Ex parte Thuesen

This is an application for a writ of habeas corpus filed pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure article 11.071.1 In this opinion, we consider the preliminary issue of the judicial authority of the judge who presided over habeas proceedings in this case. The judge at issue signed an order voluntarily recusing himself from presiding over applicant's habeas proceedings. He then sought and obtained the appointment of a replacement judge, but subsequently signed an order purporting to restore his own judicial authority to preside over the case. For the reasons explained below, we hold that…