Wharton County

Wharton County is located in the coastal plains region of Southeast Texas, approximately 60 miles southwest of Houston. Established in 1846 and named after brothers William Harris Wharton and John Austin Wharton, early leaders of the Texas Revolution, Wharton County includes 1,094 square miles of predominantly agricultural land. Wharton County seat is Wharton, situated along the Colorado River, which is an important water source and historical transportation route. As of recent census estimates, Wharton County has a population of approximately 41,000 residents. Wharton County is home to several incorporated municipalities including Wharton County, El Campo, and East Bernard. Major landmarks include the 20th Century Technology Museum in Wharton area, the historic Wharton County Courthouse built in 1889, and the Colorado River wildlife corridor. The economy traditionally centers on agriculture, petroleum production, and manufacturing. Wharton County Courthouse is located at 100 South Fulton Street in Wharton County, Texas 77488, housing the County Clerk, District Clerk, and County Judge offices. Wharton County Tax Assessor-Collector office operates from the same building complex. Wharton County Clerk maintains vital records, court documents, and land records. Wharton County's unique character stems from its blend of Czech, German, and Southern heritage, reflected in annual festivals and cultural celebrations throughout Wharton County.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

• Requests must be submitted in writing to the custodian of records at the respective law enforcement agency.
• Arrest records and mugshots are generally available through the Sheriff's Office, though some agencies may charge reasonable fees for copies as permitted under state law.

Jail & Inmate Records

• The bond and bail process in Texas allows for the release of detainees pending trial, with specific procedures outlined by Wharton County's judicial system.

• Justice Courts in Wharton County handle small claims up to $20,000, evictions, class C misdemeanors, and serve as magistrate courts for initial appearances.
• Wharton County Clerk's office provides in-person access to case files during regular business hours, typically 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays.
• Certified copies of court documents cost approximately $1 per page plus a certification fee of $5-10.
• Some courts may provide limited online docket access, though full records searches often require in-person visits or written requests.

• Many Texas counties now provide online document searches, and Wharton County residents should check www.co.Wharton area.tx.us for current online access options.
• Recording fees vary by document type and page count, typically ranging from $25-50 for standard instruments.
• Certified copies of recorded documents are available for approximately $5 for the first page and $1 for each additional page, plus applicable fees.
• Requests for copies can be made in person, by mail with prepayment, or through Wharton County's online system if available.

Vital records for this county include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates issued under state vital statistics law.

• Birth certificate fees are typically $22-23 for the first copy and approximately $22 for additional copies ordered simultaneously.
• Death certificates cost approximately $20-21 per certified copy.
• Processing times range from same-day service for in-person requests to 2-4 weeks for mail requests.
• The Texas Department of State Health Services offers online ordering through VitalChek at www.dshs.texas.gov/vs for an additional convenience fee.
• Marriage license fees are approximately $60-82 depending on whether the premarital course is completed.

Business records, licenses, and permits for this county are processed by the County Clerk and local government offices.

• This free online database, called SOSDirect, provides information on business formation documents, registered agents, officers, and entity status.
• Wharton County Chamber of Commerce, serving the business community, maintains a website at www.whartonchamber.com and provides resources for entrepreneurs and economic development information.