Support from Family
“When Ray received the call asking if he would interview for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas, I encouraged him to say yes. Not because it would be easy—but because I know how much he has to offer.
Anything Ray commits to, he gives his whole heart and more. I see it every day: early mornings, late nights, careful preparation, and a deep sense of responsibility to help others. Whether he is preparing for a trial or serving others, Ray brings the same level of care, discipline, and purpose to everything he does.
Our family is proud of him, we believe in him, and he has our full and wholehearted support.”
“There are so many things I admire about my dad, but at the root of it all, it’s his servant’s heart that I admire most. From a young age, my dad taught us that giving back to others isn’t optional, it’s a responsibility. He is the most humble, most hardworking, and most generous with his time.
Growing up, no matter how busy he was, he never missed what mattered most. He was at every game, every recital, and every family dinner. He has always been there, always listened, and always supported us. That same commitment & steady presence is what makes him a trusted attorney & respected leader.
Beyond being the best attorney, he is also the best father and the most devoted grandfather. I have seen firsthand the integrity, compassion, and heart he brings to everything he does. I’m so proud to be his daughter, and there’s no one I’m prouder to endorse for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas.”
“Throughout my father’s life, his faith has been a steady guide, shaping how he leads, how he serves, and how he treats others. As a family, we’ve seen how his devotion to God grounds him in humility and wisdom, especially when decisions are difficult or the stakes are high.
We’ve also had the privilege of seeing the man behind the profession. No matter how demanding his work has been, he has always made time for family, offering encouragement, guidance, and unwavering support. He leads by example in our home, showing us what it means to live with integrity and purpose.
That same foundation carries through every role he fills: as an attorney, a father, and a grandfather. He leads with integrity, listens with care, and consistently puts people first.
We are proud to stand with him and wholeheartedly endorse him for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas.”
“Ray Thomas is an extraordinary man of faith, family, and service. Since I’ve joined the family, he has been the perfect role model for what it means to be a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is man of integrity and leader who continuously uplifts those around him. He lives by the principle “to whom much is given, much is required”, with his love and service to others being the greatest gifts he shares. I am blessed and honored to call him my father-in-law.
His professional experience and success combined with his servant attitude toward his community make him the best candidate for President of the State Bar of Texas. He strives for greatness and commits all his effort and time into doing the best job no matter how big or small the task. The State Bar of Texas will be proud to call him their President.”
“From the very first day I met Ray Thomas, he welcomed me with open arms, warm smile, a big hug, and a light in his eyes that immediately made me feel at home. From that moment, I knew his family was one I wanted to be part of. I felt welcomed, loved, and truly supported. Today, I can say with deep gratitude how blessed I feel to be part of the Thomas family. The love, daily support shown through actions and gestures, and the sense of peace they have given me have made me feel completely at home. The values of family, respect, love, and serving the person beside you are values that define them—and values that make me proud to belong to this family.
Those values begin with Ray as a father and as a person. He is someone I admire, respect, and look up to. His unconditional love, integrity, and genuine care for others are evident in every role he takes on—within his family, his community, and his profession.
For these reasons, I truly believe he is an outstanding candidate for President of the State Bar of Texas. He leads with heart, serves with humility, and does the right thing without expecting anything in return.”
Support from Across Texas
The State Bar of Texas needs a bold leader , who cares about the rule of law and protects the lawyers and judges who defend it. Because he is that leader, I am excited to support Ray Thomas for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas.
When Ray was the TYLA president, I had the good fortune to be Chair of the SBOT Board of Directors. We learned that appointed criminal defense lawyers were not being adequately compensated for their representation of accused citizens who could not afford a defense. We convinced the Texas Supreme Court and Court of Criminal Appeals to adopt orders that directed trial and commissioners’ courts to pay increased fees to insure the representation the Constitution requires. Ray fought that fight for Texas lawyers and I was proud to be part of it.
Ray is a real lawyer with an impressive track record. When a wrong needs to righted, I call Ray; when I need wise advice, I call Ray; and when a lawyer needs help, I call Ray. Please join me in supporting Ray Thomas for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas.
“Ray Thomas is the leader the State Bar of Texas needs.
I had the privilege of working side by side on a case with Ray—experiencing firsthand his skilled advocacy in the courtroom and his wise counsel in the office. We became fast friends, which is easy to do with Ray because he is authentic and deeply connects with people. Ray listens. He really listens. He is a team builder and a collaborator. What could be better for the Bar?
