The county judge is the most visible official in county government.

Often thought of as the county’s chief executive officer, a county judge has broad judicial and administrative powers, including serving as the presiding officer of the county’s policy-making body, the commissioners court.

Referred to as chief justice by early Texas constitutions, the current office of county judge was established by the Texas Constitution of 1876.

What Does a County Judge Do in Texas?

• Presiding officer of the commissioners court
• Represents the county in many administrative functions
• Serves as budget officer in counties with fewer than 225,000 residents
• Most have broad judicial duties, such as presiding over misdemeanor criminal and small civil cases, probate matters and appeals from the Justice of the Peace Court
• Serves as head of emergency management