Fort Bend County Judge Daniel Wong filed a lawsuit against Fort Bend County Attorney Bridgette Smith-Lawson on July 6, 2026. The lawsuit asks a district court to reaffirm the validity of Wong's judicial appointment and seeks declaratory and injunctive relief.

Daniel Wong was appointed by district court order under Chapter 87 of the Texas Local Government Code, following the suspension of the former county judge. The lawsuit petition states that Wong's appointment has not been vacated, modified, or set aside by any court.

The lawsuit contends that Smith-Lawson's actions created uncertainty within county government, disrupted the orderly conduct of Commissioners Court business, and diverted public resources from serving residents. It asks the district court to clarify the constitutional requirements governing continuity in public office and prevent further actions that interfere with county government operations. The lawsuit argues that the Texas Constitution requires continuity in public office until a lawful successor is duly qualified.

"I did not seek this lawsuit," Wong said. "I sought to do the job the district court entrusted me to do." Wong also stated, "The people of Fort Bend County deserve certainty, stability, and a government focused on serving the public — not political disputes."