District courts have original jurisdiction in felony criminal cases, divorce cases, cases involving title to land, election contest cases, civil matters in which the amount of money or damages involved is $200 or more, and any matters in which jurisdiction is not placed in another trial court. While most district courts try both criminal and civil cases, in the more densely populated counties the courts may specialize in civil, criminal, juvenile, or family law matters.Qualifications to be a District Judge: Citizen of U.S. and of Texas; age 25 to 74; resident of the district for 2 years; and a practicing lawyer or judge, or both combined, for 8 years. Term: 4 years. Number: Generally, 1 court per incorporated municipality and 1 judge per court.
Having practiced extensively over my career I understand the demands of a busy district court docket and the importance of impartiality, preparation, and respect for all who appear before the court. Throughout my career as a prosecutor and public servant I have handled thousands of cases. I have tried serious felony cases, managed demanding dockets, and worked with diverse stakeholders in the justice system. I have also handled civil cases in my current position and previously as a staff attorney. This balanced background prepares me to serve impartially and effectively as a District Judge.
A District Judge should uphold the law by applying it fairly and impartially to every person who comes before the court based on the facts of each case. Also, to ensure that all parties are treated with dignity and respect. Equally important is managing the court docket efficiently so that justice is not delayed.
My top priority is to expand and strengthen our drug court program. This program not only holds individuals accountable, but also provides the support and treatment necessary to address the underlying issues of addiction. By enhancing these resources, we can promote rehabilitation, reduce recidivism, and ultimately create a safer and healthier Hays County. We have to strengthen community trust in the justice system. Trust is built through transparency, accountability, and open communication. I will work to foster meaningful engagement with the community.
For 3 years I have held this office. My Re-Election will continue my good works.
I was born in Dallas. My Father, Joe Pool Sr., served Texas as its Congressman-At-Large from 1962-1968. He died of a heart attack in 1968. 5 months later my Mother died in a fire.
I attended St. Stephens boarding school in Austin. In 1977 I graduated from UT with a BA in Government. In 1980 I graduated from UT Law School and got my Bar License.
Leslie and I moved to Hays County from Austin in 1994 and raised 2 boys here. I practiced civil and criminal law for 30 years. In 2022 I ran for District Judge and won.
The most important responsibility is to have an open mind that is fair and impartial only constrained by adherence to our constitutions and the rule of law. I have brought to this job my extensive experience in business and commercial transactions which helps me to sniff out the BS and make wise choices, especially when things aren't obvious. This discernment ability helps me in executing my responsibilities to the citizens of Hays County. My knowledge and experience is even more beneficial when you understand this job requires hearing criminal, civil and family law matters.
1. Request that the legislature change the sentencing laws so that on a 10 year range of punishment conviction I can give say 8 years in prison then start his transition into society with his last 2 years under the supervision of our Probation Department. If he can't or won't do the work in Probation, he goes back to prison.
2. Request that the legislature set up a statewide database for all the Probation and Pre-trial Departments to keep track of classes, hours, provisions and requirements of Probation & Pre-trial.
3. Allow the streamcasting of court trials and dockets not involving minors.
I am qualified through extensive legal education, advanced judicial training, and 37 years of legal experience, primarily in Hays County. I have served as an Assistant District Attorney, law firm partner, and Assistant Attorney General for Texas. Appointed judge of the 428th District Court in 2005, I served 17 years presiding over complex criminal, civil, and family cases and established the county’s first drug court. I now manage my own law and mediation practice. I am board certified in Civil Trial and Family Law, a Certified Mediator, and graduate of the Texas College for Judicial Studies.
The most important responsibility of a district judge is to protect the innocent. Sometimes that means holding defendants accountable when they hurt victims. Sometimes that means protecting those who have been wrongfully charged with a crime. At all times it means giving due process to those who come before the court, no matter their position or status in society. This is the north star that I used in my seventeen years on the bench, dealing with the intricacies of hundreds of criminal, civil, and family law cases.
My top priority if elected would be to give all those who come before the court careful consideration and full protection of their rights. Because judging requires a deep understanding of the law and its details, I would also prioritize continual training and ongoing study. Judging likewise requires compassion, helping parties move beyond their legal situations in ways that benefit both them and the community at large. Accordingly, I would prioritize active involvement in our county to fully understand and serve the needs of its citizens.
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