Smith County, TX
Home MenuConstitutional County Court Judge
County Judge Neal Franklin
Smith County Court is a constitutional county court which is defined as "a court named or described and expressly protected in a constitution, or recognized by name or definite description in a constitution."
The County Court of Smith County is charged with hearing mental health matters filed in Smith County.
Please note: Court staff can inform you about the services of the Court and can answer questions regarding how the Court works, but they cannot answer substantive legal questions. Court staff is prohibited by law from giving legal advice. You will need to contact an attorney to seek legal advice.
Location
Smith County Courthouse Annex
200 E. Ferguson, Suite 100
Tyler, Texas 75702
Staff
Rachel McCord
Executive Assistant
- Assists County Judge w/administrative duties
- Coordinates County Judge's administrative calendar
- Assists staff with all aspects of County Court
Donna Henry
Mental Health Coordinator
- Mental Commitments
- Assists with Probate & Guardianship dockets
- Schedules Mental Hearings
- Assists with submission docket
- Compliance
Mental Health questions - Office Hours Monday-Friday 8:00am - 5pm; if you need assistance outside normal business hours, please contact 9-1-1
FAQs
What is mental illness?
As defined by the Texas Health and Safety Code: An illness, disease or condition, other than epilepsy, dementia, substance abuse or intellectual disability, that: substantially impairs a person's thought, perception of reality, emotional process or judgment; or grossly impairs behavior as demonstrated by recent disturbed behavior.
What process do I follow to have someone committed?
You must first call the Andrews Center (903-597-1351) and speak to a therapist on call about court ordered commitment services. The Andrews Center is the single port of authority for the mental health system in Smith County. If the therapist feels that the proposed patient meets the criteria for court-ordered services, he/she will refer you to the County Court, or in an immediate emergency/crisis call 911.