Federal Judicial Center Operational Status:
Due to a lapse in appropriations, the Federal Judicial Center (Center) has ceased all non-excepted activities until funding is restored.
The Center will post any changes in operational status on this web page. Please check back for updates.
You are here
Heartfield, Thad
Born September 10, 1940, in Port Arthur, TX
Died December 27, 2022, in Houston, TX
Federal Judicial Service:
Judge, U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
Nominated by William J. Clinton on January 11, 1995, to a seat vacated by Robert Manley Parker. Confirmed by the Senate on March 17, 1995, and received commission on March 17, 1995. Served as chief judge, 2003-2009. Assumed senior status on January 1, 2010. Service terminated on December 27, 2022, due to death.
Education:
St. Mary's University, Texas, B.A., 1962
St. Mary's University School of Law, Texas, J.D., 1965
Professional Career:
Died December 27, 2022, in Houston, TX
Federal Judicial Service:
Judge, U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
Nominated by William J. Clinton on January 11, 1995, to a seat vacated by Robert Manley Parker. Confirmed by the Senate on March 17, 1995, and received commission on March 17, 1995. Served as chief judge, 2003-2009. Assumed senior status on January 1, 2010. Service terminated on December 27, 2022, due to death.
Education:
St. Mary's University, Texas, B.A., 1962
St. Mary's University School of Law, Texas, J.D., 1965
Professional Career:
Assistant district attorney, Jefferson County, Texas, 1965-1966
Private practice, Beaumont, Texas, 1966-1969, 1973-1995
City attorney, Beaumont, Texas, 1969-1973
Director, Lower Neches Valley Authority, Texas, 1983-1994
Nominated to U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, October 5, 1994; no Senate vote