Bexar County magistrates and judges are key officials who help keep the court system fair, organized, and accessible. From setting bail and hearing initial charges to presiding over full court trials, each plays a critical role in how justice is handled locally. Whether you’re involved in a case or simply need official information, understanding who these officials are—and what they do—can be important.
Magistrates in Texas, including those in Bexar County, are responsible for early-stage judicial duties. This includes conducting arraignments, setting bail, issuing warrants, and reviewing probable cause in criminal matters. Judges, on the other hand, oversee trials and hearings in civil, criminal, family, probate, and other courts. Both help move cases through the legal process while protecting rights and maintaining order.
Many people search for this information to confirm which judge is handling a case, check a magistrate’s assignment at the jail, or find contact details. This page makes it easier to find verified profiles and roles of Bexar court officials—all in one place.
Magistrate Records Search Tool
Search Bexar County Magistrate or Judge by Name
If you’re looking for a specific judge list in Bexar, this section makes it easier to find what you need. Whether you’re searching for a magistrate involved in a jail hearing or a district judge presiding over a case, the directory tool helps you locate the right court official quickly and accurately.
How to Use the Bexar Judge Directory
The Bexar County judge directory is built for ease of use. You can search by:
- Name – Enter a full or partial name to locate a specific magistrate or judge.
- Department – Choose from Criminal, Civil, Family, Probate, or Juvenile courts.
- Assignment – Filter results by specific duties such as bond hearings, arraignments, or courtroom numbers.
This helps you narrow down results and match the exact official you’re looking for—whether you’re tracking a current case, attending a hearing, or just need contact information.
By combining these filters, the tool delivers fast and accurate results based on current court assignments in Bexar County. It’s a reliable way to stay informed and avoid confusion in legal matters.
Bexar County Judge List: Departments and Assignments
In Bexar County, judges and magistrates are assigned across several departments. Each department handles different cases, from criminal hearings to family disputes. Understanding these assignments helps users locate the right official for their legal matter.
Civil Courts
Civil courts in Bexar County manage lawsuits, small claims, and disputes between private parties. Judges in this department handle non-criminal matters involving property, contracts, and personal injury claims. Civil courts also oversee cases involving protective orders.
Criminal Courts
If you’re looking for a criminal court judge in Bexar, this department handles felony and misdemeanor cases. Judges here preside over trials, plea hearings, and bond decisions. Some magistrates also cover initial arraignments and arrest warrants.
Family Courts
Family courts are responsible for divorce, child custody, adoption, and support enforcement cases. Judges assigned to this department manage emotionally sensitive matters and ensure legal rights for families and children are protected under Texas law.
Probate Courts
This department covers wills, estates, and guardianships. Probate judges determine the legal handling of deceased individuals’ property and oversee matters related to mental health commitments or guardianship of adults with disabilities.
Each judge or magistrate in the Bexar County judge list is assigned to a specific department. This organized structure improves access and helps the public better understand who’s handling their case or legal concern.
Profiles of Active Bexar County Judges
Looking up Bexar County judges can help you understand who is presiding over your case. Whether you’re preparing for a hearing or researching court leadership, having access to judge profiles builds confidence and clarity. Here are a few active judges serving in Bexar County courts, with links to their official biographies or court pages for further details.
Judge Ron Rangel
Judge Ron Rangel brings years of legal experience and dedication to the courtroom. His background reflects a strong commitment to upholding justice in Bexar County.
- Court Type: 379th District Court (Criminal)
- Experience: Judge Rangel has served on the bench since 2009. Before that, he worked as a criminal defense attorney.
- Education: J.D. from Thurgood Marshall School of Law.
Judge Mary Lou Alvarez
Judge Mary Lou Alvarez presides over civil matters with a commitment to fairness and a strong foundation in legal practice. Her career reflects a dedication to serving the community through the justice system.
- Court Type: 45th District Court (Civil)
- Experience: Elected in 2018, she brings over 15 years of legal work, including family and civil litigation.
- Education: J.D. from the University of Texas at Austin.
Judge Monique Diaz
Judge Monique Diaz serves on the 150th District Court in Bexar County, Texas, and has a strong reputation for fairness and legal insight. Her professional path reflects a commitment to justice through both private and public legal work.
- Court Type: 150th District Court (Civil)
- Experience: Judge Diaz has worked in both private practice and public legal services. Elected in 2018.
- Education: J.D. from St. Mary’s University School of Law.
Judge Yolanda Huff
Judge Yolanda Huff has earned recognition for her innovative approach to criminal justice, particularly through her work in mental health courts. Her background reflects a strong commitment to reform and community-oriented solutions.
- Court Type: County Court 12 (Criminal)
- Experience: Known for her work in mental health courts, Judge Huff was elected in 2018.
- Education: J.D. from St. Mary’s University.
