Rule 255.Change of Venue by Consent
Last verified June 28, 2026
Full Text of Rule 255
Plain-English Summary
Rule 255 is the simplest venue change. On the written consent of the parties, filed with the papers of the case, the court may transfer the case for trial to the court of any other county that has jurisdiction of the subject matter, by an order entered on the minutes. No showing of prejudice is needed — the agreement is enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can parties agree to move a Texas case to another county?
Yes. Rule 255 lets the court transfer the case on the parties' written consent to any other county with jurisdiction of the subject matter.
Does a venue agreement between the parties have to be in writing?
Yes. Rule 255 requires the parties' written consent, filed with the papers of the case, before the court can transfer the case to another county.
Does the court have to issue a formal order to change venue by agreement?
Yes. Rule 255 requires the transfer to happen by an order entered on the court's minutes — the parties' consent authorizes the move, but the order is what makes it official.