Lubbock County court grapples with compliance issues on public access records

Public access to court records in Lubbock County remains a pressing issue, as officials revealed ongoing compliance challenges during the Commissioners' Court Work Session on June 23, 2025. Since the county's system went live in 2021, it has been out of compliance with state law, limiting public access to crucial records.

Commissioners discussed the current state of public access, noting that while staff can access records, the public must request assistance to obtain information on criminal misdemeanors, civil cases, probate cases, and guardianships. This situation has led to increased workloads for staff, who are tied up assisting the public rather than focusing on their primary duties.

The county's IT department is currently testing a new system aimed at restoring public access, but it is not yet ready for rollout. Officials expressed frustration over the delays, with one commissioner stating, "I've been told for three years that they are working on it." The new system is expected to allow access to records going forward, but historical data retrieval remains a challenge.

Additionally, the discussion touched on the need for a property fraud alert system, which would notify residents when documents are filed under their names. This proposal aims to enhance security for Lubbock County citizens, who have expressed concerns about property fraud.

As the county continues to navigate these challenges, the urgency for a solution is clear. The lack of public access not only affects transparency but also places an unnecessary burden on staff. The court's next steps will be crucial in determining how quickly these issues can be resolved and how effectively the county can serve its residents.