I knew of Ray’s dedication to the legal community and of his wide-ranging practice, but I have since learned that his servant leadership spans much further. And I have had the privilege of getting to know Ray’s family, another great tribute to the man Ray is.
I am grateful that Ray is willing to share his endless energy, his work ethic, his strategic thinking, and his giant heart with the State Bar of Texas.”
“Ray Thomas is one of the greatest lawyer leaders I have known in more than 3 decades of practice. Since I met him in the late 90s when he was leading the Texas Young Lawyers, I was drawn by Ray’s passion for helping others, his heart, his work ethic, and the way he truly makes others feel good about themselves and what they are doing. I have personally witnesses his empathy and understanding which have been valuable assets to the mental well-being of those in our profession and for the inclusion of lawyers of every race, gender, economic status, and practice area. Ray has been there with me and for me in the courtroom, and in the darkest of times in my personal and professional life. He is an extraordinary trial lawyer, and an even better person. There is no one in our profession that I would rather have in my foxhole than Ray Thomas, or that I would rather lead the State Bar of Texas.”
“I enthusiastically support Ray Thomas’s candidacy for President of the State Bar of Texas from a perspective that carries particular weight: I have been adverse to him in high-stakes litigation. In those cases, he proved to be a determined advocate for his clients while consistently remaining professional, fair, and respectful to his opponents. That balance is increasingly rare in contested litigation, where civility is often lost in the pursuit of outcome. Mr. Thomas exemplifies the leadership, judgment, and professionalism the State Bar of Texas needs in its President.”
“I have known Ray on both a professional and personal level for over a decade. He is a man of deep faith and integrity. Ray’s honesty and professional demeanor are above reproach. Moreso, his courtroom trial skills are among the best! He has my full support for President Elect of the State Bar of Texas.“
“I’ve had the privilege and good fortune of knowing Ray for many years, both professionally and personally, through Texas Bar and ABOTA organizations. I hereby rise as a Texas lawyer to whole-heartedly endorse Ray for President-Elect of the State Bar. He is a proven leader with character, commitment, and courage; a servant of God, his fellow man and colleagues, and those seeking justice.“
“I have known and worked with Ray for decades and can attest to his leadership skills, unbridled dedication, and work ethic as it pertains to improving the practice of law for Texas attorneys. Ray’s focus on what is important for Texas attorneys and the clients we represent will serve the Texas State Bar well with him at the helm. Ray is without question deserving of your support.”
“I am proud to support Ray Thomas for President of the State Bar of Texas. I currently serve under his leadership as Council for the Litigation Section of the State Bar where I have seen firsthand his unwavering dedication to the legal profession and his commitment to meaningful service, especially to those who are too often overlooked. Ray is a proven leader with the experience, integrity, and work ethic necessary to lead our Bar effectively. His ability to turn vision into action is evident in his creation of a Trial Academy for new lawyers in a record amount of time, providing critical training and mentorship to the next generation of trial lawyers. I am confident Ray will be a president for all members of the State Bar because he is supportive, mission-driven, and focused on strengthening our profession.”
“I am pleased to endorse Raymond L. Thomas, Jr., of McAllen, Texas, for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas in the upcoming 2026 election.
Ray Thomas brings to this role a distinguished record of professional excellence, leadership, and dedicated service to both the legal profession and the broader community. With more than three decades of active practice as a board-certified civil trial lawyer admitted since 1988, Ray has demonstrated both deep legal knowledge and a commitment to justice across the full span of his career.
His peers have consistently recognized his skill and integrity — evidenced by his selection to Super Lawyers for nearly two decades, and his sustained contributions as a speaker, educator, and trusted counselor within the profession.
Importantly, Ray’s leadership extends beyond the courtroom. He has served in numerous voluntary roles within the State Bar structure, including on key committees and commissions that shape how our profession serves both its members and the public. His experience managing organizational responsibilities and building consensus among diverse stakeholders uniquely qualifies him to lead the Bar at a time when it must balance tradition with thoughtful evolution.
Ray is among the leaders forming a Foundation Endowment to support civics education primary and secondary schools, and professional development in the legal community through his efforts and philanthropy in the ABOTA Foundation.
Ray’s deep roots in South Texas — combined with a lifetime of service to both clients and community — reflect the values of professionalism, ethics, and inclusion that define the best of our bar. As a nominee for State Bar president-elect, he offers a vision grounded in experience, respect for tradition, and a forward-looking commitment to the profession.
