Criminal District Court Judge, District 263
District courts are trial courts of general jurisdiction of Texas. They 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. The courts may specialize in civil, criminal, juvenile, or family law matters. Four-year term.
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Melissa Marie Morris
(Dem)
Qualifications:
What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for this position?
Issues:
What are the two (2) most pressing issues that you will face in the office that you seek? Describe your "specific" plans/ideas for addressing these issues.
district
263rd
Education
J.D. Thurgood Marshall School of Law
Occupation
District Judge
I bring over 16 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney, where I handled serious felony cases, safeguarded constitutional rights, and worked directly with individuals and families affected by crime. That experience, grounded in my legal education and decades in courtrooms, gave me a deep understanding of what promotes both accountability and rehabilitation. As a Criminal Court Judge, I apply that perspective from the bench—holding people responsible while supporting evidence-based alternatives, treatment, and services that reduce recidivism, strengthen public safety, and promote lasting justice.
1. Reducing Court Backlogs While Preserving Fairness
When I took office, I inherited a docket of more than 2,100 cases. Through disciplined case management and collaboration, I reduced that number to fewer than 900 in my first term—improving efficiency, timely justice, and confidence in the court system.
2. Addressing Substance Use Through Smart, Cost-Effective Solutions
I am actively addressing substance use by implementing pilot programs that pair participants with peer counselors and treatment support. These programs are fully grant-funded, provided at no cost to the county, and focused on accountability, recovery, and reducing repeat involvement in the justice system.
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