrial conference and will be heard at the formal pretrial conference.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 2 | PRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS

An email about a motion should be sent only after the file-marked motion is returned from the District Clerk.

Please note that only once the file-marked motion is received back from the District Clerks should an email be sent.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Communication with Court Administrator/Judge

An agreed order may be removed from the Court’s Entry Docket only after it is received in the e-file queue.

Only once the agreed order is received in the e-file queue, may it be removed from the Court’s Entry Docket.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | Court’s Entry Docket

The Court Administrator cannot provide hearing dates until the pleading appears on the Court’s system.

The Court Administrator is unable to provide dates until a pleading appears on the Court’s system.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Filing Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders

Motions for summary judgment must be both filed and heard at least 30 days before the final trial.

Please note that Motions for Summary Judgment must be filed AND heard 30 days prior to final trial.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | Motions for Summary Judgment

The witness list, exhibit list, documentary evidence, and premarked exhibits must be provided to the court reporter and served on all other parties by 3 p.m. on the day before the pretrial conference.

Each party is directed to produce the following to the Court Reporter Deana Scobee at Deana.Scobee@dentoncounty.gov (and served upon all other parties) no later than 3 p.m. on the day before the Pre-Trial Conference: a. A completed Witness List. The completed Witness List located on the Court’s website at 442nd District Court. Civil Scheduling Order and Discovery Control Plan Page 1 ===== PAGE 2 ===== b. All documentary evidence and exhibits. The Exhibit List located on the Court’s website at 442nd District Court. c. All pre-marked for identification exhibits must be submitted to the Court Reporter on a USB drive AND by email. THE EXHIBITS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DENTON COUNTY STANDING ORDER REGARDING EVIDENCE. ADDITIONALLY, hard copies must be provided for the Judge and the witness stand. Please be prepared to consider stipulations as to the authenticity and admissibility of exhibits with the judge. *Exception: The USB for the Court Reporter and Exhibit Binders for the Judge and Witness Stand may be brought to the pre-trial conference as long as all counsel have received a copy.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | PRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

The trial summary, proposed jury instructions and issues, and proposed pretrial orders must be provided to the court administrator and served on all other parties by 3 p.m. on the day before the pretrial conference.

Each party is directed to produce the following to the Court Administrator Ali Hayslip at Ali.Hayslip@dentoncounty.gov (and served upon all other parties) no later than 3 p.m. on the day before the Pre-Trial Conference:

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | PRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

If the case is not reached for trial on its scheduled date, the existing deadlines are not extended without court approval and a new scheduling order.

In that event, these deadlines will NOT be extended without approval by the Court and entry of a new scheduling order.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | Discovery Deadline and Limitations

All pleading amendments and supplements must be filed by the scheduling-order deadline unless modified by Rule 11 agreement.

All amendments and supplements to pleadings must be filed by this date unless modified by Rule 11 agreement.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | Amending Pleadings

All discovery must be completed by the scheduling-order deadline unless modified by Rule 11 agreement.

All discovery must be completed by this date unless modified by Rule 11 agreement.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | Discovery Deadline and Limitations

The courtesy email must be sent after the proposed order is received in the court’s queue.

That is when you will need to send your courtesy email.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases

Page 1 | requirements, regarding an emergency TRO, TEXPO or Writ

Service and Proof of Service Rules

Pre-marked identification exhibits must be served on all other parties in accordance with the Denton County Local Rules.

All pre-marked for identification exhibits must be submitted to the Court Reporter on a USB drive (and served upon all other parties in accordance with the Denton County Local Rules) AND hard copies must be provided for the Judge and the witness stand.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 6 | Exhibits and Exhibit Lists

Discovery must be served sufficiently early to permit the other party to serve a timely response by the discovery deadline.

Parties must serve discovery in sufficient time to allow for a timely response to be served by the other party under the TEXAS RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE no later than this deadline.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | Discovery Deadline and Limitations

In a default or contested divorce without an Answer or Waiver, the other party must be legally served under the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.

In default divorces or contested divorces without an Answer/Waiver, the other party must be legally served according to the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Instructions for finalizing a divorce-

A final trial cannot be set until the Respondent has been legally served or has filed an Answer or Waiver of Service and the return of service or Answer/Waiver appears in the case file.