For these reasons, I enthusiastically support Raymond L. Thomas for President of the State Bar of Texas and urge my fellow members to cast their votes for a leader who will advance our profession with integrity and purpose.”
“Actions speak louder than words. In the 30-plus years I’ve worked with Ray, his actions have demonstrated a deep commitment to the legal profession and our solemn responsibilities as lawyers. His actions go well beyond representing his clients with integrity and professionalism. He has been actively involved in bettering the profession through service, education, and working to improve the system to help lawyers and their clients. There is no better friend to our profession than Ray Thomas.”
“I have known Ray Thomas for more than a decade. He in my estimation is a “lawyer’s lawyer.” And by that I mean he is the guy I want mentoring me. He is the lawyer I use as my “North Star.” If I am looking to do something well, something a client needs to be done, I am going to Ray for suggestions!. I served with Ray in our Grievance Governance system for years. I found him to be insightful, creative and dogged in his determination to make disciplining our own fair and firm. As our State Bar President Ray will give us his all – that’s why I am voting for Ray as our next State Bar President-Elect.”
“Ray is a servant-leader who knows what today’s State Bar of Texas needs. Serving with Ray on the Litigation Section Council, I’ve seen first-hand how Ray inspires others around them to do their best work – more than they thought they were capable of. The first and last thing on his mind is what he can do to improve the lives and practices of Texas Lawyers. I enthusiastically endorse Ray!”
“When the State Bar of Texas announced Ray Thomas’ candidacy for President Elect, I was ecstatic! Ray is the perfect candidate to lead our noble profession because character counts. Ray is a true “lawyer’s lawyer” as he is on the front lines of effective trial and appellate advocacy. He devotes a significant amount of time and effort working in his local community yet finds time to serve as a mentor for young lawyers across the state. I have witnessed Ray’s leadership first-hand as Chair of the State Bar Litigation Council and he understands the issues we face as a profession and how to get things done. I especially appreciate Ray’s thoughtful leadership as he seeks out new ideas and different perspectives, weighs the alternatives, considers possible outcomes and develops reasonable positions. He is approachable, engaged, and genuinely committed to leading others well. Please join me in voting for Ray Thomas for President Elect of the State Bar of Texas this Spring.”
“Ray Thomas has been a highly respected member of the legal community for more than three decades. He is widely regarded as an exceptional trial advocate who represents his clients with skill, integrity, and unwavering dedication. Beyond his courtroom excellence, Ray is distinguished by his leadership, professionalism, and tireless commitment to service—both within the legal profession and in the broader community. For these reasons, I wholeheartedly endorse and support Ray Thomas in his candidacy for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas.”
“Ray Thomas is an experienced, committed and effective bar leader. I saw firsthand his leadership in action on the board of the Texas Young Lawyers Association, and in the local bar and state bar levels. He is also an accomplished and skilled trial lawyer, respected by the bench and the bar. He cares deeply about the legal profession, about giving back to educate the next generation of lawyers, and about the fair administration of justice for all. Ray will be a great President of the State Bar of Texas.”
“Ray Thomas is a listener and a doer, the perfect combination for making a great SBOT President. He is a proven leader, time and time again, in every station of life – family, community, and the SBOT. I am so happy to finally have the opportunity to endorse, support, and vote Ray Thomas for SBOT President!”
“When Ray has been my opposition I have always known that I am up against a great trial lawyer who embodies the highest trial attributes and combines them with the highest ethics. When I have been fortunate enough to have Ray on my team, I have learned that Ray is not only a great leader but a great listener who works well with his team on all fronts.
In short, Ray is the consummate trial lawyer; but my real honor in knowing Ray is that I can call Ray my friend. He has always been humble in his victories but more importantly, he has been humble with his opposition knowing how it feels when inevitably one is not always victorious.
I cannot think of a better trial lawyer, better communicator, or person who can lead our State Bar and I whole heartedly endorse Ray Thomas for State Bar President.”
“Ray is dedicated to his clients and the bar. I have worked with him in the Litigation Section leadership for years, and I am impressed with his loyalty to the bar and his unwavering focus on ethics and the rule of law. Ray would be a great leader for the State Bar of Texas.”
