Herbert H. Slatery III is a notable figure in the legal and political landscape of Tennessee. Serving as the Attorney General of Tennessee from 2014 to 2022, Slatery's tenure was marked by significant legal battles, controversial stances, and impactful decisions. This article delves into his life and career, exploring his early years, career highlights, personal achievements, and financial insights.
Quick Info Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Herbert H. Slatery III |
| Popular As | Herbert Slatery |
| Occupations | Attorney, Former Attorney General of Tennessee |
| Age (as of 2024) | 72 |
| Date of Birth | March 8, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Knoxville, Tennessee |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | Not Publicly Available |
| Weight | Not Publicly Available |
| net worth (2025) | Not Publicly Available |
| Salary | Not Publicly Available |
| Parents | Not Publicly Available |
| Spouse | Cary Slatery |
| Children | Frances Slatery, Harrison Slatery |
Early Life
Herbert H. Slatery III was born on March 8, 1952, in Knoxville, Tennessee. His early life set the stage for a distinguished career in law and politics.
Education Journey
Slatery attended the University of Virginia, earning his bachelor's degree. This institution is known for fostering critical thinkers and leaders, which helped Slatery hone his analytical skills. He then earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Tennessee College of Law, equipping him with a solid legal foundation.
Early Career Path
After completing his education, Slatery entered private practice and took on various legal roles. These experiences provided him with a deep understanding of the legal field and prepared him for his future responsibilities as Attorney General.
Career Highlights
Herbert Slatery's career is filled with notable achievements and significant contributions to the legal field.
Appointment as Attorney General
On September 15, 2014, Herbert Slatery was appointed as the Attorney General of Tennessee, succeeding Robert E. Cooper Jr.. He was sworn in on October 1, 2014, becoming the first Republican in this role since Reconstruction, marking a significant political shift in Tennessee's history.
Key Legal Battles
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
One of the most contentious issues during Slatery's tenure was his stance on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Initially, in June 2017, he joined other Republican Attorneys General in threatening litigation against DACA. However, by August 31, 2017, Slatery reversed his position and chose not to pursue legal action against DACA recipients. This decision highlighted the complexity and evolving nature of immigration policies in the United States.
Texas v. Pennsylvania
Another significant event was his involvement in the Texas v. Pennsylvania lawsuit following the 2020 Presidential Election. Led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, this lawsuit aimed to challenge the election results in several states. Slatery's participation underscored his alignment with broader Republican efforts to contest the election outcomes, although the Supreme Court ultimately dismissed the lawsuit.
Controversial Stances
Transgender Rights
In April 2016, Slatery took a controversial stance on an anti-transgender discrimination bill, asserting that it did not violate federal law. This position drew significant criticism from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and highlighted ongoing debates over transgender rights in the United States.
Gender Identity and Hate Crime Laws
In February 2019, Slatery issued an opinion stating that gender identity was not covered under Tennessee's hate crime laws. This opinion further fueled debates on the legal protections available to transgender individuals and the interpretation of hate crime statutes.
Personal Life
Beyond his professional achievements, Herbert Slatery's personal life reveals the man behind the public persona. He resides in Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife, Cary Slatery, and they have two children, Frances and Harrison Slatery.
Family and Personal Interests
Slatery's family has been a cornerstone of his life, providing unwavering support throughout his career. While specific details about his personal interests and hobbies are not widely publicized, it is clear that his family plays a significant role in his life.
Major Achievements
Herbert Slatery's career is marked by several major achievements that have left a lasting impact on Tennessee's legal landscape.
Legal Reforms and Initiatives
During his tenure, Slatery spearheaded various legal reforms and initiatives aimed at improving the state's legal system. His efforts included advocating for policies that enhanced public safety, addressed opioid addiction, and pursued consumer protection measures.
Recognition and Awards
Slatery's contributions have garnered recognition through various awards and honors, reflecting his commitment to public service and his influence within the legal community.
Financial Insights
Understanding the financial aspects of Herbert Slatery's career provides a comprehensive view of his success and influence.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2024, specific details regarding Herbert Slatery's net worth and salary are not publicly available. However, given his prominent roles and extensive career, it is likely that he has accumulated significant financial resources.
Financial Success
Slatery's financial success can be attributed to his long-standing career in law and his tenure as Attorney General. His involvement in high-profile cases and legal reforms has undoubtedly contributed to his professional and financial standing.
Conclusion
Herbert H. Slatery III's career exemplifies his dedication to public service and his influence within Tennessee's legal and political spheres. From his early education to his tenure as Attorney General, Slatery's journey is marked by significant achievements and controversial decisions. His legacy is characterized by his major contributions to Tennessee's legal system and his influential role in shaping public policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was Herbert Slatery's role in the DACA controversy?
A: Initially, Slatery joined other Republican Attorneys General in threatening litigation against DACA. However, he later reversed his position and chose not to pursue legal action against DACA recipients.
Q: What were some of Herbert Slatery's controversial stances?
A: Slatery took controversial stances on issues such as transgender rights and gender identity. He argued that an anti-transgender discrimination bill did not violate federal law and stated that gender identity was not covered under Tennessee's hate crime laws.
Q: Who succeeded Herbert Slatery as Attorney General of Tennessee?
A: As of the end of his tenure in 2022, a successor had not been publicly named. The appointment process for his successor involves the Tennessee Supreme Court.
Q: What is known about Herbert Slatery's family?
A: Herbert Slatery resides in Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife, Cary Slatery. They have two children, Frances and Harrison Slatery.
Herbert H. Slatery III's legacy is characterized by his significant contributions to Tennessee's legal system and his influential role in shaping public policy. His career offers valuable insights into the complexities of legal and political decision-making in contemporary America.
