Judge William H. “Billy” Burris of Franklinton, a conservative jurist and lifelong Republican, has announced his candidacy for the Louisiana Supreme Court, District 1.
The District 1 seat on the court became vacant upon Justice Will Crain’s appointment to a federal judgeship. Like Burris, Crain is also a native of Washington Parish.
Judge Burris brings decades of legal experience on the bench and in private practice, has a proven record of judicial leadership, and a firm commitment to the rule of law and judicial restraint. Judge Burris said his judicial philosophy reflects the tough-minded respect for law and order that conservative voters demand.
“.....I believe the role of a judge is not to make law, but to apply it faithfully,” Judge Burris said.
“Louisiana deserves justices who are firm, fair, and unafraid to uphold the Constitution, even when it’s unpopular. I prioritize public safety, insist on personal responsibility, and treat every litigant with equal respect under the law. I will bring that same steady, principled approach to the Supreme Court.”
Judge Burris is the son of retired District Judge William (Bill) Burris of Franklinton. His mother was the late Ginny Burris, a well-known music teacher in the Washington Parish School Systerm.
Judge Burris has served as District Judge in Division E of the 22nd Judicial District Court, covering Washington and St. Tammany Parishes, since 2018. He attended Franklinton High School and is an LSU alumnus and graduated magna cum laude from Southern University Law Center. During his time on the bench Judge Burris has overseen both civil and criminal dockets and has presided over 49 jury trials. He routinely handles some of the court’s most complex matters, including nine life-without-parole cases and three major sex-offender trials, resulting in sentences ranging from 80 to 200 years. In addition, Judge Burris has played a key role in launching specialty courts focused on accountability and rehabilitation, and he has earned statewide respect through his leadership on multiple judicial committees.
He is a member of the Federalist Society, a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, a former president of the Washington Parish Bar Association, and an ordained deacon at First Baptist Church of Franklinton. He and his wife, Lacy, are raising two daughters in Franklinton. Lacy Burris is Director of Finance for the Washington Parish Government.
The Republican primary is scheduled for Saturday, May 16.