“Ray has been such a dedicated leader of the Litigation Section of the State Bar of Texas – he worked with our local Rio Grande Valley Chapter of ABOTA (the American Board of Trial Advocates) to put on an incredibly innovative Trial Academy that was invaluable to young lawyers still trying to get experience. I expect Ray will put that same kind of creative thinking and hard work into being President of the State Bar of Texas. He has my support.”
“I have known Ray Thomas for over ten years, and I can say without hesitation that he is a man of integrity and one of the hardest-working, most dedicated lawyers I know. Ray has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the rule of law, professionalism, service, and the ethical practice of law. His experience, judgment, and steady leadership make him exceptionally well-suited to serve as President of the State Bar of Texas. Ray listens to stakeholders while also having a vision to lead. I am proud to support Ray Thomas for this important role.”
“I am a member of the Texas State Bar’s Litigation Section and have had the pleasure of serving on the Ligation Council which is chaired by Ray. I did not know Ray prior to serving on the Council but have found him to be the consummate lawyer. He is genuine and incredibly knowledgeable about almost all things related to being a great lawyer let alone an outstanding litigator. His ability to analyze issues in the litigation realm is very impressive and I believe that trait alone qualifies him to lead the Bar into the future. He is an excellent candidate for State Bar President and relates to lawyers a people first and is a great listener. I fully endorse Ray Thomas as the next Texas State Bar President.”
“Ray Thomas is a leader. He has served as a Director of the State Bar of Texas, as President of the Texas Young Lawyers Association, and as a Commissioner of the Texas Access to Justice Commission. He currently serves as Chair of the State Bar of Texas Litigation Section and its governing body, the Litigation Council. Ray is also a well-recognized trial lawyer, having been selected as a Fellow of the International Society of Barristers and as an Advocate and Senior Life Fellow of the American Board of Tral Advocates. In short, Ray would be a great President of the State Bar of Texas.”
“I have known Ray since I was in law school when he began extolling the virtues State Bar participation. He took it a step further, introducing me to his network of bar leaders before I was even a member of the bar. Since then, I have worked on cases with Ray. Simply put, Ray represents the very best of our profession in terms of ability and, I believe more importantly, service. He will be an outstanding President of the State Bar of Texas.”
“I’ve known Ray Thomas for nearly 30 years, since our days on the Texas Young Lawyers Association Board. Ray is a proven leader and a true consensus builder—respected across the board. I’ve worked with him on cases and know him to be an outstanding advocate and an even better person. He’ll serve Texas lawyers exceptionally well as State Bar president.“
“I first met Ray when we sparred at the courthouse and came to know then, some thirty years ago, that he is an attorney deserving of respect and admiration. Ray’s work ethic and professionalism is legendary. Ray could have authored the Texas Lawyer’s Creed since he exemplifies it daily. He has a great love of the Lord and his Faith has made him what he is today. I endorse Ray without reservation and will eagerly cast my vote for him.”
“It is a privilege for me to endorse Ray Thomas for State Bar President. Ray is a lawyer’s lawyer. His unique background, both personally and professionally makes him exceptionally qualified to represent all Texas lawyers.
Personally, his first formative years were spent in the Presidio, Texas. Then his single mother moved him to the Dallas area for High School, experiencing both the smallest and largest communities in Texas. He has also lived in San Antonio, Austin, Seguin and McAllen. He knows Texas and Texas lawyers.
Professionally, Ray has a represented a wide range of clients. He has defended fortune 50 companies in high stakes cases, he’s represented injured parties as plaintiffs’ counsel, he’s represented elected officials, judges, doctors, celebrities and lawyers from all fields of practice and all parts of Texas.
Ray has been a partner in a firm, been co-counsel with lawyers from the biggest firms in the country, and he has operated his own law firm, he’s done it all as a lawyer. He has served as a Special Master, arbitrator and mediator. His professionalism and ethical standards are exceptional. Ray is respected by judges and lawyers and opposing counsel, Ray understands the specific issues faced by all Texas lawyers and will serve the entire bar with integrity, energy and an open mind. Ray has the ability to listen, identify problems and get them solved.”
“I believe the lawyers of the State Bar of Texas are the most hardworking, thoughtful, and fearless in the nation. The President of the State Bar of Texas must therefore possess the leadership skills to match. Ray Thomas is not only a renowned trial lawyer with thirty years of experience, but has also dedicated his professional and personal life to service. He leads with humility, clarity, vision and an unwavering commitment to do what is right. He’s never met a stranger and thus I believe he will move the State Bar forward through collaboration, with integrity and unwavering commitment. I am so proud to call him my friend and colleague!”