Please note that a Final Trial CANNOT be set until the Respondent has been legally served (or has filed an Answer/Waiver of Service) AND that return of service or Answer/Waiver has appeared in the case file.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Instructions for finalizing a divorce-

Each party must serve the other party with a sworn inventory describing and valuing all property and debts and proposing their division.

In contested divorce cases, each party shall serve the other party with a sworn inventory setting forth a description and value of all property (real or personal, community and separate) owned or claimed by the parties, a list of all debts (stating the creditor and amount) owed by the parties, and a proposed division of all property and debts.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | 5. SWORN INVENTORY AND PROPOSED PROPERTY DIVISION

In contested conservatorship cases, each party must serve the other party with a proposed parenting plan containing the required Family Code §153.601(4) provisions.

In contested conservatorship cases, each party shall serve the other party with a proposed parenting plan that includes the provisions in Family Code §153.601(4).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | 6. PROPOSED PARENTING PLAN

Witness lists and pretrial exhibits must be provided to the court reporter and served on all other parties by 3 p.m. on the day before the pretrial conference.

Each party is directed to produce the following to the Court Reporter Deana Scobee at Deana.Scobee@dentoncounty.gov (and served upon all other parties) no later than 3 p.m. on the day before the Pre-Trial Conference:

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 2 | PRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS

If both parents do not agree to a child’s name change, citation service and a scheduled hearing may be required.

Please be advised that if both parents do not agree to the name change, service of citation and a scheduled hearing may be required.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Instructions for finalizing a name change-

Emails to the Court Administrator must copy all opposing counsel or self-represented litigants who have appeared or whom a certificate indicates should receive the email.

When sending an email, please be sure to carbon copy or CC all opposing counsel or self-represented litigants on the email if they have made an appearance in the case or a certificate otherwise warrants it.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Communication with Court Administrator/Judge

Each party must provide the listed witness and exhibit materials to the court reporter and serve them on all other parties by 3 p.m. on the day before the pretrial conference.

Each party is directed to produce the following to the Court Reporter Deana Scobee at Deana.Scobee@dentoncounty.gov (and served upon all other parties) no later than 3 p.m. on the day before the Pre-Trial Conference:

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | PRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

Each party must provide and serve the listed trial summary, proposed jury instructions, and proposed pretrial orders by 3 p.m. on the day before the pretrial conference.

Each party is directed to produce the following to the Court Administrator Ali Hayslip at Ali.Hayslip@dentoncounty.gov (and served upon all other parties) no later than 3 p.m. on the day before the Pre-Trial Conference:

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | PRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

Proposed jury instructions and proposed pretrial orders must be provided to the court administrator and served on all other parties by 3 p.m. on the day before the pretrial conference.

Each party is directed to produce the following to the Court Administrator Ali Hayslip at Ali.Hayslip@dentoncounty.gov (and served upon all other parties) no later than 3 p.m. on the day before the Pre-Trial Conference:

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases

Page 2 | PRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS

The Court may set a dismissal docket, mails the dismissal-setting notice by first-class mail to attorneys of record and self-represented litigants, and also files the notice in the case file.

The Court sets dismissal dockets at its discretion. Notices of Dismissal Setting are mailed by first class mail to the addresses for the attorneys of record and/or self-represented litigants on file. The Notice is also filed in the case file.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | Court’s Dismissal Hearing

The signing attorneys or parties must provide a copy of the scheduling order to all joined parties and attorneys who later enter an appearance.

The attorneys or parties signing below are responsible for providing a copy of this Order to all parties joined and/or attorneys that enter appearance after this date.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | 10. PARENT EDUCATION AND FAMILY STABILIZATION

Courtesy Copy Requirements

A courtesy copy by email must be provided for the petition or application, supporting affidavit, certificate of ex parte relief, and proposed order.

please provide a courtesy copy by email of: 1. the petition/application, 2. supporting affidavit, 3. certificate of ex parte relief, and 4. proposed order;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 1 | requirements, regarding an emergency TRO, TEXPO or Writ

Provide copies of the Exhibit List to the opposing counsel or self-represented litigant, the Court Reporter, and the Judge.

Copies for the opposing counsel or self-represented litigant, the Court Reporter and the Judge must be provided.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 6 | Exhibits and Exhibit Lists

Do not provide court copies of the exhibit materials until the hearing is called unless the Scheduling Order states otherwise.

