Edwards Aquifer Authority v. Chemical Lime, Ltd.
Justice Willett concurs with the Court's judgment, agreeing that the Edwards Aquifer Authority became effective as per the Bar-shop opinion date. However, he emphasizes the unresolved fundamental legal question concerning when an appellate-court judgment becomes final and takes effect, which he believes warrants the Court's rulemaking attention. He argues that the mandate, rather than the opinion's issuance, should generally be considered the definitive date for a judgment's finality and enforceability, citing various rules and statutes that link finality to the mandate's issuance. Willett contrasts his view with arguments that judgments are effective upon issuance, highlighting the period before a mandate issues during which the court can still modify its decision. He concludes by reiterating his agreement with the Court's outcome in the present case but advocates for clear guidelines on judgment finality through the rulemaking process.