The Houston Bar Association is saddened to learn of the passing of Justice Ruby Kless Sondock, a true pioneer whose influence on the legal profession in Texas cannot be overstated.

Throughout her career, Justice Sondock opened doors for generations of women lawyers and judges. A 1962 graduate and valedictorian of the University of Houston Law Center, she quickly established herself as a skilled advocate, arguing a case before the Texas Supreme Court within her first year of practice. In 1973, she became Harris County's first woman district court judge and, later, the first woman appointed to the 234th District Court.

Justice Sondock continued to break new ground in 1982, when she became the first woman to serve on the Texas Supreme Court during a regular session. She went on to devote decades of service to the legal community as a judge, mediator, mentor, and role model.

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions and lasting impact, the Houston Bar Association established the Justice Ruby Kless Sondock Award in 2019. Presented each year at the HBA Annual Dinner, the award honors a woman lawyer or judge who demonstrates exceptional achievement, leadership, and service to the profession, values that Justice Sondock embodied throughout her life and career.

The Houston Bar Association joins the legal community across Texas in honoring Justice Sondock's extraordinary life and legacy. We are proud to celebrate her achievements through the Justice Ruby Kless Sondock Award and grateful for the path she forged for those who followed. Her influence on the profession will endure for generations.

We encourage you to take a moment to watch her interviews from the HBA's Living History Project, where she reflects on her life, career, and the barriers she helped break for future generations.

Watch Justice Sondock's Interviews Here