About Coke County
Coke County is a rural county located in West Central Texas, situated on the eastern edge of the Permian Basin region. Established in 1889 and organized in 1891, Coke County was named after Richard Coke, the 15th Governor of Texas and later a U.S. Senator. Robert Lee serves as Coke County Seat, named after Confederate General Robert E. Lee. Coke County covers approximately 899 square miles of rolling plains and valleys, characterized by the Colorado River running through its northern portions.
- Spence Reservoir, a major recreational attraction created by damming the Colorado River, which provides fishing, boating, and water recreation opportunities.
As of recent census estimates, Coke County maintains a population of approximately 3,300 residents, reflecting its predominantly agricultural and ranching heritage. Coke County is known for its scenic scenes, including the E.V. The economy has historically centered on livestock ranching, oil and gas production, and agriculture, particularly cotton and grain farming.
Coke County Courthouse in Robert Lee, a historic structure, is the administrative center. Coke County Clerk's office, located at 13 East 7th Street in Robert Lee, maintains vital records, court documents, and property filings. Coke County Tax Assessor-Collector, also based in the courthouse, handles property tax assessments and collections.
The sparsely populated county exemplifies West Texas rural character, with vast open spaces, limited urban development, and a close community culture. Bronte, Coke County's other incorporated town, adds to Coke County's small-town atmosphere. Historical markers throughout Coke County commemorate its frontier heritage and early settlement period.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
Coke County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement across the unincorporated areas of Coke County. It manages Coke County jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The Sheriff's Office is key to making sure of public safety and often collaborates with other local law enforcement agencies to address crime and community concerns. Notable programs may include community policing initiatives and crime prevention workshops meant to building a safer environment for residents.
Police Departments
In addition to Coke County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in Coke County is supported by municipal police departments in cities like Robert Lee and Bronte. Each department is responsible for enforcing laws within their respective city limits, handling local crime, and working on community policing efforts. These agencies often coordinate with the Sheriff's Office on major crimes and investigations that cross jurisdictional boundaries, making sure of a unified approach to law enforcement across Coke County.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Law enforcement in Coke County is primarily provided by Coke County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 13 East 7th Street, Robert Lee, TX 76945. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at and maintains jurisdiction throughout the unincorporated areas of Coke County as well as provides contracted services to smaller municipalities. The office operates Coke County Jail, a small detention facility that houses inmates awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences.
- Processing times and copy fees apply as permitted under state law.
- Mugshots and booking photos are generally included in arrest records and may be available upon request, though Coke County does not publish these online.
Inmate information and jail roster details can typically be obtained by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly during business hours, as Coke County does not maintain a publicly accessible online inmate search database due to its small size. Municipal law enforcement is provided by the Robert Lee Police Department and the Bronte Police Department, which handle city ordinance violations and criminal matters within their respective city limits. Arrest records in Coke County are considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552), and citizens may request copies of arrest reports, incident reports, and booking records by submitting a written or verbal request to the Sheriff's Office or respective police departments.
For more detailed criminal history information, the Texas Department of Public Safety maintains statewide criminal records accessible through official channels. The Sheriff's Office also coordinates with the Texas Rangers and other state agencies for major criminal investigations. Citizens seeking information about current inmates, bond amounts, or visitation schedules should contact the jail directly at the Sheriff's Office number.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
Coke County's criminal records system includes documentation of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and sex offender registrations. The Sheriff's Office, along with local police departments, maintains these records, which are accessible to the public under the Texas Public Information Act. To conduct a background check, individuals can request records from the relevant law enforcement agency or use services provided by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Coke County are maintained by Coke County Sheriff's Office. These records provide detailed information about arrests made within Coke County, including the date, time, and nature of the offense. Residents and attorneys can request access to these records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly, under the Texas Public Information Act. Arrest records typically include personal information about the arrestee, charges filed, and the arresting agency, providing a summary of the incident.
Jail & Inmate Records
Coke County Jail, located in Robert Lee, is the primary detention facility for Coke County. It handles the booking process for people arrested within Coke County, where they are photographed and fingerprinted. Inmate lookup services are available, allowing family members and legal representatives to find information about current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, typically requiring visitors to schedule in advance and adhere to strict guidelines.
- The bond and bail process follows Texas state law, allowing for the release of detainees pending trial upon payment of bail, which can be arranged through the jail or a bail bondsman.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Coke County are taken and retained by Coke County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the public record and can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office, either in person or potentially through an online portal if available. Texas does not have specific mugshot removal laws, so these images remain accessible unless expunged by court order. Individuals seeking mugshots can inquire directly with the Sheriff's Office for the most current procedures and availability.
