A legislator for more than a decade, Gallot is planning a return to his first love. Lincoln Parish attorney and State Sen. Rick Gallot recently stated that he plans to run for judge in the 3rd Judicial District in the fall of this year.
Law has always been Gallot’s passion, so when he saw an opportunity to run for a judgeship, he did not hesitate.
“Law is my true passion, the opportunity to serve the residents of Lincoln and Union parish is one opportunity I could not pass up,” Gallot said. “I first became highly interested in running for judgeship when I learned that the current Judge R. Wayne Smith announced that he would not seek reelection this fall.”
While Gallot has his eye on becoming a judge, he already has a job as a state senator.. Gallot’s senate term ends in January 2016. If elected judge this fall Gallot will no longer be able to serve as a senator. According to Gallot if he wins the election he would not have to resign his senate seat until right before he is sworn in as judge.
Gallot has served in the Louisiana legislature for roughly 13 years and he still loves serving the 120,000 residents of Senate District 29.
Grambling State University and the Grambling community are very familiar with the Gallot name. His mother’s a former GSU department head and member of the UL System Board of supervisors, and his father is a local businessman who was once mayor of Grambling. Sen. Gallot received his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from GSU. The senator feels his experience at GSU was very positive and he feels it helped him to become the man he is today.
“I would rate my professors at GSU as some of the best anywhere,” Gallot said. They challenged me and helped develop the drive and determination to know that anything is possible if we are willing to work and make the necessary sacrifices.” Gallot said.
“If you can make it at Grambling, you can make it anywhere. My education at GSU both inside and outside the classroom has laid a solid foundation for my future.”
Gallot also attended the rival school of GSU, Southern University, where he received his law degree. According to Gallot it was the “Enemy Camp”, but it was a great experience.
“I received a solid legal education that not only prepared me to pass the bar exam on the first try, but it also provided me with the tools needed to be successful as a practicing attorney,” Gallot said.
Gallot says his years of experience as a lawyer will provide him with the necessary knowledge to run and efficient and effective court. Gallot believes his 13 years as a state lawmaker will certainly provide an advantage when it comes to the interpretation of laws on the bench.