Commissioners Approve Part Time Clerks for JP 3 and JP 4 to Manage Caseloads

The Rockwall County Commissioners Court held a special meeting on August 27, 2025, where key discussions focused on staffing needs for the Justice of the Peace (JP) courts. The meeting highlighted the increasing workload in JP 3 and JP 4, particularly in handling civil cases and traffic violations, which have significantly contributed to revenue generation.

Commissioner Lichtdy emphasized the necessity of adding part-time clerks to alleviate the burden on these courts. He noted that JP 3 has been particularly busy, with a notable increase in revenue from traffic tickets, amounting to approximately $88,000 in recent months. The discussion revealed that while JP 1 and JP 2 are not experiencing the same level of demand, JP 3 and JP 4 are overwhelmed with cases, necessitating additional support.

The court unanimously approved motions to hire part-time clerks for both JP 3 and JP 4, reflecting a strategic approach to assess ongoing staffing needs without committing to full-time positions immediately. This decision aims to provide immediate relief while allowing for future evaluations of the workload and staffing requirements.

In addition to the staffing discussions, the meeting also touched on funding for the District Attorney's office, indicating ongoing efforts to address the administrative demands within the county's judicial system. The court's actions underscore a proactive approach to managing increasing case loads and ensuring efficient operations within the county's judicial framework.