Rule 15.Writs and Process
Last verified June 28, 2026
In one sentenceRule 15 sets the form of every writ and process: styled “The State of Texas,” directed to any sheriff or constable, returnable the Monday after twenty days from service, and dated and attested by the clerk under the court's seal.
Full Text of Rule 15
The style of all writs and process shall be “The State of Texas;” and unless otherwise specially provided by law or these rules every such writ and process shall be directed to any sheriff or any constable within the State of Texas, shall be made returnable on the Monday next after expiration of twenty days from the date of service thereof, and shall be dated and attested by the clerk with the seal of the court impressed thereon; and the date of issuance shall be noted thereon.
End
Plain-English Summary
Rule 15 fixes the form a writ or process must take. Each one is styled “The State of Texas” and, unless a law or rule says otherwise, is directed to any sheriff or constable in the state.
The timing and the authentication are set too. The writ is returnable on the Monday after twenty days from the date it is served, and the clerk dates it, attests it, and impresses the court's seal, noting the date it was issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are writs styled in Texas?
Every writ and process is styled “The State of Texas.”
When is process returnable under Rule 15?
On the Monday after twenty days from the date of service.
Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the
Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 15), published by the Texas Judicial Branch (txcourts.gov).
Promulgated by the Supreme Court of Texas. The plain-English summary is original and draws on official sources. Last verified June 28, 2026. ·
Official source
Also known as: writs and processstyle of processThe State of Texasreturnable Mondayform of a writTRCP 15