In his appeal, James Broadnax, who also wants a new trial, included a signed confession by his cousin saying he committed the 2008 Garland murders.
Courts
Stay up to date on Texas courts with in-depth coverage of major rulings, judicial elections, criminal justice, and the judges shaping state law from The Texas Tribune.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
Texas jails aren’t meeting deadlines to free inmates, costing some counties thousands in settlements
The state does not track the prevalence or provide guidance on the issue, leaving inmates to languish in jail and eventually sue counties for damages.
Posted in
Courts
Texas’ drag show restrictions take effect after years of court challenges
The law prohibits sexually explicit drag performances on public property or in front of children.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
Ex-Uvalde schools police chief sues CBP, seeking agents’ testimony in his criminal trial
Prosecutors and attorneys for Pete Arrendondo, who faces charges over the shooting’s botched response, have repeatedly requested U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents to testify. The agency has refused.
Posted in
2026 Texas Elections
Dallas Democrats drop lawsuit seeking to count primary ballots cast during extended voting hours
Dallas and Williamson counties switched from centralized voting sites to neighborhood precincts in the primary, confusing voters and prompting lower courts to extend some polling site hours.
Posted in
Courts
Legal fight over SpaceX beach closures hits Texas Supreme Court
The justices are considering the constitutionality of a 2013 law in a lawsuit brought by environmentalist and indigenous groups against the General Land Office and Cameron County.
Posted in
2026 Texas Elections
Mayes Middleton, Chip Roy advance to runoff for GOP attorney general nomination
With a self-funded ad surge, Middleton overcame Roy’s initial frontrunner status, taking a commanding lead but falling short of the majority needed to win outright.
Posted in
Hill Country floods
Camp Mystic can’t alter flood-damaged area while civil suit proceeds, judge rules
Cabins, grounds and other buildings hit by the July 4 flood on the Guadalupe River cannot be renovated or removed, according to the order.
Posted in
2026 Texas Elections
In Dallas County, frustration and confusion after GOP forces switch to precinct-based voting
Countywide vote centers weren’t used for election day. The ensuing disorder spurred an unresolved legal battle.
Posted in
2026 Texas Elections
For Texas’ highest courts, two Democratic races decided, one GOP race goes to runoff
Maggie Ellis and Kristen Hawkins win Texas Supreme Court Dem primaries. John Messinger wins his GOP race for Court of Criminal Appeals, while Alison Fox and Thomas Smith head to a runoff.
