Senate Resolution No. 84 honors Chief Justice James T. "Jim" Worthen as he prepares to retire from the Twelfth Court of Appeals in Tyler on December 31, 2026, marking the end of his distinguished 27-year career as a jurist. Chief Justice Worthen has been a member of the court since 1999 and has served as chief justice since 2003. Prior to his judicial career, he practiced law in Tyler and has been actively involved in various legal organizations, including serving as chair for the Council of Chief Justices and participating in the Texas Bar Journal Board of Editors Committee.
The resolution acknowledges Chief Justice Worthen's significant contributions to the legal community and his dedication to the law, which have positively impacted the Twelfth Court of Appeals. It also highlights his educational background, including degrees from The University of Texas at Tyler, South Texas College of Law, and the University of Virginia, as well as his bar memberships. The Texas Senate extends its congratulations and best wishes to Chief Justice Worthen for his future endeavors, expressing high regard for his service through the preparation of an official copy of the resolution.