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DENTON - JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 3

https://www.txcourts.gov/about-texas-courts/trial-courts/ What is a Justice of the Peace? The justice of the peace presides over the justice court in cases involving misdemeanors, small civil disputes, landlord/tenant disputes and more. They also conduct inquests and may perform marriage ceremonies. County Justice of the Peace Qualifications A Justice of the Peace must meet the following qualifications at the time of appointment or election: U.S. Citizen Resident of Texas for at least 12 consecutive months Resident of the precinct for at least six consecutive months Registered to vote in the precinct At least 18 years of age Not have been finally convicted of a felony from which they have not been pardoned or otherwise released from the resulting disabilities Not have been determined by a court with probate jurisdiction to be totally mentally incapacitated or partially mentally incapacitated without the right to vote Candidates for this office generally must meet the above qualifications at the time of filing. For more information, Secretary of State Elections Division website. Legal source: Government Code, Section 27.005 Vernon's Ann. Texas Const. Art. 5, §18; V.T.C.A., Election Code §141.001

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  • Candidate picture

    TRISTA WILLEFORD
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

1. QUALIFICATIONS: Since justices of the peace are not required to be attorneys, what are your most relevant qualifications to hold this office?

2. GROWTH: The county population is expected to continue to grow. What methods will you employ to handle the increasing caseload in order to ensure fair and timely case resolution?

3. OTHER ISSUES: What other issues do you believe will be most pressing for the county Justice of the Peace courts, and how would you address them?

4. How do you maintain impartiality, given the need to raise funds for partisan political campaigns?

Campaign Phone 8178463099
Occupation SENIOR ACCOUNTANT
I bring more than 30 years of experience in accounting and financial leadership, a profession governed by strict laws, ethical standards, and constant regulatory change. My career has required accurate interpretation of statutes, consistent application of rules, thorough documentation, and impartial decision-making the core responsibilities of a JP.

This background directly translates to the JP court, where decisions must be based on facts, statute, and due process, and where efficiency and accountability matter in a high-volume setting.

In addition, my professional experience in real estate accounting gives me a clear understanding of landlords’ legal and financial obligations, while my lived experience as a former single mother provides perspective on the real-world impact court decisions have on families.

I also bring strong operational and management experience and support practical improvements such as night court to ensure the court functions efficiently.
As our population grows, caseloads will increase, and the JP court must keep pace without sacrificing fairness or due process. My approach is practical and grounded in experience.

With 30 years of experience managing high-volume, deadline-driven work, I know the importance of organization, preparation, and follow-through. That means keeping dockets moving, setting clear expectations, and applying court procedures consistently so cases are resolved efficiently and correctly.

I support tools like night court to give working residents better access to the court and to help reduce backlogs. Clear communication with litigants also matters. When people understand what is required of them, cases move forward with fewer delays and repeat hearings.

Efficiency should never come at the expense of fairness. Every case deserves careful attention, and timely resolution comes from structure, discipline, and respect for both the law and the people who appear before the court.
One of the most pressing issues facing JP courts is truancy. JP courts are often the first point of contact for families when attendance issues escalate, and how those cases are handled can have long-term consequences for students and parents.

Truancy cases require more than a one-size-fits-all approach. Many families are dealing with transportation issues, housing instability, health concerns, or lack of access to services. The court must enforce the law while also identifying the underlying issues contributing to absenteeism.

As JP, I would focus on clear communication with families, consistent application of the law, and early intervention to prevent cases from worsening. When appropriate, connecting families to available school and community resources can help resolve issues before they turn into repeat court involvement.

Handled correctly, truancy court can be about accountability and prevention, not just punishment.
Impartiality is not optional in a JP court; it is a core responsibility of the office. While judicial candidates must raise funds through partisan campaigns, the role of a judge is separate from politics once on the bench.

Throughout my 30-year professional career in accounting/finance, I have been required to apply laws, rules, and standards consistently, regardless of outside pressure or personal interest. That discipline translates directly to judicial service.

As JP, I would base every decision on the law, the facts presented, and due process. Political affiliation, campaign support, or personal beliefs have no place in courtroom decisions. Ethical rules, transparency, and proper recusal when required are essential to maintaining public trust.

The community deserves a court that is fair, predictable, and grounded in the law. My commitment is to leave politics at the door and ensure that every person who appears before the court is treated fairly!