Just as municipal courts occupy a unique niche in the Texas judicial system, so do municipal prosecutors. From the smallest town to the largest city, prosecutorsinmunicipal courts play a vital role in the administration of justice. It is estimated that more than 700 attorneys licensed in Texas prosecute in municipal courts.
Compared to other prosecutors, municipal prosecutors handle the most cases, conduct the most trials, and have more contact with members of the public. While all prosecutors in Texas have a duty, not to convict, but to see that justice is done, the challenge of ensuring justice in a municipal court is further complicated by laws that are similar but different from those in county and district courts.
These differences, combined with regular changes in the law by the Texas Legislature, make specialized legal training essential. Since 1992, through a grant from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, TMCEC has offered specialized continuing legal education to prosecuting attorneys who serve in municipal courts across the state.
Because obtaining specialized knowledge is a hallmark of professionalism and requires commitment and focus, TMCEC believes it also deserves special recognition. Accordingly, beginning in 2024, TMCEC is excited to announce the introduction of the Prosecutor Professionalism Program (PPP).
With this program, we aim to encourage and reward prosecutors who obtain annual specialized municipal court-focused training through TMCEC.
For details, go the Prosecutors webpage.