Story Archive

Surprise Resignation

Judge Bill McLeod’s resignation from the Harris County, Texas, Court at Law came as a surprise — especially to him. When he announced that he intended to seek election as chief justice of the state supreme court, he didn’t realize that under the Texas Constitution, a judge automatically resigns his current job by declaring candidacy for higher office. “It’s over 87,000 words. It’s the second largest state constitution in our Union, and I’m sorry I didn’t have it down,” McLeod said. He asked the county Commissioners Court to re-appoint him to his seat until a special election could be held, but the commissioners declined. Lina Hidalgo, Harris County judge, said that the commissioners would then have the power to remove him — and that would deny him the independence a judge should have. The commissioners selected someone else. (AC/Houston Chronicle) ...I think I missed the part of the maxim that says ignorance of the law is an excuse when the law is really, really long.