Please note that the copies for the Court should not be provided until the time the hearing is called unless noted otherwise in the scheduling order.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 6 | Exhibits and Exhibit Lists

The opposing party or opposing counsel should be copied on the courtesy email only if they have appeared in the case or the certificate of ex parte relief directs inclusion.

copy in/include/Cc the opposing party or opposing counsel only if they have made an appearance in the case whether through an attorney, by self-representation, or your certificate of ex parte relief otherwise dictates that you should include them on the email.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases

Page 1 | requirements, regarding an emergency TRO, TEXPO or Writ

Providing a courtesy copy of the Witness List for the Bailiff is appreciated.

A courtesy copy for the Bailiff is also appreciated.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 6 | Witness List

Filing Bundling Requirements

The child name-change petition, applicable consent, and order or decree must be fully completed and filed as separate lead documents.

Please make sure the Petition, Consent (if applicable) and Order are fully completed and filed as their own separate lead documents.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Instructions for finalizing a name change-

A notice of hearing or proposed order may not be bundled or contained within a motion.

Note that a notice of hearing or proposed order cannot be contained within a motion.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Filing Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders

Documents in an agreed divorce finalization submitted electronically must be filed as separate lead documents.

If you e-file the documents, please make sure they are e-filed as their own separate lead documents.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Instructions for finalizing a divorce-

The adult name-change petition and order or decree must be fully completed and filed as separate lead documents.

Please make sure the Petition and Order are fully completed and filed as their own separate lead documents.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Instructions for finalizing a name change-

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

The court will not hear motions on the trial date without first obtaining leave of court.

The Court will not hear motions on the day of trial without obtaining prior leave of the Court.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 1 | PRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

The Court will not hear motions on the trial day unless the party first obtains leave of court.

The Court will not hear motions on the day of trial without obtaining prior leave of the Court.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 2 | PRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE REQUIREMENTS

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Every continuance request for a case on a DWOP docket requires a hearing and court approval, regardless of agreement or case age.

Any continuance for a case set off a DWOP docket requires a hearing and court approval regardless of agreement or age of case.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Continuances

An unagreed motion for continuance must be set for a hearing.

If the Motion for Continuance is not agreed, it must be set for hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Continuances

A continuance in a case filed more than 18 months ago requires a hearing and court approval even when the parties agree.

Any continuance (even if agreed) for a case that was filed more than 18 months ago requires a hearing and court approval.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Continuances

Resetting or continuing the initial trial setting does not change existing deadlines unless the court orders a change after a motion showing good cause.

Reset or continuance of the Initial Trial Setting will not alter any deadlines established in this Order or established by the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, unless specifically provided by Order after Motion showing good cause.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 1 | COURT / JURY TRIAL

Resetting or continuing the initial trial date does not change existing deadlines unless the court orders a change after a motion showing good cause.

Reset or continuance of the Initial Trial Setting will not alter any deadlines established in this Order or established by the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, unless specifically provided by Order after Motion showing good cause.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 1 | COURT / JURY (STRIKE ONE) TRIAL IS SET FOR THIS DATE.

An agreed trial date generally will not be continued except in an emergency or for other good cause.

It is the policy of this Court not to grant a continuance of any trial setting when such date has been agreed to by the parties or attorneys, except in an emergency or for other good cause shown.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 1 | CIVIL SCHEDULING ORDER AND DISCOVERY CONTROL PLAN

Typically, only one extension is permitted for completing an order; after that, counsel must attend the Court’s Entry Docket.

Typically, one extension total is permitted. After that, counsel must attend the Court’s Entry Docket to discuss the matter with Judge Haertling.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | Court’s Entry Docket

An agreed trial continuance generally will not be granted except in an emergency or for good cause.

It is the policy of this Court not to grant a continuance of any trial setting when such date has been agreed to by the parties or attorneys, except in an emergency or for other good cause shown.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | COURT / JURY (STRIKE ONE) TRIAL IS SET FOR THIS DATE.

Chambers Communication Rules

Do not communicate directly with Judge Haertling unless the judge or Court Administrator specifically directs communication.

As a reminder, do not attempt to communicate with Judge Haertling unless directed to do so specifically by Judge Haertling or by the Court Administrator at the direction of Judge Haertling.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Communication with Court Administrator/Judge

Do not contact a judge by mail, email, phone, or in person about a pending or potential lawsuit because serious consequences may result.

