Ben is from Collin County, Texas. He attended Boston University School of Law. He has a Bachelor of Science in Communication from Boston University College of Communication and a juris doctorate from Boston University School of Law. He lives with his wife, Rebecca, and their two sons in Collin County.

Ben Smith is a was first appointed to the 380th District Court by Governor Rick Perry in August 2012. Following his initial appointment, he was elected to full terms in 2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024. 

Has 20 years of legal experience, including as a district judge, prosecutor, and private attorney.

- Has 20 years of legal experience, including as a district judge, prosecutor, and private attorney.

Legal Experience

As a district judge, reduced case backlogs and implemented innovative court procedures to enhance judicial transparency.

- As a district judge, reduced case backlogs and implemented innovative court procedures to enhance judicial transparency.

Judicial Administration

As of January 22, 2026, Ben Smith’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Judicial Philosophy

Ethics & Conduct

Community Involvement

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Ben Smith

Rafael Perez

Walter Ley

- In Texas, appeals from district and county courts, except death penalty cases, go to one of 14 intermediate courts of appeal.
- There are a total of 80 appellate court seats, distributed variably among the courts based on population across the 14 districts.
- Courts with more than three justices decide cases in rotating panels of three.
- Justices are elected in partisan elections for six-year terms.
- The yearly salary for a Court of Appeals justice in Texas is between $192,500 and $255,050 based on the total number of years they have served.

Hears appeals on orders and decisions made by lower trial courts.

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Texas Court of Appeals Justice, Division 5, Republican Primary

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