“I have had the privilege to know Ray as a friend and colleague for more than 25 years. He’s as good as they come. He is a true servant and exactly the leader the State Bar of Texas deserves. I have witnessed his impeccable integrity, work ethic, intelligence, and compassion in all facets of our profession. There is no doubt that Ray will work hard on behalf of all Texas attorneys, the public and our State Bar. I am proud to support and emphatically endorse Ray Thomas for State Bar President-Elect.”
“I have known Ray for over 30 years and have had the privilege of working alongside him on numerous cases. He is an outstanding attorney, formed with a rare combination of professionalism, integrity , and can-do spirit. Ray’s faith and his family are his true north. Yet, he consistently finds the time and energy to give back through extensive involvement in State Bar Activities. He is a true leader in every sense of the word. I strongly recommend Ray Thomas for the position of Texas State Bar President.”
“I am writing to offer my strongest recommendation and endorsement for Raymond Thomas for President of the State Bar of Texas. I have had the privilege of knowing and working alongside Ray for many years, and I can say without hesitation that he possesses the legal excellence, integrity, and character required for this important leadership role.
As a trial lawyer, Ray is exceptional. He is always thoroughly prepared, strategically sharp, and deeply respected by colleagues, clients, and even adversaries. His advocacy reflects not only technical mastery of the law, but also a commitment to fairness and professionalism that elevates the practice as a whole.
Beyond the courtroom, Ray is a person of integrity and service. As a deacon in our church, he consistently demonstrated humility, compassion, and a dedication to serving others. These values are not only confined to his personal life but they are evident in the way he mentors younger attorneys, engages with the legal community, and approaches leadership with thoughtfulness and respect.
Most importantly, Ray is simply a great individual—approachable, principled, and trusted. He listens carefully, leads by example, and brings so much to the table. These qualities will make him uniquely suited to represent our State Bar and he will do so with wisdom and credibility.
I am confident that Ray Thomas will serve as an outstanding President of the State Bar of Texas and would bring honor, vision, and steady leadership to the role. I endorse him without reservation.”
“We are proud to support Ray Thomas for President of the State Bar of Texas. Ray has long demonstrated professionalism, a respect for the Rule of Law, and a deep commitment to serving both the legal profession and the public, which we believe make him well qualified to lead at this important time. We believe he will serve the State Bar.”
“I have known Ray Thomas since we served together on the Texas Young Lawyers Association Board of Directors when he was President. Over the years, he has continued to be a tremendous Bar leader, and, more importantly, an all-around great person! I whole-heartedly support Ray as President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas.”
“I have known Ray Thomas for almost thirty years, both personally and professionally, and I can say without hesitation that he is exceptionally well suited to serve as PresidentElect of the State Bar of Texas. I had the privilege of serving as Chair of the Board when Ray was President of the Texas Young Lawyers Association from 1999 to 2000, and even then, he stood out for his steady leadership, sound judgment, and genuine respect for the profession. He listened carefully, brought people together, and approached every issue with thoughtfulness and integrity.
The issues that matter most to Texas lawyers today are the same issues Ray has been committed to throughout his career – professionalism, access to justice, and a strong, effective State Bar. He understands the concerns and perspectives across the full spectrum of our profession, and his service as a State Bar Director, President of TYLA, Commissioner on the Texas Access to Justice Commission, and Chair of the Litigation Section of the State Bar gives him the experience and credibility to lead with balance and fairness.
I am proud to support Ray Thomas as our next PresidentElect of the State Bar of Texas.”
“I’ve had the privilege of practicing law in the past alongside Ray Thomas as my law partner and calling him one of my closest friends for many years—he’s even godfather to my oldest son. His leadership as Chair of the State Bar’s Litigation Section and former President of the Texas Young Lawyers Association speaks to his tireless commitment to our profession, while his service as a Deacon reflects the integrity and servant’s heart he brings to everything he does. Ray is not only an exceptional litigator but a unifying voice who will lead our State Bar with the same dedication he’s shown throughout his career. I wholeheartedly endorse him for State Bar President.”
“That Ray Thomas is a highly skilled and respected trial lawyer is not what makes him such a great choice to lead the State Bar or Texas. What makes Ray the perfect person to lead our profession is his consistently demonstrated ability to combine vision and leadership with consensus building and enthusiasm. Ray always comes to the table well-prepared but tempered by his confidence to listen (and hear) your point of view (even when it differs from his). I can promise, without reservation, that Ray is a great choice for this job and his performance as our State Bar President will validate your trust in giving him your vote.”
