Tex. Stand. App. Cond., The Court's Relationship with Counsel

As amended through December 17, 2024

The Court's Relationship with Counsel

Unprofessionalism can exist only to the extent it is tolerated by the court. Because courts grant the right to practice law, they control the manner in which the practice is conducted. The right to practice requires counsel to conduct themselves in a manner compatible with the role of the appellate courts in administering justice. Likewise, no one more surely sets the tone and the pattern for the conduct of appellate lawyers than appellate judges. Judges must practice civility in order to foster professionalism in those appearing before them.

1. Inappropriate conduct will not be rewarded, while exemplary conduct will be appreciated.

2. The court will take special care not to reward departures from the record.

3. The court will be courteous, respectful, and civil to counsel.

4. The court will not disparage the professionalism or integrity of counsel based upon the conduct or reputation of counsel's client or co-counsel.

5. The court will endeavor to avoid the injustice that can result from delay after submission of a case.

6. The court will abide by the same standards of professionalism that it expects of counsel in its treatment of the facts, the law, and the arguments.

Members of the court will demonstrate respect for other judges and courts.

Tex. Stand. App. Cond., The Court's Relationship with Counsel