Frequently Asked Questions

1. "Can the City Attorney represent me? I can't afford a lawyer."
The City Attorney's Office is prohibited by Sec. 74 of the City Charter of the City of Abilene from engaging in the outside practice of law. We suggest you utilize one of the lawyer locating service links above or the State Bar of Texas referral service. If you do not believe you can afford market rate fees then we suggest you contact a reduced fee service. In the Abilene area, this is West Texas Legal Services at www.unitedwayabilene.org or 325-677-8591.

2. "My neighbor has old cars sitting around his house and he won't move them, what can I do?"
This situation may be a violation of City Code Article XII. You should the Abilene Police Department and they will make a determination under the Ordinance.

3. "My neighbor has a dog that never stops barking, what can I do?"
This may be a violation of City Code Sec. 6-6 Noise. You should contact the Animal Control Office at 325-698-0085 to make a complaint.

4. "What can the City do about excessive garbage and trash accumulating at a residence?"
If you believe a situation represents a health hazard to the general public you should contact the City of Abilene Environmental Health Office at 325-690-6709 for more information.

5. "There is a vacant house in my neighborhood that isn't being mowed and vagrants are living there, what can I do?"
For the weeds and tall grass you can contact the Weed Control Office at 325-676-6435 to make a complaint. If you believe the home is substandard you can contact the City of Abilene Building Inspections Office at 325-676-6273.

6. "Does the City Attorney handle criminal cases?"
The City Attorney prosecutes all traffic citations and Class C misdemeanors received within the city limits of Abilene, as well as any violations of the City Code. The District Attorney handles all other criminal misdemeanor and felony prosecutions within the City of Abilene and Taylor County and may be reached at 325-674-1261.

7. "Can I distribute advertisements or flyers by placing them on cars or houses?'
No. If the owner does not consent, this is a violation of Chapter 3 of the City Code and may result in a citation and fine of up to $500.00.

8. "I am not getting my child support payments, what can I do?"
You should contact a private family law attorney or the Office of the Attorney General, Child Support Enforcement Division at www.oag.state.tx.us or locally at 3444 N. 1st St./ 325-672-4480.

9. "I am afraid my ex-husband/ex-boyfriend is going to hurt me because he is always threatening me, what can I do?"
You may need a protective order, counseling and/or shelter. You should contact either a private attorney, the District Attorney Protective Order hotline at 325-674-1296, West Texas Legal Services at 325-677-8591or the Noah Project Crisis Line at 325-676-7107. One of these organizations should be able to advise and assist you.

10. "I think my landlord is treating me unfairly, do I have any rights?"
Yes, you do. You may review the Texas Property Code Sections dealing with Landlord/Tenant relationships on-line at:
www.capitol.state.tx.us

There may be serious legal consequences in trying to resolve any dispute. We encourage you to contact a private attorney for legal advice. The Justices of the Peace have pamphlets available on renters' rights. You may also contact The Abilene Apartment Association at 695-7431.