VOTE411 Voter Guide

I have practiced law for more than 47 years in Texas state and federal courts and served as a U.S. Army JAG officer. That experience taught me preparation, discipline, impartiality, and respect for the rule of law. I have handled complex civil matters from both practical and legal perspectives. I would bring a calm temperament, strong work ethic, and a commitment to treating every person and every case fairly, respectfully, and according to Texas law.

Justice delayed is justice denied. I would actively manage the docket with firm, realistic scheduling; early identification of issues; efficient hearings; and clear expectations for counsel. Cases should move forward without unnecessary delay while preserving every party’s right to be heard. I would use available court technology, encourage appropriate resolution when possible, and keep the court focused on timely, fair, and well-reasoned decisions.

The most pressing issues are delay, consistency, and public confidence. A civil court must be accessible to families, businesses, and individuals who need disputes resolved fairly and efficiently. I would work to reduce unnecessary backlog, apply the law consistently, maintain a professional courtroom, and ensure every litigant is treated with dignity and respect. The bench should serve the people, not politics, and remain faithful to the Constitution and Texas law.

I have devoted my legal career to civil litigation, representing both plaintiffs and defendants and individuals and corporations. I have extensive courtroom experience in trials and hearings involving the types of cases heard in the 298th District Court. I also bring leadership, organization, and a commitment to improving systems and processes. I believe a good judge must be fair, prepared, patient, decisive, and willing to listen. I am committed to serving as a trial judge and to ensuring every litigant is treated with dignity and fairness.

Effective docket management requires organization, communication, consistency, and active judicial management. I have a plan to implement on day one. I would begin by obtaining status updates on pending cases, identifying outstanding motions, requested hearings, and cases ready for trial. I would use the same approach with new cases to establish intentional deadlines and trial settings. I would also implement regular discovery dockets and online hearing scheduling to reduce delays. My goal is a court that is organized, accessible, predictable, and efficient while always protecting due process.

In addition to the backlog, I believe access to the Court, transparency, and consistency will be pressing issues. I would establish clear and consistent procedures, improve communication with litigants and attorneys, and use technology to make the Court more accessible and reduce administrative delays. I would promptly address discovery disputes and other issues that prevent cases from moving forward. I would also seek feedback from those who regularly practice before the Court to identify practical improvements while ensuring efficiency never comes at the expense of fairness.