Do not attempt to contact a judge - by mail, e-mail, phone, or in person - about any pending or potential lawsuit. Doing so may result in serious consequences.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Communication with Court Administrator/Judge

Date-conference requests must allow two business days for availability and use email when provided; after no response, the party may ask the Court Administrator to set the matter and report its conference attempts.

Judge Haertling requires allowing two business days for the other side to check their calendar and respond with availability. If there is no response, you may include back in the Court Administrator, advise of attempts to confer and request the setting. Email is the preferred and if provided, required mode of conferencing on dates with the other side.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | Conference on Dates

Counsel may contact the Court Administrator for available hearing dates only after receiving the file-marked pleading or motion.

Only once you have received the file-marked motion back of a pleading or motion, may you contact the Court Administrator for available hearing dates.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | Filing Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders

A proposed property division must be provided in editable format by email to the Court Administrator, with opposing counsel or the self-represented litigant copied.

If you are asking the Court to divide property, please provide a proposed property division in editable format, such as an Excel spreadsheet, by email to the Court Administrator being sure to carbon copy/cc opposing counsel or the self-represented litigant.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 7 | Property Division

After reviewing the requirements, the email must be sent to the 442nd District Court administrator at ali.hayslip@dentoncounty.gov.

AFTER REVIEWING THESE REQUIREMENTS, SEND YOUR EMAIL TO THE 442ND DISTRICT COURT ADMINISTRATOR AT ALI.HAYSLIP@DENTONCOUNTY.GOV

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 1 | requirements, regarding an emergency TRO, TEXPO or Writ

Available trial dates for the 442nd District Court must be requested from the Court Administrator by email under the stated email requirements.

Please email the Court Administrator for the 442nd District Court according to the email requirements to request available trial dates.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | District Court Administration

Confer with the other side without the Court Administrator to select a mutually agreeable date, then include the administrator in the email after both sides agree.

3. You will be provided with the Court’s available dates and must confer upon the dates with opposing counsel or the self-represented litigant without the Court Administrator included in order to find a mutually agreeable date. 4. Once both sides have agreed on a date, please include the Court Administrator back into the email with opposing counsel and the self-represented litigant and advise her of same.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 5

Requests for copies of filed documents, notice or citation, or service by the constable should be directed to the District Clerk.

Additionally, if you are requesting copies of filed documents, looking to issue notice or citation, or have the constable serve a party, please contact the District Clerk.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | Denton County District Clerk

The Court Administrator may be contacted only by email at Ali.Hayslip@dentoncounty.gov.

Please be advised that the Court Administrator is available BY EMAIL ONLY at Ali.Hayslip@dentoncounty.gov.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Communication with Court Administrator/Judge

A case may not be heard if the required date conference is not completed.

Failure to confer will result in your case not being heard.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Conference on Dates

Because motions are not forwarded to the Court Administrator’s e-file queue, the moving party must notify the Court Administrator when a hearing is needed.

Motions are not forwarded to the Court Administrator’s e-filing queue. It is the responsibility of the moving party to bring the motion to the attention of the Court Administrator if a hearing is needed.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Filing Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders

A contested divorce must request a final-trial date by emailing the 442nd Court Administrator and stating the total court time required.

Please email the 442nd Court Administrator to request a final trial date. Please advise how much total court time in front of the Judge is needed for the Final Trial.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Instructions for finalizing a divorce-

After warning, the Court Administrator will delete and not respond to an email that omits opposing counsel or the self-represented litigant.

If after a warning by the Court Administrator, opposing counsel or the self-represented litigant is not included, the Court Administrator will not be able to respond and the email will be deleted.

We could not find this wording in the court's document. Open the source before relying on it.

Page 2 | Communication with Court Administrator/Judge

The required date conference must include self-represented litigants, who are treated as their own attorneys and receive the same courtesy.

Additionally, conference is required with self-represented litigants. Self-represented litigants are acting as their own attorney and are afforded the same courtesy.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Conference on Dates

Requests for additional time to complete an order must be emailed to the Court Administrator and copied to opposing counsel or any self-represented litigants.

To request additional time to complete an order, please email the Court Administrator at ali.hayslip@dentoncounty.gov with opposing counsel or any self-represented litigants included.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | Court’s Entry Docket

Email the Court Administrator at ali.hayslip@dentoncounty.gov and include any opposing counsel or self-represented litigant who has appeared.

1. Please email the Court Administrator at ali.hayslip@dentoncounty.gov with the opposing counsel or self-represented litigant included if they have made an appearance in the case.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 5

The District Clerk should be contacted for issuance of citation and service of process.

