Opinion ID: 1755033
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 20

Heading: Concurrent Remedies

Text: Although the Constitution provides multiple methods for the removal of a judge, none is an exclusive remedy and more than one may be pursued concurrently. In the Matter of Carrillo, 542 S.W.2d 105, 108 (Tex.1976). In the instant matter, the proceedings to remove Respondent were conducted under art. V, § 1-a. Subsection 13 specifically provides that § 1-a is an alternative to, and cumulative of, the methods of removal of persons holding an office named in Paragraph A of Subsection 6. In turn, Paragraph A of Subsection 6 authorizes the removal of any justice or judge of the courts established in art. V, § 1. This latter provision clearly encompasses justices of the peace: Sec. 1. The judicial power of this State shall be vested in one Supreme Court, in one Court of Criminal Appeals, in Courts of Appeals, in District Courts, in County Courts, in Commissioners Courts, in Courts of Justices of the Peace, and in such other courts as may be provided by law. [Emphasis added]. Art. V, § 1-a does not provide for jury trials. Instead, it authorizes the Commission to request that the Supreme Court appoint a master to hear and take evidence and to report to the Commission. If, after considering the record and report of a master, the Commission finds good cause therefor, it shall issue an order of public censure or it shall recommend to a review tribunal the removal or retirement of the person in question. TEX. CONST. art. V, § 1-a(8). We conclude that these proceedings were properly brought pursuant to art. V, § 1-a.