Red Wave in Texas Appellate Courts, Five Flipped in Democratic Strongholds
What happened: Voters in Texas ushered in a historic shift, electing Republican judges statewide and flipping appellate courts in traditionally Democratic strongholds. Read more
Remind me: Texas has 15 appellate courts with a total of 83 justices.
- Every six years, majorities on the urban courts are up for election. 2024 was one such year and the next will be 2030.
- Republicans won all seats up for election on the 1st, 4th, 5th, 13th and 14th Courts of Appeals, securing majorities in regions of the state that are otherwise regarded as Democrat strongholds–Houston, San Antonio, Dallas and South Texas.
Worth noting: Because the Texas Supreme Court and Court of Criminal Appeals hear a limited number of cases each year, the intermediate appellate courts are the final stop for some of the most consequential issues in our state.
TLR Thoughts: The 2024 judicial election results mark a historic shift in Texas appellate courts. TLR’s sister organization, Judicial Fairness PAC, played a strong role in helping educate voters about these important races. These victories signal a strong demand for rule-of-law judges committed to Texas values, safeguarding public safety and ensuring accountability across the state’s judiciary.
Americans See Link Between Attorney Involvement in Claims and Higher Auto Insurance Costs: IRC Report
What happened: A recent report has drawn a connection between widespread attorney advertising for auto accident claims and increasing auto insurance costs across the U.S. Read more
Tell me more: The Insurance Research Council (IRC) surveyed consumers nationwide to assess opinions on attorney advertising’s impact on auto insurance.
- Findings show a growing link between lawyer ads for accident claims and the increased frequency and cost of claims, which contribute to rising insurance premiums.
By the numbers: 60% of respondents agreed that attorney advertising increases the number of auto claims, up from 55% in 2021.
- 52% felt these ads increase their auto insurance costs, a rise from 45% in 2021.
- Awareness of third-party litigation financing is also on the rise, with most respondents favoring transparency when outside investors are involved in litigation.
TLR Thoughts: Plaintiff’s attorneys have created a culture of litigation in Texas, where even the most minor event can lead to a lawsuit, regardless of who was at fault. Texas can’t sustain an environment where lawsuits are the rule, not the exception. The Texas Legislature should consider the impact rampant attorney ads are having on litigation rates and insurance costs for Texas families and employers.
Many Judges Earn Less Than Lawyers: Texas Judiciary Asks for 30% Raise
What happened: As the 2025 Texas legislative session approaches, the Texas judiciary is requesting a 30% base pay raise to help fill vacancies and retain judges. Read more
Remind me: The Legislature declined to increase judicial pay in 2023. The last time judges got a raise was 12 years ago.
Tell me more: Texas ranks 49th in the nation for judicial pay, and many judges cite salary as a key factor in their decision to retire.
- The issue is particularly urgent as courts struggle to fill vacancies, with some areas experiencing multiple unfilled judicial positions.
TLR Thoughts: It’s clear that Texas’ judicial pay levels are hurting the state’s ability to attract and retain competent and experienced judges. Without adequate pay, Texas risks further strain on its courts and delays in case resolution, both of which can impact public safety and the rule of law.