The bill, S.B. No. 1222, proposes amendments to the Government Code regarding the appointment of judges in statutory probate courts. It allows for the assignment of a former or retired justice of an appellate court, in addition to former or retired judges of statutory probate courts, to serve as visiting judges. The presiding judge of the statutory probate courts is granted the authority to appoint these individuals to hear cases when certain conditions arise, such as the absence or disqualification of a statutory probate judge. The bill also outlines the eligibility criteria for these former judges and justices, including requirements related to their professional conduct and experience.

Key amendments include the establishment of daily compensation for former or retired justices equal to that of a statutory probate court judge in the assigned county, and the stipulation that these individuals are not considered employees of the county where they serve. Additionally, the bill specifies that a former or retired justice must certify their willingness to refrain from practicing law in their county of residence for two years after their assignment. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 25.0022, Government Code 25.002201, Government Code 25.00255 (Government Code 25)