1. (a) A judge ordering a change of venue under this chapter may, with the written consent of the defendant, the defendant's attorney, and the attorney representing the state:

   1. (1) maintain the original case number on the court's docket;
   2. (2) preside over the case; and
   3. (3) use the services of the court reporter, the court coordinator, and the clerk of the court of original venue.

2. (b) If a judge takes the actions described by Subsection (a):

   1. (1) the court shall use the courtroom facilities and any other services or facilities of the judicial district or county to which venue is changed;
   2. (2) the jury, if required, must consist of residents of the judicial district or county to which venue is changed; and

   3. (3) notwithstanding Article 31A.051, the clerk of the court of original venue shall:

      1. (A) maintain the original papers of the case, including the defendant's bail bond or personal bond, if any;
      2. (B) make the papers described by Paragraph (A) available for trial; and
      3. (C) act as the clerk in the case.

Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 1.001, eff. January 1, 2025.