House Concurrent Resolution No. 138 honors the Honorable Nathan L. Hecht upon his retirement as chief justice of the Supreme Court of Texas, effective December 31, 2024, after an impressive 35-year career on the court. First elected in 1988, Justice Hecht became the longest-serving member in the court's history and was appointed chief justice in 2013, being reelected twice. He is recognized for his intellectual rigor, commitment to court reform, and efforts to modernize the Texas judicial system, including the implementation of e-filing and the simplification of appellate rules. His dedication to improving access to justice for low-income Texans and his advocacy for increased Legal Aid funding further exemplify his contributions to the legal community.
The resolution expresses the Texas Legislature's congratulations to Justice Hecht for his significant impact on Texas jurisprudence and the administration of the court system. It acknowledges his extensive service, including his roles on various legal committees and organizations, and his educational background from Yale University and Southern Methodist University. The resolution concludes with a commitment to prepare an official copy as a token of high regard from the Texas House of Representatives and Senate, reflecting the respect and appreciation for Justice Hecht's legacy in the Texas judicial system.