Texas Eviction Answer: Justice Court Rules & TRCP 510 Procedures

Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (TRCP) Rule 510

Residential evictions in Texas originate in the Justice of the Peace (JP) Court under TRCP Rule 510. The citation commands the tenant to appear on a specific day—typically the Monday following the expiration of 6 to 10 days after service.

Filing a Written Answer

While an oral answer is permitted at the hearing under Texas rules, filing a formal written Answer asserting repairs under Tex. Prop. Code § 92.056 or retaliation under § 92.331 creates an official record. If the JP rules against you, you have strictly 5 days to file an appeal to the County Court at Law using a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs.