"Know your torts, boy. Know your torts." - Unknown Writ Writer

In 1996, my motivation to study law was not driven by an abstract pursuit of truth. Rather, at that pivotal moment in my life, I committed to studying law because I was determined that no one would ever violate my rights again or exploit my lack of legal knowledge and skills.

In the early years of my legal education, the Texas Department of Corrections, or TDC, was home to some remarkable legal minds. One individual who left a lasting impression on me was an old, nameless writ writer who advised, “Know your torts, boy. Know your torts.” At the time, I understood what a tart was, but I had never encountered a tort. That changed with the second case I pursued during my legal journey.

As I reflect on Walp v. Jackson today, 27 years later and following my discharge from parole in July 2024, I recall the malicious actions of a parole board member who exaggerated the terms of my parole. These terms were ordinary and did not restrict me from being alone with children and women, nor did they mandate “periodic psychological examinations.” I now view that experience as an important lesson: in litigation, the opposing party will assert just about anything.