Big judicial moves are happening in Texas as Governor Greg Abbott has designated Michael Davis, hitherto serving as the Judge of the 369th Judicial District Court, to fill Place 3 on the Twelfth Court of Appeals—a role kicking off on November 1, 2025. His term on the appeals court is slated to wrap up at the end of 2026, unless reelected prior to term completion.
The Governor's office announced last week Davis' appointment to the appellate position, where he brings a diverse career in law and academia to the bench, currently an adjunct professor at the Texas Tech University School of Law, involved in a handful of legal organizations, including the State Bar of Texas and the Federalist Society, and his resume boasts a past tenure in the United States Air Force from 1995 until 2001 until he was honorably discharged, it’s an eclectic mix designed to appeal to a broad constituency as he ascends to his new position.
Davis' experience is varied and extends beyond the courtroom and into the community; not only does he serve as board chair for the Crisis Center of Anderson and Cherokee Counties, but he also maintains active involvement with a number of local bar associations and even extends his commitment to service through his past presidency of the Rotary Club of Palestine.
With education credentials spanning from an associate degree in criminal justice to a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and philosophy and culminating with a Juris Doctor from TTU School of Law, Davis' comprehensive background adds depth to his new appellate role—his term, which is on calendar to cease come the dawn of 2027 unless a successful election bid says otherwise, will be one to observe for its judicial impact in the Texas legal theater.
According to the Office of the Texas Governor, this move underscores the emphasis on a judiciary that is seasoned and versatile, able to draw from a well of experience that spans front-line legal service, thoughtful academic contribution, and boots-on-the-ground community engagement.
