Texas has had seven constitutions, which eventually established the framework of government in Texas today. The Constitution of 1876 is the current constitution. It states that "the powers of the government of the State of Texas shall be divided into three distinct departments." These departments, or branches, are the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The constitution also includes a bill of rights and hundreds of amendments to keep up with the changing times.

System of Courts The Texas Constitution has set up several different kinds of courts to make sure that the rights of citizens are protected. Trial courts hear both civil and criminal cases. Civil cases, such as personal injuries and uncollected taxes, comprise most of these cases. Criminal cases include burglary, theft, and more serious crimes. Trial courts exist on three levels—municipal courts (or justice of the peace in smaller communities), county courts, and district courts. Appeals courts hear cases in which the losing party in a trial court disagrees with the decision of the trial court. There are also three levels of appeals courts in Texas.