Briefly describe your legal background and courtroom experience.
My practice consisted of mediation, civil, family, probate, guardianship, mental illness, adult and juvenile criminal cases. Around the 8 to 10 year mark, I concentrated in helping families devastated by dementia, death, mental illness, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. My background in accounting helped me combat exploitation and fraud perpetrated against vulnerable adults. After practicing for 22 years, I served as one of ten statutory probate judges in Texas. I was responsible for decisions including title disputes, eminent domain, probates, involuntary hospitalization of mentally ill people, guardianship, heirship, divorce, trusts, and State adult protective cases.

What qualities do you believe are most important in a county court at law judge?
Impartiality and fortitude to follow the rule of law and not be swayed by who is before the court. Equally, the quality of inherently respecting those who find themselves in this court, those that are interwoven with the court, such as clerks, law enforcement, and doctors. Lastly, having a seasoned legal perspective and a belief that justice delayed is justice denied.

How would you ensure fairness, efficiency, and respect for all parties who come before the court?
Applying the rules of evidence and procedure consistently promotes impartiality, while each party is given a full opportunity to present their position. Avoiding unnecessary delays by timely, professionally and clearly communicating court rulings and decisions will promote transparency and trust in the process.

How do you manage heavy caseloads while ensuring each case receives appropriate attention?
Availability of the judge and court reporter will manage any heavy caseload and clear backlogs that require courtroom appearances. Meeting with the local bar to understand what they and their clients need to efficiently move their cases to resolution is invaluable. Additional measures such as using alternative dispute resolution, and expanding information on the court’s website would help citizens and attorneys alike.

What distinguishes you from the other candidates in this race?
Former judicial experience in complex civil, probate and guardianship cases (which are increasing in number) sets me apart from any other candidate. I have made judicial decisions in over 40,000 cases and in the process, cleared years long backlogs. Experienced with various size budgets used to efficiently operate a court. Also, I have taught attorneys, citizens and judges various aspects of the law. My passion for community engagement with citizens regarding the processes of the court system definitely sets me apart from others.