Judge Marc Brown Appointed to 14th Court of Appeals

I just received word that 180th District Court Judge Marc Brown has been appointed by Governor Rick Perry to the 14th Court of Appeals.

It is an outstanding choice by the Governor, but it is bittersweet for those of us around the Harris County Criminal Justice Center who have gotten to practice in front of Judge Brown.  Although only having been on the Bench for the past few years, he quickly became one of the most highly respected judges in the building.

Most members of the Defense Bar are dubious when a prosecutor leaves the District Attorney's Office and immediately takes a Bench, but Judge Brown had an excellent reputation coming out of prosecution that helped him win a tough election in 2010.  Since taking the Bench, he has been one of the favorites of both prosecutors and defense attorneys with his even-handed demeanor, courtesy and knowledge of the law.  Time and again, Judge Brown has shown that he was not "a prosecutor in a black robe" as he followed the letter of the law without fail.

The 14th Court of Appeals gain is most definitely the CJC's loss, but the promotion couldn't be more well deserved.

It is my understanding that he will take over in his new position at the end of this week or the beginning of next week.  There is no word on who may be replacing him in the 180th.

Congratulations to Judge Brown!

Marc Brown takes the Bench

Big Congratulations to Marc Brown who took the bench in the 180th District Court today. I wasn't at the CJC today for the swearing in ceremony, but I was there in spirit.

I know Judge Brown is going to do a great job on the bench, and I look forward to trying cases in front of him for many years to come!