Janet Horton

Janet Horton is a respected civil rights and education law attorney who has spent her entire legal career representing public schools. Her practice centers on protecting the rights of students and employees through diligent advocacy in special education, disability law, and broader civil rights matters. She brings unmatched insight and dedication to every case she handles.

Janet earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Texas School of Law in 1980 and holds a Bachelor of Arts with honors from the University of Texas at Austin. She is licensed to practice in Texas and admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Janet has deep expertise in special education law, including ARD meeting representation, due process hearings, and appeals. She advises school districts on civil rights compliance, employee and student issues, and constitutional protections. Her guidance is instrumental in navigating Section 504, the ADA, and federal and state laws governing educational access and equity.

Beyond litigation, Janet supports school districts with employment law, board policy, Open Meetings Act compliance, and superintendent contract negotiations. She actively collaborates with legislators to ensure that public schools’ voices are heard on legal issues, especially those affecting special education and civil rights protections.

Recognized for her impact, Janet Horton has been named a Texas “Super Lawyer” for over 15 years and honored with the Kelly Frels Lifetime Achievement Award. Her leadership roles include chairing the State Bar of Texas School Law Section and the Texas Association of School Boards Council of School Attorneys. She is also a frequent speaker on topics related to state civil rights and education law.

Janet remains a trusted advocate for public education. She combines legal acumen with a steadfast commitment to equity and access in Texas schools. Her work continues shaping the legal landscape for school districts and their communities.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Thompson & Horton LLP
• Life Fellow, Texas Bar Foundation
• Member, Houston Bar Association
• Member, Spring Branch Education Foundation Board
• Member, Spring Branch Family Development Center Board
• Member, Collaborative for the Children Board

Licensed State

• Texas

Education

• The University of Texas School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• The University of Texas at Austin
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges