In Texas, associate judges appointed under Family Code chapter 201, subchapter A, are granted the same judicial immunity as district judges. This means that they are protected from lawsuits arising from their official actions while presiding over family law cases, including divorce and custody matters.
Judicial immunity is important because it allows judges to perform their duties without fear of personal liability, ensuring that they can make decisions based on the law and facts rather than concerns about potential lawsuits. For parties involved in a divorce, understanding that associate judges are protected by judicial immunity underscores the importance of presenting your case effectively and persuasively during hearings.
If you have concerns about the decisions made by an associate judge, the appropriate remedy is to request a de novo hearing or file an appeal, rather than seeking to sue the judge. An experienced family law attorney can guide you through these options to address any adverse rulings.