TX SB1222

Expands eligibility for visiting judge assignments in statutory probate courts to include former or retired justices of appellate courts, in addition to current and former statutory probate court judges

Allows the presiding judge of statutory probate courts to assign former or retired appellate court justices to hear cases when a probate judge requests assistance, is absent, disabled, disqualified, recused, or when docket conditions require additional judges

Sets compensation for assigned former or retired justices at the same daily rate as statutory probate court judges in the county where they are assigned

Requires former or retired appellate court justices to meet the same eligibility requirements as former probate judges, including at least 72 months of active service, no removal from office, no public reprimand or censure, and completion of annual educational requirements for statutory probate court judges

Prohibits former or retired justices assigned in their county of residence from practicing law in that county's courts or accepting guardian appointments for a two-year period