2026 Texas General Election

Tom Nowak

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Buket Urgen

Tom is from Poland. He attended North Mesquite High School. He has a bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Texas A&M University and a Juris Doctor degree from Baylor University Law School. He lives with his wife and two children in McKinney.

Governor Abbott Appoints Nowak To 366th Judicial District Court

Tom Nowak is currently judge of the 366th Judicial District Court in Collin County. He was appointed in October 2019 to fill the unexpired term of retiring Judge Ray Wheless, was elected in November 2020 to serve the remainder of that term, and is serving his first term.

Nowak to Succeed Wheless as Collin County District Judge

Board certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Legal Experience

As of July 22, 2026, Tom Nowak’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Judicial Administration

Judicial Philosophy

Ethics & Conduct

Enjoys helping students at mock trial competitions from high school to law school, fostering an appreciation for the justice system.

Community Involvement

- District judges manage Texas district courts, which are trial courts with general jurisdiction, and have exclusive authority over felony cases. A judge may be presiding over a civil, criminal, juvenile, or special court. They also share jurisdiction with Texas county courts.
- Texas has over 470 district courts, each presided over by a single judge. Some courts cover multiple counties, while others are assigned to single counties based on population size.
- District judges are elected through partisan elections for four-year terms. Candidates must be between 25 and 75 years old, have lived in the district for at least 2 years, and be licensed lawyers with at least 4 years' experience.
- The annual salary for district judges ranges from $175,000 to $245,500, depending on years of service.

Presides over a trial court with general jurisdiction. 