What an Eviction Case Costs in Fort Bend County

Knowing the costs helps you see what is happening and avoid scams. These numbers come from Fort Bend County web pages and the county's constable fee schedule. They change, and different pages list slightly different amounts, so treat them as a guide and confirm with the court.

On the landlord's side, the county lists court costs of about $134 when an eviction is filed, with other fees possible. Constables charge about $80 to serve the citation. A writ of possession is listed around $180 to $185. A jury trial request has a $22 fee. Those costs are generally the landlord's to pay up front, and a landlord can ask the court to award court costs against a tenant who loses.

On your side, you usually do not pay to answer or to go to the hearing. If you appeal, you may have to post a bond or deposit, and the judge decides the amount. If you cannot afford it, Texas law lets you file a sworn Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs instead. That statement covers court costs, but it does not remove the rent you may need to pay into the court registry to stay in the home during the appeal.

Nobody at the court, the constable's office, or a legitimate legal aid group will ask you for cash to make a case go away. Be careful with anyone who promises that for a fee.

What to do.

Ask the clerk for any costs in writing. Keep receipts. If a cost is a barrier, ask the court clerk about the Statement of Inability form and ask legal aid whether it applies to you.

Every eviction case is different, so it's always a good idea to confirm the details with a qualified legal advocate before making any decisions. NeighborSTAND's Resources page lists legal aid for Fort Bend County.