What is the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals?
A Brief Overview
The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals is the highest criminal court in the state of Texas. It is one of only two state supreme courts in the United States that have separate jurisdiction over criminal cases. The other is the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals.
The court is made up of nine judges who are elected statewide for six-year terms. The chief justice is the presiding judge of the court and is also elected statewide for a six-year term.
The court has jurisdiction over all felony cases in Texas, as well as certain misdemeanor cases. It can also review death sentences and sentences of life imprisonment.
A Bit of History
The court was established in 1876. It was originally known as the Court of Appeals. In 1981, the court's name was changed to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.
What Does the Court Do?
The court hears appeals from lower courts in Texas. It can affirm or reverse the decisions of lower courts. It can also grant or deny petitions for writs of habeas corpus.
Some Interesting Facts About the Court
- The court is located in Austin, Texas.
- The court's seal features the state seal of Texas, as well as the words "Texas Court of Criminal Appeals."
- The court's website is
https://www.txcourts.gov/cca - The court's Twitter account is @TX_CCA.
So, What's the Big Deal About This Court?
Well, for one thing, it's the highest court in Texas for criminal cases. That means that its decisions are final. If you're convicted of a crime in Texas, and you appeal your case to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, that's your last shot.
The court also plays a vital role in the development of Texas law. Its decisions are often cited by lower courts in Texas, and by courts in other states.
In Conclusion
The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals is a powerful and important institution. It is the highest court in Texas for criminal cases, and its decisions have a significant impact on the law in Texas and throughout the United States.
If you're ever convicted of a crime in Texas, you may have the opportunity to appeal your case to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. It's a long shot, but it's worth a try.
And Now, For a Few Humorous Observations About the Court
- The court is located in Austin, which is the capital of Texas. This means that the judges have to put up with the heat and humidity of the Texas summers. I'm not sure how they do it.
- The court's website is pretty straightforward. It's easy to navigate and find the information you're looking for. However, I did find one page that was a little confusing. It was titled "Rules of Court." I'm not sure if that's a rule or a suggestion.
- The court's Twitter account is a good source of information about the court's activities. However, I did notice that the judges don't tweet very often. Maybe they're too busy reading briefs and writing opinions.
I hope you enjoyed this lengthy post about the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
P.S. If you're ever convicted of a crime in Texas, I hope you have a good lawyer.