Moore, who has overseen some of the most controversial cases in Howard County during his tenure, announced this week he would bring his more than 20-year run as district judge to a close next year.
With still nearly a month before candidates in the contest can officially file their candidacy with the state office, Yeats said running for the position was something he’s been considering for some time.
“My friends and colleagues know that this is something I have considered for quite some time,” said Yeats. “In visiting with Judge Moore over the past few months, he indicated to me and others that he does not plan to seek re-election to the office. I believe I have the qualifications and experience to succeed Judge Moore as district judge.
“I have practiced law for 27 years, and have a wide range of experience in civil and criminal law. I have tried more than 100 jury trials in courthouses throughout West Texas, and I am a certified mediator and have mediated well over one hundred disputes as well.”
Yeats, husband to Tammy Watkins Yeats and father of two children, Ryan and Ethan, graduated from Forsan High School in 1975 and Howard College in 1977. He then attended Texas Tech University in 1979 and graduated from Texas Tech University School of Law in 1982.
Upon his graduation from law school, Yeats worked with law firm Weaver, Ferguson & Yeats from 1982 until 1985, and then from 1985 until 1988 as Howard County Attorney. He currently operates his own legal business, the Law Office of Timothy D. Yeats, P.C.
Yeats said he will be filing an application in early December for placement on the Republican ballot for the March 2010 primary election
“I look forward to the primary election, as well as the opportunity to serve the residents of the 118th Judicial District as district judge,” he added.
Contact Staff Writer Thomas Jenkins at 263-7331 ext. 232 or by e-mail at
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