As a reminder, please contact the District Clerk for issuance of citation and service of process.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Instructions for finalizing a divorce-

The email requesting a final-trial date must include both parties.

Please be sure to include both sides on the email to the Court Administrator.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Instructions for finalizing a divorce-

After granting a continuance, the court coordinator emails counsel available reset dates and completes the order before sending it to the District Clerk's office.

If the Court grants the continuance, the court coordinator will email counsel with available reset dates and fill in the order prior to sending down to the District Clerk’s office.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Continuances

Court-wide rules

Applies court-wide

These 101 rules apply across Denton County District Courts. Where this judge's own standing orders above address the same topic, the judge's requirement controls.

Filing Requirements

All 27
  • Applies to
    Certification form
    Must include
    ai disclosure

    Self-represented litigants and attorneys using artificial intelligence must sign and submit the attached certification form before using AI-generated information in a court submission or proceeding.

  • Applies to
    Certification form

    The certification must state that a human verified all generative-AI-created or contributed language, quotations, sources, citations, arguments, and legal analysis through traditional non-AI legal sources before submission.

  • Applies to
    Certification form

    The certification must state that the submitting attorney or self-represented litigant acknowledges responsibility and potential sanctions for noncompliance by the filer, staff, or co-counsel.

Filing Timing

All 21
  • An attorney expecting to be unavailable for a vacation must file a vacation letter with the appropriate clerk no later than 45 days before the vacation and serve all attorneys and parties; a timely letter prevents new settings and Rule 1.13 orders during the vacation but does not affect existing settings.

  • After receiving the hearing date and time, the moving party must immediately file a written notice of hearing with the District Clerk or County Clerk.

  • Deadline
    3 working days

    Except in an emergency, briefs on motions other than summary judgment must be served and filed no later than three working days before the hearing.

Formatting

All 20
  • Format
    PDF

    Text-document files must be searchable PDFs compatible with the latest Adobe Reader and must not be password-protected, encrypted, or subject to rights management.

  • Format
    PDF

    Scanning text documents should be avoided when possible, and documents should be converted directly to PDF when feasible.

  • Format
    PDF

    Exhibits may be scanned if necessary, but scanned materials must be made searchable with optical-character-recognition software.

Service

All 10
  • The attorney of record must serve all attorneys of record and parties with the vacation letter when the attorney will be unavailable for a vacation.

  • The moving party must immediately provide written hearing details to all other parties and immediately file a written notice of hearing with the applicable clerk.

  • Applies to
    Trial setting request

    The party requesting a trial setting must serve the request on every other party.

About Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling

- Judge of the 442nd District Court. - Chambers address: 1450 E McKinney St, 4th Fl, Denton 76209-4524. - Court phone: (940)349-4380. - Court contact email published on the judge's directory row: Ali.Hayslip@dentoncounty.gov - Court coordinator: Ali Hayslip. - Coordinator phone: (940)349-4380. - Coordinator email: Ali.Hayslip@dentoncounty.gov - Court reporter: Deana Scobee. - Court reporter phone: (940)349-4382.

Common questions about Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling?

Courtesy-copy rule applies for exhibit lists. Provide copies of the Exhibit List to the opposing counsel or self-represented litigant, the Court Reporter, and the Judge.

View ruleSource: page 6, section Exhibits and Exhibit Lists

Does Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling's rules set a pre-motion procedure for covered motions. The court will not hear motions on the trial date without first obtaining leave of court.

View ruleSource: page 1, section PRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

What page or word limits apply to trial summary before Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling?

Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling's rule states these limits: 1 pages. The trial summary should be limited to one page if possible.

View ruleSource: page 2, section PRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling?

Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling's formatting rule includes file format docx and the proposed jury charge must appear in exactly the same form as it would be presented to the jury.. The proposed jury charge must be submitted in Word format in the same form as it would be presented to the jury.

View ruleSource: page 2, section PRETRIAL HEARING (JURY TRIALS ONLY)

What must be included with notice of hearing filings before Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. The Court Administrator's specific instructions must be attached to the notice of hearing, and the notice will be rejected if they are omitted.

View ruleSource: page 7, section Motions for Summary Judgment

What must be included with pleading filings before Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Pleadings must use each child’s full name in both the case style and body, not the child’s initials.

