Rule 283.Duty of Officer Attending Jury
Last verified June 28, 2026
Full Text of Rule 283
Plain-English Summary
Rule 283 keeps the jury insulated. The officer in charge must not make or permit any communication to the jury, except to ask whether they have agreed on a verdict, unless the court orders otherwise. And before the verdict is rendered, the officer must not tell anyone the state of the jury's deliberations or the verdict they have reached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the bailiff talk to the jury during deliberations in Texas?
Only to ask if they have agreed on a verdict, unless the court orders otherwise. Rule 283 also bars the officer from disclosing the deliberations or verdict before it is rendered.
Can a Texas bailiff tell others how the jury's deliberations are going?
No. Rule 283 bars the officer in charge of the jury from telling anyone the state of the jury's deliberations, or the verdict reached, before the verdict is rendered.
Can a Texas court order let the bailiff communicate more with the jury?
Yes. Rule 283 bars the officer from making or permitting communication with the jury beyond asking if they have agreed on a verdict, unless the court orders otherwise.