Judge David Canales
Judge David Canales serves with a strong commitment to fairness and diligence in the 73rd District Court. His experience and education have equipped him well to handle a variety of civil cases.
- Court Type: 73rd District Court (Civil)
- Experience: Judge Canales was elected in 2012 and has since overseen civil litigation, including personal injury and commercial disputes.
- Education: J.D. from St. Mary’s University School of Law.
Each judge listed here plays a role in maintaining fair and timely decisions in Bexar County district courts. Their backgrounds in law help shape how cases are handled in civil, criminal, and specialty courts. Use the linked pages to learn more about their professional paths, courtroom procedures, and staff contact details.
Profiles of Bexar County Magistrates
Bexar County magistrates handle the first step in the criminal justice process. They conduct initial hearings, inform people of their charges, and set bail. A Bexar County magistrate may also determine whether there is enough legal reason to hold someone in jail. These responsibilities are carried out every day and night to keep the system moving.
What Does a Magistrate Do in Bexar County?
Magistrate duties in Bexar include:
- Reviewing arrest reports
- Conducting probable cause hearings
- Setting bail and bond conditions
- Issuing emergency protective orders
- Handling mental health warrants
They often work closely with the booking area and are sometimes called Bexar County booking judges. Many serve on night or weekend shifts to handle after-hours arrests.
Assignment Types
Magistrates are not assigned to specific courts but to functions:
- Jail Magistrate: Handles cases from the Bexar County Adult Detention Center
- Night/Weekend Magistrate: Covers overnight shifts and weekends
- On-Call Magistrate: Responds to urgent orders or situations
They operate under the Central Magistrate Division, located near the Bexar County Jail. This setup ensures 24/7 coverage for arrests across the county.
Magistrate Contact Information
If you need to reach the magistrate’s office for inquiries or assistance, the following contact details will help you get in touch promptly. The office is available around the clock to support your needs.
- Location: Central Magistrate 401 S. Frio Street, San Antonio, TX 78207
- Phone: (210) 335-6111
- Hours: Available 24/7, including holidays
Sample Magistrates (2024–2025)
Magistrates are appointed, not elected. Here are a few who have recently served:
- Judge Andrew Carruthers – Jail Magistrate
- Judge Lisa Gonzalez – Night Magistrate
- Judge Paul Canales – On-call duty rotation
The list may rotate based on assignments and availability.
Bexar County magistrates play a key role in protecting rights and keeping the justice system moving. Whether you’re trying to contact the Central Magistrate Office or understand how bail is set, this information helps you stay informed and prepared.
Magistrate Court Schedule & Locations
If someone is arrested in Bexar County, they must appear before a Bexar County magistrate within a short period, often within 24 hours. This hearing is where charges are read and bail is set. Since arrests happen at all times, magistrates work around the clock to handle initial appearances.
Bexar County Magistrate Hours
Bexar County magistrate hours cover every day of the week, day and night. The court does not close for weekends or holidays. This schedule ensures all arrested persons receive a timely hearing.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
Monday to Sunday | 24 hours |
| Holidays | Open |
Night Shifts | Active every night |
Emergency Orders | On-call availability |
The busiest times are late evenings and weekends due to increased arrests.
Where Hearings Take Place
All initial magistrate hearings take place at the Central Magistrate Division, located next to the Bexar County Adult Detention Center.
Location:
Bexar County Central Magistrate
401 S. Frio Street
San Antonio, TX 78207
Phone: (210) 335-6111
Public Access:
- Limited to approved visitors
- Hearings are not live-streamed
- In-person services depend on current policies
What Happens During These Hearings
During a magistrate’s appearance, the person arrested will:
- Hear the formal charges
- Learn their legal rights
- Receive a bail amount or be denied bail (depending on the offense)
- Possibly receive a Protective Order (in domestic or violent cases)
Ongoing Availability
Because magistrates handle after-hours duties, they work on rotating schedules. Some are assigned overnight, while others are on-call for holidays or high-priority incidents. This setup helps Bexar County courts meet legal timing requirements for processing arrests.
Whether it’s midnight on a Saturday or early morning on a holiday, a Bexar County magistrate is available to hear cases and start the legal process. For real-time updates or hearing requests, contact the Central Magistrate Division directly.
Contact Information: Judges & Magistrates
If you need to reach a Bexar County judge or magistrate, knowing the correct office contact details can help you get the information or support you’re looking for. Below is a list of phone numbers, addresses, and available public contact methods for key judicial offices.
Main Contact for Magistrate Court
For any inquiries or assistance related to the Magistrate Court, please use the following contact details. The office is available around the clock to address your needs.
- Location: 401 S. Frio Street, San Antonio, TX 78207
- Phone: (210) 335-6111
- Hours: 24/7, including weekends and holidays
Bexar County District Courts
For case questions, scheduling, or courtroom-specific matters, contact the appropriate district court. These courts handle felony cases and civil matters involving large claims.