“‘Empowering advocates, promoting justice, and preserving the rule of law.’ That is the mission statement of the Litigation Section of the SBOT, but it also describes the priorities of Ray Thomas, who I endorse without reservation to lead the SBOT as President. Since I began practicing law in 2003, I have gotten to know a number of fine lawyers who have served as state bar leaders, including my partners David J. Beck and Alistair Dawson. Soon after I met Ray on the leadership Council of the Litigation Section, it became clear that Ray shares the same qualities of those leaders: a deep commitment to our profession, an intense work ethic, and a servant’s heart. He understands both the challenges facing Texas lawyers today and the responsibility the Bar has to support its members while serving the public with excellence.”
“I wholeheartedly endorse my long-time friend Ray Thomas for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas. Ray and I served together on the TYLA Board of Directors and have remained friends over the years. He is an exceptional attorney, has a relentless work ethic, and has a servant’s heart. I cannot think of a better leader for our bar association.”
“I endorse his candidacy without reservation given his 40+ years in service to the local and state-wide Bar, the Catholic Community and his pro bono services”
“Ray is innovative, enthusiastic, informed, and professional—above all, he is genuine. He brings natural leadership and a clear vision to everything he does. Ray Thomas is distinctly qualified to serve as State Bar President.”
“As a practicing attorney and proven leader who’s chaired the Litigation Section and served with ABOTA’s South Texas Chapter, Ray understands the real challenges facing Texas lawyers today. He combines sharp legal judgment with uncompromising ethics and a genuine commitment to serving others. Ray will bring the same approach to Bar leadership that he shows his clients every day.”
“I am proud to endorse Ray Thomas for President of the State Bar of Texas. Ray has consistently demonstrated thoughtful, ethical leadership and a genuine commitment to serving the legal profession and the public we represent. Ray’s experience, sound judgment, and collaborative leadership style make him exceptionally well suited for this role. He listens, builds consensus, and leads with integrity. Texas lawyers would be well served by Ray as President.”
I am so proud and excited to endorse my friend, Ray Thomas, in his candidacy for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas. I have known Ray for nearly my entire legal career, and over those three+ decades, we’ve had the privilege—and sometimes the misfortune—of being on both the same side and opposite sides of the “v”!
Ray is a fierce advocate for his clients, but he’s even a stronger advocate for the civil justice system and the right to jury trial. He’s served our profession at the highest levels, including his current role as Chair of the SBOT’s Litigation Section, and he brings both leadership and genuine perspective to the role.
Ray is also a devoted family man and a man of faith. He has long been a proud representative of the Rio Grande Valley, while also planting roots in Seguin and at his beloved Santos Patronos Ranch. No matter the venue, Ray carries with him a genuine commitment to service and community.
Ray has the experience and vision to lead the State Bar of Texas, and I am honored to offer him my wholehearted endorsement.
I am supporting Ray Thomas for President Elect of the State Bar because, “He’s a dog that will hunt.”
I am supporting Ray Thomas for President Elect of the State Bar because, “He’s as good as the best and better than the rest.”
I support my friend Ray for Texas State Bar President. Ray is a great lawyer and wonderful human being. And he has a heck of a wagyu beef ranch. What more can you ask for in a President?
Ray Thomas has my full support for State Bar President-Elect. He is an exceptional trial lawyer and an even better mentor and teacher. I learned more in a short time at the ABOTA Trial Academy in Chicago than I ever thought possible, and much of that was because of Ray’s clarity, patience, and command of the craft. He represents Texas hospitality at its finest by welcoming, generous with his knowledge, and deeply committed to elevating the profession. Texas lawyers would be well served by his leadership.
We are proud to offer our wholehearted endorsement of Ray Thomas for President of the State Bar of Texas.
We both had the privilege of getting to know Ray while attending the ABOTA Trial College in Chicago, hosted by the American Board of Trial Advocates. Ray served as one of the instructors, and from the outset it was clear that he embodies the highest standards of professionalism, preparation, and passion for trial advocacy.
Throughout the program, Ray was an invaluable source of knowledge, mentorship, and practical courtroom experience. He invested meaningful time in developing young lawyers, generously sharing both his technical expertise and his perspective on professionalism and service. His commitment to excellence in the courtroom is matched by his dedication to strengthening the legal profession as a whole.
