Screening Services

The Constable Precinct Five Courthouse Security Unit is responsible for providing a safe and secure environment for persons utilizing the Heman Marion Sweatt court building, which is located at 1000 Guadalupe Street, Austin, Texas 78701.

By designation of law and of the Commissioner’s Court is responsible for the screening, safety and security of all persons utilizing the HMS courthouse building and its respective grounds. All persons entering this building are required to be screened before entrance. This building is now comprised of the County Clerk Misdemeanor Records Division and Justice of The Peace Precinct Five only, all other civil courts have moved to the new Civil and Family Court located at 1700 Guadalupe.

Heman Marion Sweatt Courthouse (HMS) Operating Hours.

Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Closed on all National Holidays

The following information may be helpful in determining what location you may need for the court service you are seeking.

PROHIBITED ITEMS INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• • Any firearm or ammunition possessed by anyone other than a peace officer on official business, regardless of CHL.
• • Any kind of firearm magazine(s) possessed by anyone other than a peace officer on official business, regardless of CHL.
• • Holsters-except those possessed by peace officers on official business
• • Any replica or toy guns
• • Any prohibited weapon
• • Any chemical agents, including butane fuel
• • All stun guns or Tasers
• • Any knife
• • Large and medium scissors
• • Any razor or box cutting type knife
• • Screwdrivers with a shaft length of over two inches, pliers, wrenches, hammers, etc., in excess of six inches.
• • Ice picks

Courthouse Bailiff responsibilities include, but are not limited to, preserving the peace in the virtual and in-person courtroom, and ensuring courteous and professional communication throughout the duration of the docket process. Under minimal supervision, performing highly responsible work in coordinating and carrying out responsibilities involving Bailiff duties for court. Makes independent decisions, organizes, and prioritizes workload and performs detailed and complex legal procedures associated with Bailiff responsibilities as assigned by the JP5 court. Assess and troubleshoot logging procedures for parties who have court hearings virtually. Arrest or detain people who are held in contempt, have outstanding warrants, or self-surrender to the court.