- Bexar County District Clerk’s Office: 101 W. Nueva, Suite 217, San Antonio, TX 78205
- Phone: (210) 335-2113
- Website: https://www.bexar.org/2927/District-Clerk
Bexar County Courts-at-Law
County courts handle misdemeanors, small civil disputes, and probate matters.
- Bexar County Clerk’s Office: 100 Dolorosa, Basement, San Antonio, TX 78205
- Phone: (210) 335-2216
- Website: https://www.bexar.org/324/County-Clerk
Direct Court Staff Directory
The Bexar County Court Staff Directory includes courtroom clerks, court coordinators, and bailiff contacts. While most judges do not publish personal emails or direct lines, their staff can help with scheduling or inquiries.
- Directory: https://www.bexar.org/3320/Court-Directory
Contact Disclaimer
Public communication with judges is limited. Judges do not respond to case-related emails or calls. For case updates, file status, or setting hearings, speak with their court coordinator or clerk staff. Attempting to contact judges directly about ongoing cases may violate court rules and can be considered improper.
Need Help with a Specific Judge or Courtroom?
Use the Judicial Directory to locate which judge is assigned to your case and how to contact the proper court department for your needs.
This structured contact list makes it easier to reach the correct office for your question, whether you’re asking about a bond hearing or a court date. Always double-check office hours and procedures, especially during holidays or emergencies.
How to File a Complaint or Request Judicial Review
If you believe a judge or magistrate in Bexar County has acted inappropriately, you have the right to file a judicial complaint or request a review. This section explains the process clearly and shows where to submit your concern.
When to File a Judicial Complaint
A complaint may be appropriate if a judge:
- Shows bias or unfair treatment
- Engages in misconduct or unethical behavior
- Fails to follow legal procedures
- Uses inappropriate language or behavior in court
Judicial complaints do not cover issues such as case outcomes, legal disagreements, or decisions you simply disagree with. For those, you may need to appeal through the proper legal process.
Who Handles Judicial Complaints in Texas?
All complaints about judges in Bexar County are reviewed by the State Commission on Judicial Conduct (SCJC). This state agency investigates conduct issues for all Texas judges, including those in district, county, and magistrate courts.
How to File a Complaint – Step-by-Step
Before downloading the complaint form, ensure you fully understand the steps involved in the filing process. Gathering all necessary documentation in advance can help prevent delays.
Download the Complaint Form
SCJC Complaint Form (PDF)
Complete All Sections
Clearly explain what happened, when, and where. Include names, case numbers, and supporting evidence if available.
Submit the Complaint
Mail, fax, or email the completed form to:
State Commission on Judicial Conduct
- Location: P.O. Box 12265, Austin, TX 78711
- Phone: (512) 463-5533
- Fax: (512) 463-0511
- Email: information@scjc.texas.gov
- Website: https://scjc.texas.gov
What Happens After Submission?
Once you have submitted your complaint, the process begins to ensure your concerns are properly addressed. Here is what you can expect to happen next:
- You will receive confirmation once your complaint is received.
- The SCJC will review your report to decide if it falls under their authority.
- You may be contacted for more details.
- You will be notified when the investigation is complete.
Keep in mind: all investigations are private, and the commission doesn’t share updates while a review is ongoing.
Important Reminders
Please keep the following guidelines in mind when addressing concerns or filing complaints related to the Bexar County court system.
- Do not send complaints directly to the judge or the Bexar County court.
- Retaliation against complainants is not allowed.
- Filing a complaint will not stop your court case or change a ruling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions people have about Bexar County judges and magistrates.
Who appoints magistrates in Bexar County?
In Bexar County, magistrates are appointed by the Bexar County Commissioners Court. These appointments are made based on the needs of the court system and the qualifications of the individuals.
How does someone become a judge in Bexar County?
To become a judge in Bexar County, a candidate must meet specific legal requirements, including having a law degree and a certain amount of legal experience. Judges are usually elected in county elections, though some positions may be appointed by the governor, depending on the vacancy.
What is the role of a magistrate in Bexar County?
A Bexar County magistrate handles a variety of preliminary duties, including issuing warrants, setting bail, and overseeing initial hearings for criminal cases. Magistrates ensure that cases follow proper legal procedures before moving forward to trial.
Can I contact a Bexar County magistrate directly?
While you can contact the Bexar County Clerk’s office for information about cases or procedures, magistrates generally do not handle direct public inquiries. For case updates or concerns, it’s best to work through the proper court channels.
How do I find out which magistrate is handling my case?
You can check the Bexar County court records online to find out which magistrate or judge is assigned to your case. You may also contact the court for this information, but it is often available through public court portals.