Courts & Case Records
The judicial system in Coke County operates through the 51st Judicial District Court, which serves multiple counties including Coke County with jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $200 in controversy, divorce and family law cases, and juvenile matters. Coke County Court holds sessions in Coke County Courthouse at 13 East 7th Street, Robert Lee, TX 76945.
- Fees for copying court documents are established by state law, typically $1.00 per page for standard copies and additional charges for certified copies.
- Researchers should contact the appropriate clerk's office in advance to confirm document availability and applicable fees.
For district court inquiries, Coke County District Clerk can be contacted for Coke County Court at Law, presided over by the County Judge, handles misdemeanor criminal cases, probate matters, and county administrative functions. Justice of the Peace courts serve individual precincts within Coke County, handling small claims (up to $20,000), Class C misdemeanors, traffic violations, and performing magistrate duties including issuing warrants and conducting inquests. Court records in Coke County are public documents subject to the Texas Public Information Act (Government Code Chapter 552) with certain exceptions for sealed records, juvenile matters, and specific family law cases.
Citizens seeking to search court records may visit the District Clerk's office or County Clerk's office in person during regular business hours, typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Due to Coke County's small size and limited resources, online case lookup is not available through a county-maintained portal; however, some case information may be accessible through the Texas Judicial Branch's case search systems.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Coke County are maintained by Coke County Clerk, serving as the County Recorder, located at 13 East 7th Street, Robert Lee, TX 76945, phone. Coke County Clerk's office records and maintains all real property documents including warranty deeds, special warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, deeds of trust, mortgage documents, mechanic's and materialmen's liens, federal tax liens, releases, easements, right-of-way agreements, and subdivision plat maps. These records are indexed by grantor, grantee, and legal description to help with public searches.
- While Coke County does not currently offer a full online property record search system, interested parties may conduct searches in person or request records by mail or phone.
- Copy fees are established by Texas statute, typically $1.00 per page for standard copies and $5.00 for the first page of a certified copy plus $1.00 for each additional page.
The official public records are available for inspection during regular office hours, and Coke County maintains deed records dating back to its organization in 1891. Property tax records and assessment information are handled by Coke County Appraisal District, which maintains property valuations, ownership data, and exemption information. The Appraisal District may offer limited online search capabilities for tax assessment data.
For current property tax bills and payment status, contact Coke County Tax Assessor-Collector for Requests for certified copies of recorded documents should be directed to the County Clerk with specific document information including volume and page number, recording date, or names of parties. Oil and gas lease records, mineral rights conveyances, and production-related documents are also recorded with the County Clerk and represent a significant portion of Coke County's property records due to active petroleum industry operations.
Vital Records
Vital records for Coke County, Texas, are managed through multiple agencies depending on the record type and date. Birth and death certificates that occurred in Coke County can be requested through Coke County Clerk's office at 13 East 7th Street, Robert Lee, TX 76945, phone, for events registered locally. However, the Texas Department of State Health Services Vital Statistics Section in Austin is the centralized state repository for all Texas birth and death certificates and is often the most reliable source for certified copies.
- Birth certificates cost $23.00 for the first copy and $23.00 for each additional copy of the same record ordered at the same time, with processing taking approximately three to four weeks for mail requests.
- Death certificates cost the same amount with similar processing times.
- Online ordering is available through the Texas.gov VitalChek service, which offers expedited processing for additional fees.
- Marriage ceremonies may be performed by the County Judge or other authorized officiants, and certified copies of marriage certificates are available from the County Clerk for $10.00.
- Divorce records are maintained by the District Clerk as part of the court case files, and certified copies can be requested through that office.
Applicants must provide valid government-issued photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record as required by Texas Family Code Section 191.0045 and Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 191. Marriage licenses are issued by Coke County Clerk, requiring both applicants to appear in person with valid identification, proof of age, and payment of applicable fees (typically $81.00, though this may be reduced with completion of premarital education). Informational (non-certified) copies of some vital records may have different access requirements.
For genealogical research or records older than 75 years, certain restrictions may be relaxed under Texas law.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Coke County are maintained through several agencies depending on the type of business activity and regulatory requirements. Coke County Clerk, located at 13 East 7th Street, Robert Lee, TX 76945, phone, handles the registration of assumed names (Doing Business As or DBA filings) and fictitious business names as required by Texas Business & Commerce Code Chapter 71. These filings are required for sole proprietorships and partnerships operating under a name other than the owner's legal name, with fees typically around $25.00 for the initial filing.
- Business entities must register with the Secretary of State's office and comply with state franchise tax requirements administered by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.
