Popular Texas Judge Stepping Down for Money Reasons

Judge Gary Coley Jr. has been serving for 24 years in McLennan County’s justice system as an example of both innovation and integrity. Coley co-founded the Veterans Treatment Court and he led a team of the Heart of Texas Human Trafficking Coalition. Coley’s judicial career has been one of community impact. Unfortunately, on February 16, Coley will be stepping down from his leadership role on the 74th State District Court bench. 

Coley was elected to his position through December 31st, 2028, so why would he be stepping down from the bench? Well, to put it quite simply, the primary reason he said is economics. He said that Texas’ state district judges are ranked 49th in salary out of all 50 states, and he needed to make a career choice that would better provide for his family despite loving his current position as a judge of the juvenile court. 

Coley legacy is certainly one he can be proud of even though he will be leaving the elected position early. He put a lot of effort into fighting human trafficking, and he has been a mentor for the youth of McLennan and many other areas of Central Texas.
 

Coley will be moving into the private sector where he will work in mediation, arbitration, and private judging. He is well respected by his peers and colleagues, and his presence will be greatly missed. As McLennan County Judge Scott Felton said, “He is a good man, and he will be missed.” A straightforward statement that describes the quality of his character.