(a) In this article, “child” has the meaning assigned by Article 45A.453(a).
(b) Except as provided by Article 15.27 and Subsection (c) of this article, all records and files, including those held by law enforcement, and information stored by electronic means or otherwise, from which a record or file could be generated, relating to a child who is charged with, is convicted of, is found not guilty of, had a charge dismissed for, or is granted deferred disposition for a fine-only misdemeanor offense other than a traffic offense are confidential and may not be disclosed to the public.

Terms Used In Texas Code of Criminal Procedure 45A.462

  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Guardian: A person legally empowered and charged with the duty of taking care of and managing the property of another person who because of age, intellect, or health, is incapable of managing his (her) own affairs.
  • Justice: when applied to a magistrate, means justice of the peace. See Texas Government Code 312.011

(c) Information subject to Subsection (b) may be open to inspection only by:
(1) a judge or court staff;
(2) a criminal justice agency for a criminal justice purpose, as those terms are defined by § 411.082, Government Code;
(3) the Department of Public Safety;
(4) an attorney for a party to the proceeding;
(5) the child defendant; or
(6) the defendant’s parent, guardian, or managing conservator.


Text of article effective on January 01, 2025

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