We have no doubt that Ray will bring the same passion, discipline, and integrity that he demonstrates in the courtroom to his leadership of the State Bar of Texas. He understands the responsibility that comes with leadership and has the experience, temperament, and vision necessary to serve lawyers across our state effectively.
I am incredibly proud to endorse Ray Thomas for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas. Having clerked for Ray through law school and subsequently blessed to work alongside him after passing the bar exam, I can personally attest to his exceptional qualities. Beyond being an incredible trial lawyer, Ray is an even better person, mentor, and friend. He inspires everyone who has the privilege to know him. I will never forget the first summer I clerked for him: on my last day he reminded me that as a lawyer I would have plenty of opportunities to be successful, but he also emphasized that true joy in life doesn’t come from financial success, but rather from service to others. Ray is a humble, but extremely brilliant competent and effective leader. He has dedicated his life to serving God, his family, his clients, his community and our profession. I believe Ray is the ideal candidate to represent and advance the interests of lawyers and of our profession across our great State. I am confident that under his leadership and vision, he will take the State Bar to great heights. I humbly ask everyone to join me in casting their vote for Ray.
My good friend Ray Thomas is a candidate for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas. I am sure that many of you know Ray. He is an outstanding trial lawyer and mediator from McAllen, Texas. Ray and I have been in fox holes together. You see the true measure of a man when the pressure is intense, and the chips are on the table. I can attest that Ray is not only an excellent trial lawyer, but he is an outstanding human being. He is honorable, compassionate, and empathetic. He will make an outstanding President-Elect.
“I’ve known Ray Thomas for decades, and he is a brilliant, dedicated, and ethical lawyer who has given countless hours serving our profession in a variety of roles. As a hardworking member of the State Bar board of directors, as chair of the Litigation Section, as president of TYLA, and in many other roles, I have seen Ray demonstrate over and over again his commitment to the lawyers of Texas, to our clients, and to the public. He is exactly the lawyer we need to thoughtfully manage the challenges we face in this new century. I am honored to whole-heartedly endorse Ray Thomas for State Bar President-Elect!”
“I am honored to endorse Ray Thomas for President-Elect of the State Bar of Texas—not merely as a colleague, but as a friend I’ve known and observed for over thirty years.
Ray is that rare combination: a lawyer’s lawyer and a man of genuine character. I’ve had the privilege of closely watching him lead in our South Texas community, practice law with integrity, and navigate the complexities of our profession with both skill and grace. These aren’t observations from a distance—we’ve prayed together, played together, laughed and cried together, and yes, practiced law together. I asked him to stand as my best man because I knew the measure of the man.
What sets Ray apart is substance. Over three decades, I’ve seen him demonstrate the kind of steady leadership our profession needs—rooted in principle, guided by his faith and devotion to service, and marked by an unwavering commitment to the law and those it serves. He understands what it means to be a lawyer in Texas because he’s lived it in the trenches, in the courtroom, and in the community.
From my experience serving on the Board of Directors of the State Bar of Texas, I also know the State Bar needs a President who will lead with both competence and conviction. Ray Thomas is that person.
I am proud to offer Ray my highest personal and professional endorsement. I am blessed to call him my friend, and I am confident he will serve the State Bar of Texas with distinction.”
“I am proud to offer my strongest endorsement of Ray Thomas for President of the State Bar of Texas.
My experience with Ray during the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) Trial Academy training program profoundly shaped my development as a trial lawyer. As my mentor, Ray did far more than teach courtroom technique — he invested in my growth as a professional. He challenged me to think creatively about presenting a case to a jury, to move beyond reciting facts, and to craft a compelling story that resonates on a human level. He demonstrated that great advocacy is equal parts preparation, strategy, authenticity, and courage.
What distinguishes Ray most is his unwavering commitment to developing other lawyers. Ray understands that the strength of our profession depends on investing in the next generation. He models professionalism, preparation, creativity, and integrity, and he actively works to cultivate those qualities in others. His leadership is grounded in service — service to clients, to the courts, and to fellow lawyers seeking to improve their craft.
As President, Ray will prioritize professional development, meaningful mentorship, and support for lawyers at every stage of practice. He recognizes that when we elevate one another, we elevate the entire Bar.
I wholeheartedly support Ray Thomas for President and encourage my colleagues to do the same. Our profession will be stronger under his leadership.”
