Serving 32 Counties Across South Texas and the Hill Country
Running a court of this size requires more than just legal knowledge – it requires proven leadership. Judge Antonia “Toni” Arteaga brings nearly two decades of experience presiding over the 57th District Court. She understands that behind every case file is a human being waiting for a resolution. As Chief Justice, she will apply that same dedication to ensure the 4th Court of Appeals is accessible, efficient, and fair for all 32 counties.
The Texas 4th Court of Appeals is one of the most important-and busiest-appellate courts in the state. Based in San Antonio at the Cadena-Reeves Justice Center, it serves a massive district that spans from the Rio Grande to the Hill Country.
Unlike the trial courts (where witnesses testify and juries decide facts), the 4th Court of Appeals reviews decisions to ensure the law was applied correctly.
Our District: A Voice for 32 Counties
This court does not just serve San Antonio. It hears cases from a diverse region covering urban cities, rural ranchlands, and border communities.
The 32 Counties we serve:
- Urban & Suburban: Bexar, Guadalupe, Comal, Kendall
- Hill Country & Rural South: Wilson, Atascosa, Medina, Bandera, Gillespie, Kerr, Frio, Uvalde, Jim Hogg, Brooks, Duval, Jim Wells, Karnes, La Salle, Mason, McMullen, Menard, Real, Sutton, Edwards, Zavala
- Rio Grande Region: Webb (Laredo), Val Verde (Del Rio), Maverick (Eagle Pass), Starr, Zapata, Kinney, Dimmit
“What is the difference between the Chief Justice and the other Justices?”
While every Justice on the court has an equal vote on the cases they hear, the Chief Justice serves as the administrative leader of the entire court. Think of the Chief Justice as the “CEO” of the 4th Court of Appeals.
- Managing the Docket (Efficiency)
The Chief Justice is responsible for the flow of cases. A court that isn’t managed well develops a backlog, leaving families and businesses waiting years for answers.
The Chief’s Duty: To ensure cases move swiftly, assign panels, and monitor “clearance rates” so that justice is not delayed. - Financial & Administrative Oversight
The Chief Justice oversees the court’s budget, operations, and the Clerk’s Office.
The Chief’s Duty: To be a steward of taxpayer money, ensuring the court has the resources to operate professionally and transparently. - The Face of the Court
The Chief Justice represents the 4th Court to the public, the State Legislature, and the legal community.
The Chief’s Duty: To advocate for the court’s needs and to maintain public faith in the integrity of our justice system.