Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB5079

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the qualifications of certain masters, magistrates, referees, and associate judges.

Impact

The legislation aims to streamline and clarify the qualifications for judicial appointments within the state by establishing consistent minimum criteria. The impact is expected to enhance the judicial selection process by allowing a wider range of lawyers to qualify for these appointments, which could lead to increased diversity on the bench. By mandating that candidates hold a valid license for a specified duration, the state is also ensuring that those appointed have sufficient legal experience to manage judicial responsibilities effectively.

Summary

House Bill 5079 proposes amendments to the Government Code, specifically targeting the qualifications required for individuals appointed as masters, magistrates, referees, and associate judges in Texas. Under this bill, the proposed minimum requirement for appointment varies: generally, a candidate must have been licensed to practice law in Texas for at least five years; however, for certain specific positions, this requirement is reduced to a minimum of two years. This differentiation is intended to broaden the pool of potential candidates while maintaining a baseline of legal expertise necessary for these judicial roles.

Contention

While proponents of HB 5079 argue that the changes will facilitate more efficient judicial appointments and potentially address existing shortages in certain judicial roles, critics may express concerns about the implications of lowering qualification standards. There could be apprehension that diminishing the required legal experience might affect the quality of judicial decision-making and the integrity of the legal process. Thus, the bill may spur debate around the balance between accessibility to judicial roles and the necessity for robust legal qualifications.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 54. Masters; Magistrates; Referees; Associate Judges
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 652
    • Section: 853
    • Section: 872
    • Section: 902
    • Section: 972
    • Section: 1173
    • Section: 1353
    • Section: 1501
    • Section: 1804
    • Section: 1851
    • Section: 1953
    • Section: 2202
    • Section: 2402
    • Section: 2602
    • Section: 2702
    • Section: 2802
    • Section: 2807

Companion Bills

TX SB1576

Identical Relating to the qualifications of certain masters, magistrates, referees, and associate judges.

Previously Filed As

TX HB464

Relating to the creation of criminal law magistrates for Grayson County.

TX SB1973

Relating to criminal history record information for certain special master, magistrate, referee, or other court official applicants appointed or employed by state judges.

TX HB2272

Relating to associate judges and Department of Family and Protective Services representation in child protection court proceedings.

TX HB1502

Relating to required training regarding trauma-informed care for certain judges and attorneys.

TX HB4638

Relating to the appointment and duties of an associate judge in the 229th Judicial District.

TX HB1627

Relating to implicit bias training for justices and judges of state courts, judicial officers, certain court personnel, and attorneys licensed to practice law in this state.

TX SB1173

Relating to the appointment of criminal law hearing officers and of a special presiding judge and associate judges for certain courts.

TX SB2491

Relating to qualifications for a retired judge's appointment as a visiting judge to a constitutional county court.

TX HB2268

Relating to matters referred to an associate judge under the Family Code.

TX HB4088

Relating to required training regarding trauma-informed care for certain judges.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.