- The Robert Lee-Coke County Chamber of Commerce provides support for local business development, though contact information should be verified locally as rural chambers often operate with volunteer leadership.
For full business entity searches including corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, and professional associations, the Texas Secretary of State maintains the SOSDirect online database at www.sos.state.tx.us, providing free public access to business formation documents, registered agents, filing history, and entity status. Professional licenses for occupations such as medical practitioners, cosmetologists, electricians, and plumbers are issued by respective state licensing boards, not at Coke County level. Sales tax permits are obtained through the Texas Comptroller's office.
Local business licensing requirements, if any, would be enforced by the cities of Robert Lee and Bronte for businesses operating within city limits, requiring contact with respective city secretaries. Building permits, construction permits, and zoning compliance in unincorporated areas fall under county jurisdiction and are typically handled through the County Judge's office or designated county administrator.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Coke County are administered by Coke County Elections Administrator working with the County Clerk's office, located at 13 East 7th Street, Robert Lee, TX 76945. For election related inquiries, contact. Voter registration in Texas is handled at Coke County level, and residents may register by completing a Texas Voter Registration Application available at the County Clerk's office, online at the Texas Secretary of State website (www.votetexas.gov), or through various state agencies and volunteer deputy registrars.
- Registered voters can verify their registration status and find their assigned polling location through the Texas Secretary of State's website or by contacting the County Clerk.
- The 2024 general election turnout in Coke County was approximately 65-70% of registered voters, reflecting relatively strong civic engagement typical of rural Texas counties.
- Texas maintains relatively transparent election processes with most records available upon request under the Public Information Act, though certain voter information is protected.
The voter registration deadline in Texas is 30 days prior to any election, and online registration is not currently available in Texas, applications must be mailed or delivered with original signature. Coke County typically maintains several polling locations in Robert Lee and Bronte for election day voting, with specific locations announced prior to each election. Early voting is conducted at designated sites, usually at the courthouse and possibly additional locations, for a period specified by the Texas Election Code (typically 17 days for general elections).
Election records considered public information include voter registration lists (with certain personal information redacted per Texas Election Code Section 18.066), precinct-by-precinct election results, candidate filing documents, and campaign finance reports filed with Coke County. The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring U.S. House of Representatives races, statewide offices including Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and various state legislative seats, plus local county positions depending on term schedules.
Absentee voting by mail in Texas is restricted to voters who are 65 or older, disabled, confined in jail but eligible to vote, or will be outside Coke County during the early voting period and on election day. Applications for mail-in ballots must be submitted to Coke County Early Voting Clerk (typically the County Clerk) with specific deadlines established by the Texas Election Code.
Economy & Demographics
Coke County's economy is rooted in traditional West Texas industries including agriculture, ranching, and oil and gas extraction, reflecting its position in the semi-arid rangelands of the Permian Basin periphery. Livestock ranching, particularly cattle and sheep operations, dominates the rural scene, with many family-owned ranches operating for multiple generations. Coke County's agricultural output includes cotton, wheat, hay, and grain sorghum production where irrigation and rainfall permit.
- The median household income in Coke County is estimated at approximately $48,000 to $52,000, below the Texas state average, reflecting the rural, agricultural economic base and limited corporate employment opportunities.
The petroleum industry represents a significant economic contributor, with oil and gas wells scattered throughout Coke County providing royalty income to landowners and tax revenue to county government. Major employers in Coke County include school districts (Robert Lee Independent School District and Bronte Independent School District), county government, healthcare facilities, and local businesses serving the agricultural sector. The E.V.
Spence Reservoir supports recreation-based economic activity including fishing guide services, marina operations, and weekend tourism, though this sector remains modest. Retail and service businesses in Robert Lee and Bronte serve local populations and passing travelers on highways. Coke County has experienced relatively stable population trends with slight declines typical of rural Texas counties as younger residents migrate to larger metropolitan areas for employment.
Unemployment rates tend to fluctuate with oil prices and agricultural conditions, generally tracking slightly above state averages. Economic development efforts focus on maintaining infrastructure, supporting existing agricultural and energy operations, and preserving quality of life for current residents rather than pursuing major industrial recruitment.
Transparency Score
Court Records: Limited: In-Person Access | Property: Limited: Online | Arrest/Jail: Limited: Phone/In-Person | Vital Records: Limited: In-Person/State | Business: Yes: State Online (DBA Local) | Elections: Limited: In-Person | Overall Score: 5/10, Coke County's small size limits digital infrastructure; most records require in-person or phone requests, though property tax and business searches available through state systems.
Official Government Resources
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Cities & Towns in Coke County
Explore public records for 4 cities and communities in Coke County, Texas.