Throughout Judge Ward’s distinguished career as a trial lawyer and U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Texas, he has epitomized the hallmarks of a great lawyer: unwavering ethics, continuous learning, and the pursuit of excellence over mere success. Judge Ward’s dedication to growth and mentorship has never wavered and continues today at Miller Fair Henry, formerly Ward, Smith & Hill, the law firm founded by his son, Johnny.
The invitation to join the firm came a year before Judge Ward retired in 2011 from the high-profile courtroom where he presided over some of the nation’s most complex intellectual property and class-action lawsuits. After much reflection and counsel, he recognized the transition to private practice as another personal and professional development opportunity.
He now relishes his role as an arbitrator and mediator, all while continuing his legacy of mentorship. Interestingly, Judge Ward concedes he gains as much insight from younger lawyers as they do from him.
Law wasn’t Judge Ward’s first career choice. After attending Magnolia High School outside of Houston, he pursued a degree in engineering physics but soon realized it wasn’t a good fit. He then contemplated a career in medicine and even dabbled in pharmaceutical sales before a college mentor redirected him toward law, something that’s captivated him ever since.
Judge Ward believes the legal profession is a noble one, and the relationships that are developed with lawyers in and out of trial practice and members of the judiciary will remain the most meaningful part of his more than 55 years in the profession.
Even with his notable accomplishments, Judge Ward remains humble, referring to himself as “an old country lawyer who got lucky.” When he’s not working, Judge Ward values moments with Cissy, his wife of more than 59 years, and their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. An avid quail hunter, he began a family tradition of favoring quail over turkey during holidays. But as quail declines in West Texas, he now devotes most of his free time to perfecting the tomatoes in his garden.
