Rios sworn in as new district judge

The first words Daniel Rios spoke to a crowded courtroom after he slid into his judicial robe came naturally: “Please be seated.”

Rios will find himself speaking the phrase often starting next week as he takes his first seat behind the 449th state District Court bench in Hidalgo County.

Texas Supreme Court Justice Dale Wainwright gave Rios his judicial oath Friday.

“It’s going to be a good learning process,” Rios said. “I am looking forward to making the best decisions for the children of our county.”

Gov. Rick Perry appointed Rios, the former attorney for the city of Edinburg, to preside over the new juvenile court that the state Legislature created in May.

Rios will have to successfully run in the November election to retain the seat.

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Jackie Leatherman covers Hidalgo County government and general assignments at The Monitor. She can be reached at (956) 683-4424.