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Justice Sullivan grew up in Austin, Texas. He attended Rice University, and obtained his law degree from Harvard. 

James is the General Counsel for the Office of the Governor. He works at the Office of the Governor, where he has provided legal advice and rendered opinions on consequential legal issues in Texas.

Governor Abbott Appoints Blacklock As Chief Justice, Sullivan As ...

James P. Sullivan is a Republican incumbent who was appointed to the Texas Supreme Court by Governor Greg Abbott on January 7, 2025.

As an appellate litigator in private practice, researched, drafted, and filed appellate briefs, and provided oral and written defense on behalf of clients in state and federal courts.

- As an appellate litigator in private practice, researched, drafted, and filed appellate briefs, and provided oral and written defense on behalf of clients in state and federal courts.

Legal Experience

As of January 22, 2026, James P. Sullivan’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Judicial Administration

Emphasizes "Bold, Relentless, Conservative Judging."

Advocates for a "sturdy" judiciary that does not back down when freedoms are at stake

- Emphasizes "Bold, Relentless, Conservative Judging."
- Advocates for a "sturdy" judiciary that does not back down when freedoms are at stake

Judicial Philosophy

Ethics & Conduct

Community Involvement

James P. Sullivan

- The Supreme Court of Texas is the court of last resort for civil matters, including juvenile delinquency cases.
- The Texas Supreme Court is made up of nine justices. All nine positions are elected, with a term of office of six years and no term limits.
- Decisions are made collectively by majority vote, and a justice writes the majority opinion.
- The Texas Supreme Court is the only state supreme court in the United States in which refusing to hear a lower court’s cases implies approval of the court’s decision, thus rendering it precedent.
- Justices must be at least 35 years old, a citizen of Texas, licensed to practice law in Texas, and must have practiced law (or have been a lawyer and a judge of a court of record together) for at least ten years
- Court of Criminal Appeals judges earn a salary of $210,000 to $264,600, depending on how long they have served in office.