On Monday, Governor Greg Abbott made his selection for the 497th Judicial District Court in Harris County, opting for experienced legal professional Peyton Peebles to fill the position. This appointment, outlined in a recent press release from the Governor's office, specifies that Peebles is to hold office until the end of 2026, or until a new appointee is to take over.
Peebles boasts a history replete with legal experience, having been a partner at Shellist Peebles McAlister, LLP, as well as running his own shop, Peebles Law Firm, PLLC. Prior to stepping into these roles, his career trajectory included positions of leadership and advisory as general counsel and staff attorney for the Harris County Office of Court Management. Moreover, he has been in the trenches as an assistant district attorney within the same county.
Peebles has been an active member of various bar associations, including the State Bar of Texas and the Texas District & County Attorneys Association. His ties to legal defense are evidenced by his membership in the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and the DUI Defense Lawyers Association, as mentioned by the Governor's office.
Outside the sphere of direct legal practice, Peebles has demonstrated a commitment to shaping future legal minds through his work as a guest presenter and coach for the Kingwood High School Criminal Justice Program. His academic accomplishments include a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Florida and a Juris Doctor from the University of Houston Law Center.