View ruleSource: page 4, section Filing Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders

How may parties contact Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling's chambers?

The rule addresses email communications with Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling's clerk. The rule lists email Ali.Hayslip@dentoncounty.gov. The Court Administrator may be contacted only by email at Ali.Hayslip@dentoncounty.gov.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Communication with Court Administrator/Judge

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling?

Advance notice is not fully stated in the structured details. A continuance in a case filed more than 18 months ago requires a hearing and court approval even when the parties agree.

View ruleSource: page 2, section Continuances

Does Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling require motion papers to be bundled?

No. The rule prohibits holding covered papers for bundling. A notice of hearing or proposed order may not be bundled or contained within a motion.

View ruleSource: page 4, section Filing Pleadings, Motions, Notices, Proposed Orders

Is electronic filing required before Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. For an agreed continuance in a case younger than 18 months, a proposed Agreed Order Granting Motion for Continuance must be e-filed as a separate lead document.

View ruleSource: page 2, section Continuances

What filing deadlines does Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling set?

The steps and deadlines stated in the Notice of Dismissal Setting must be followed for the case to avoid dismissal at the hearing.

View ruleSource: page 3, section Court’s Dismissal Hearing

What rule applies to service by email before Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. Details: method: service by email. Emails to the Court Administrator must copy all opposing counsel or self-represented litigants who have appeared or whom a certificate indicates should receive the email.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Communication with Court Administrator/Judge
Complete rules summary for Judge Tiffany Leigh Haertling

The Court Administrator's specific instructions must be attached to the notice of hearing, and the notice will be rejected if they are omitted.

The Court Administrator may be contacted only by email at Ali.Hayslip@dentoncounty.gov.

Emails to the Court Administrator must copy all opposing counsel or self-represented litigants who have appeared or whom a certificate indicates should receive the email.

An email about a motion should be sent only after the file-marked motion is returned from the District Clerk.

After warning, the Court Administrator will delete and not respond to an email that omits opposing counsel or the self-represented litigant.

Do not communicate directly with Judge Haertling unless the judge or Court Administrator specifically directs communication.

Do not contact a judge by mail, email, phone, or in person about a pending or potential lawsuit because serious consequences may result.

Date-conference requests must allow two business days for availability and use email when provided; after no response, the party may ask the Court Administrator to set the matter and report its conference attempts.

A case may not be heard if the required date conference is not completed.

The required date conference must include self-represented litigants, who are treated as their own attorneys and receive the same courtesy.

A continuance in a case filed more than 18 months ago requires a hearing and court approval even when the parties agree.

An unagreed motion for continuance must be set for a hearing.

An agreed order may be removed from the Court’s Entry Docket only after it is received in the e-file queue.

Every continuance request for a case on a DWOP docket requires a hearing and court approval, regardless of agreement or case age.

For an agreed continuance in a case younger than 18 months, a proposed Agreed Order Granting Motion for Continuance must be e-filed as a separate lead document.

The proposed Agreed Order Granting Motion for Continuance must include a blank for the reset date.

After granting a continuance, the court coordinator emails counsel available reset dates and completes the order before sending it to the District Clerk's office.

The Court may set a dismissal docket, mails the dismissal-setting notice by first-class mail to attorneys of record and self-represented litigants, and also files the notice in the case file.

The steps and deadlines stated in the Notice of Dismissal Setting must be followed for the case to avoid dismissal at the hearing.

Requests for additional time to complete an order must be emailed to the Court Administrator and copied to opposing counsel or any self-represented litigants.

Typically, only one extension is permitted for completing an order; after that, counsel must attend the Court’s Entry Docket.

Requests for copies of filed documents, notice or citation, or service by the constable should be directed to the District Clerk.

Available trial dates for the 442nd District Court must be requested from the Court Administrator by email under the stated email requirements.

Counsel may contact the Court Administrator for available hearing dates only after receiving the file-marked pleading or motion.

Pleadings must use each child’s full name in both the case style and body, not the child’s initials.

The Court Administrator cannot provide hearing dates until the pleading appears on the Court’s system.

After setting a hearing, counsel must electronically file the notice of hearing and proposed order as separate lead documents.

A notice of hearing or proposed order may not be bundled or contained within a motion.

Because motions are not forwarded to the Court Administrator’s e-file queue, the moving party must notify the Court Administrator when a hearing is needed.

Any notice requiring a signature must identify Judge/Court Administrator in its signature block.

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