Dawson County Felony Records
Dawson County felony records are maintained by the District Clerk in Lamesa, Texas, covering all criminal cases that come before the district court in this South Plains county. This page explains where these records are kept, how to search them, and how to request copies.
Dawson County Overview
Dawson County District Clerk
The Dawson County District Clerk's office is at the Dawson County Courthouse in Lamesa, Texas. The District Clerk is the official record keeper for all felony criminal cases in the county. The office files indictments, tracks cases through the 106th District Court, and stores all court documents. At the close of each case, the clerk reports the disposition to the Texas Department of Public Safety for the statewide criminal history record.
The District Clerk also maintains civil, family law, and juvenile court records. If you need to look up a case, having the cause number or defendant's full name ready will speed up the process. Standard Texas copy fees apply: $1 per page for plain copies, $5 per document for certification. A $5 research fee may apply if staff must locate a cause number without one being provided.
Lamesa is the county seat and where all Dawson County felony cases are filed. Court sessions take place at the Dawson County Courthouse. Call the clerk's office to confirm current office hours and payment options before visiting.
The Dawson County official website lists contact information and details for county offices including the District Clerk.
The county site provides courthouse phone numbers, department contacts, and information about court services available in Dawson County.
106th District Court Felony Jurisdiction
The 106th Judicial District Court serves Dawson County and handles all felony criminal cases. The court also hears civil cases over $200,000, family law matters, and juvenile cases. Lamesa is the county seat and the location for all district court sessions. The District Clerk schedules hearing dates and maintains the case docket.
Texas classifies felonies by severity. State jail felonies carry 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility. Third-degree felonies run 2 to 10 years. Second-degree felonies carry 2 to 20 years. First-degree felonies range from 5 to 99 years or life. Capital felonies may result in life in prison or death. Drug offenses, theft, assault, and other serious crimes are prosecuted by the District Attorney in the 106th District Court when they rise to felony level.
All felony case filings are public record. The District Clerk indexes them by cause number and party name. Unless a judge enters a sealing order, anyone can request copies of court documents in Dawson County felony cases.
Online Records Search
The re:SearchTX statewide portal covers all 254 Texas counties including Dawson. Search by name, cause number, or attorney for free basic case details. Document images may require a subscription or in-person access. Data refreshes nightly so very recent filings may not appear right away.
For a statewide criminal background check, use the Texas DPS Crime Records Service at $3 per name-based search. This draws from the statewide Computerized Criminal History and covers all Texas counties. Fingerprint-based searches are more accurate and can be used for formal background check purposes.
The free TDCJ Offender Search shows current inmates in Texas state prisons. Look up people by name or TDCJ number to find current facility, offense, and release date. The Texas Sex Offender Registry is searchable by county for registered offenders in Dawson County.
Records Requests
In-person requests can be made at the Dawson County Courthouse in Lamesa during business hours. Bring valid photo ID. Fees are $1 per page for plain copies plus $5 per document for certification. Allow time for the clerk to locate and copy the file.
For mail requests, write to: Dawson County District Clerk, Dawson County Courthouse, Lamesa, TX 79331. Include the case number or defendant name, a description of the documents you need, your contact information, and payment by check or money order. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return copies. Processing typically takes 5 to 10 business days.
Under Texas Government Code Chapter 552, the county must respond to public records requests within 10 business days. If they cannot meet that deadline, they must notify you and provide an expected completion date.
County Clerk and Sheriff
The Dawson County Clerk handles misdemeanor criminal cases, civil cases under $200,000, probate, real property records, vital records, and marriage licenses. If the case involves a misdemeanor rather than a felony, contact the County Clerk rather than the District Clerk. Both offices are at the Dawson County Courthouse.
The Dawson County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records and jail bookings. For arrest information before charges are formally filed, contact the Sheriff. You can submit a public information request in writing to get arrest reports and booking records from the Sheriff's Office.
Legal Resources
For expunction or nondisclosure of Dawson County records, file a petition with the District Clerk and the 106th District Court. Forms are at the courthouse or at txcourts.gov/rules-forms. Free self-help guides are available at TexasLawHelp.org. Legal aid organizations serve the South Plains area and may assist qualifying residents at reduced or no cost.
Nearby Counties
Dawson County is on the South Plains. Neighboring counties have their own district clerks and felony records offices.