If your Texas family law case was heard by an associate judge, you may have the right to a de novo hearing. This legal process gives you the opportunity to have a completely new hearing before the elected district judge. But this right comes with strict deadlines—and if you miss them, the ruling becomes final.

At Barina Law Group in Temple, we regularly file and argue de novo hearings in Bell County and surrounding Central Texas courts.

🔍 What Is a De Novo Hearing?

“De novo” is Latin for “from the beginning.” When you request a de novo hearing, you are asking the elected judge to rehear the matter completely, without deferring to what the associate judge decided.

This is not an appeal in the traditional sense—it is a full second hearing.

⚖️ When Does It Apply?

You can request a de novo hearing after most rulings issued by:

  • Associate judges in family law cases (custody, divorce, support, enforcement)
  • Child protection courts (CPS removals, placements, terminations)
  • IV-D courts (Attorney General child support or paternity cases)

⏱️ What Is the Deadline?

Under Texas Family Code § 201.015, you must file a written request for a de novo hearing:

✅ Within three working days of receiving notice of the associate judge’s ruling.

Working days do not include weekends or court holidays.

The notice may be:

  • Verbal in open court (after the ruling is announced), or
  • Written notice of the associate judge’s report or proposed order.

If you don’t file your request in time, the associate judge’s ruling becomes final and enforceable.

📋 Why Request a De Novo Hearing?

You should consider a de novo hearing if:

  • You believe the ruling is incorrect or unjust
  • You were not given adequate time to present your case
  • New evidence has surfaced
  • You were unrepresented or caught off-guard in the original hearing

At Barina Law Group, we act quickly to protect your right to a second chance before the elected judge. We prepare the written request, serve it correctly, and develop a strong courtroom strategy for the new hearing.

📍 Serving Temple, Killeen, Belton, and all of Bell County

We’ve helped parents, spouses, and grandparents take control of their legal outcomes through properly filed and argued de novo hearings. Don’t delay—your clock is already ticking.

👉 Learn more at: www.bobbybarinalaw.com