Rule 270.Additional Testimony
Last amended April 1, 1984 · Last verified June 28, 2026
Full Text of Rule 270
Plain-English Summary
Rule 270 gives the court discretion to reopen the evidence. When it clearly appears necessary to the due administration of justice, the court may permit additional evidence to be offered at any time. The one firm limit is in jury trials: no evidence on a controversial matter may be received after the jury returns its verdict.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Texas court reopen the evidence during trial?
Yes. Rule 270 lets the court allow additional evidence at any time when clearly necessary to the due administration of justice — though in a jury case, not on a controversial matter after the verdict.
Is there a deadline in Texas for offering additional evidence under Rule 270?
Not a fixed one. Rule 270 lets the court permit additional evidence at any time when clearly necessary to the due administration of justice. In a jury case, though, the court cannot admit evidence on a controversial matter after the jury returns its verdict.
Does the Rule 270 limit on post-verdict evidence apply to bench trials?
No. Rule 270 states its limit on evidence — barring a controversial matter after the verdict — for a jury case. Since a bench trial has no jury verdict, the court's general discretion to permit additional evidence at any time controls.