Virtual Court Program

TDCJ’s Virtual Court Program is a groundbreaking initiative that leverages technology to modernize justice administration within the state. By utilizing secure video conferencing technology, the Virtual Court Program facilitates remote court appearances, minimizing the need for physical transport and significantly reducing costs and security risks associated with inmate transfers.

Benefits

The Virtual Court Program enables court cases to be resolved more efficiently while individuals remain in custody. This reduces the need for bench warrants and extraditions from TDCJ to county custody, reducing security risks and costs associated with transportation and housing.

How it Works

The Virtual Court Program is best suited for preliminary matters, uncontested issues, or proceedings that can be resolved or completed within one hour. This approach promotes equal access to courts across all judicial jurisdictions, ensuring timely and consistent adjudication regardless of geographic location.

Scheduling a Hearing

A request for a virtual hearing must be submitted by the courts, as mentioned in Board Policy 03.81. The Virtual Court Office will not accept requests from attorneys.

Step 1: Submit the court order via e-mail to TDCJVirtualCourt@tdcj.texas.gov, a minimum of 14 business days in advance. The order must meet all requirements within BP 03.81, and include:

• Inmate’s name and TDCJ or SID number
• Date and time of the hearing
• Zoom or Webex information

Step 2: E-mail TDCJVirtualCourt@tdcj.texas.gov and request approval to be added to the list of approved court account.

Step 3: After the court's official governmental e-mail address is added to the approved court account by the Virtual Court Office, visit the TDCJ visitation portal and follow the instructions to create an account. TDCJ will be notified when the profile has been completed.

Step 4: Sign in to the newly created account and locate the desired inmate to schedule for hearing. Next, request approval, and a message will display “Approval Pending.” If approved, the registered account will receive a confirmation message that the inmate has been added to the court's profile for scheduling.

Note: TDCJ will not approve access to schedule inmate hearings without a court order.

Step 5: Add the desired inmate and schedule the hearing.

Checklist

After the hearing, the court coordinator or their designee must return to TDCJ the completed “checklist,” which serves as notification of the status or disposition of the proceeding and ensures the inmate record can be updated appropriately. This process is similar to the documentation provided to TDCJ when an incarcerated individual leaves and returns under a bench warrant, supporting accountability and effective inmate management.

Need Help?

Visit our Frequently Asked Questions or e-mail TDCJVirtualCourt@tdcj.texas.gov.