Justice Jimmy Blacklock Named Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court

 Governor Greg Abbott announced Monday the appointment of Justice Jimmy Blacklock as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas. Blacklock, who has served on the state’s highest court since January 2018, will assume his new role following the retirement of Chief Justice Nathan L. Hecht, the longest-serving member in the court’s history.

Blacklock, a native of Houston, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from The University of Texas at Austin and a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School. His legal career includes clerking for Judge Jerry Smith of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals and practicing civil litigation in Houston and Austin. He also served six years in the Texas Attorney General’s Office, working on significant cases related to the Affordable Care Act, religious liberty, and pro-life issues.

Chief Justice Hecht, who retired on Dec. 31 after 36 years on the court, including a decade as chief justice, leaves a legacy of service and judicial leadership. Blacklock acknowledged his predecessor’s contributions, stating, “Chief Justice Hecht leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of service to the Court and to the People of Texas.”

Justice Blacklock’s term as chief justice will run through Dec. 31, 2026. Governor Abbott will officially swear him in during a private ceremony on Tuesday.

“Our job at the Court is to apply the law fairly and impartially,” Blacklock said. “My colleagues and I are committed to defending the rule of law and pursuing equal justice under the law for all Texans.”

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