Family District Court Judge, District 245
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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Angela M. Lancelin
(Dem)
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Paula Vlahakos
(Rep)
What will you do to promote the just, prompt, and affordable resolution of cases that come before your court?
What do you consider the most pressing issues facing family court today, and what is your role as a family court judge in addressing them?
As the Presiding Judge I made a commitment to the residents of Harris County to promote a fair opportunity to be heard and ensure access to our Court to resolve disputes.
I have delivered practical solutions with procedures that allow for the quick resolution of cases. The 245th has seen transformative progress in providing resources for self-represented individuals and ensuring open access to the court. In doing so parties have access to affordable resources including the Harris County law Library, Legal Services (AVDA, Lone Star, Law school clinics), and a Pro Se Reference Guide on our Court page. My mission remains to ensure every meaningful and fair opportunity to resolve cases.
Family courts in Harris County often see high-conflict disputes evoking extremely emotional and stressful contested cases. To assist with case management the Court utilizes mediation, arbitration and discovery master's that can focus their attention on the critical issues and provide resolution. Contested custody cases over parenting time and access can be complex. A custody evaluation is an impartial tool that allows the Court to prioritize the best interests of the child. The rise of Domestic violence requires the Court to balance the safety of litigants and maintain a fair legal process. The Courts priority is to safeguard the family values of each party and apply the law without bias.
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