Judicial Advisory Council (Tex.)

The Texas Judicial Advisory Council was established in 1989 upon the creation of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) (House Bill 2335, 71st Legislature, Regular Session, chapter 785, §1.12). The council advises the director of the Community Justice Assistance Division of TDCJ and the Texas Board of Criminal Justice on matters of interest to the judiciary, specifically including all matters affecting the administration of Community Supervision and Corrections Departments. The Community Justice Assistance Division, previously the Texas Adult Probation Commission, oversees local Community Supervision and Corrections Departments by setting minimum standards for their programs, facilities, and services as well as certifying and funding their works.

The chief justice of the Texas Supreme Court and the presiding judge of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals each appoint six members to the Judicial Advisory Council. Until 1993, members served at the will of the appointing judge. Currently, members serve staggered six-year terms with the terms of four of the members expiring on September 1 of each odd-numbered year. The chief justice and the presiding judge jointly appoint the council's chair. The council itself elects the vice-chair and secretary from its membership. The Judicial Advisory Council supervises five committees, each chaired by a member of the council: Field Services, Internal Operation, Legislative, Program Services, and Special Recognition.