Family District Court Judge, District 309
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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Linda Marie Dunson
(Dem)
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Melissa Fertel
(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?
Justice requires that every case be resolved fairly, efficiently, and without unnecessary expense. I will continue to actively manage my docket by setting clear expectations, enforcing deadlines, encouraging early resolution through mediation when appropriate, and using technology to improve access to the court. I am committed to treating every litigant with dignity, ensuring due process, and making timely, well-reasoned decisions based on the law and the facts. Effective case management, professionalism, and accountability reduce delays, control costs, and strengthen public confidence in the judicial system while serving the best interests of children and families.
Family courts address some of the most complex issues affecting children and families, including abuse, neglect, domestic violence, mental health, substance abuse, and family instability. The greatest challenge is protecting children while preserving families whenever it is safe and lawful to do so. As a Family District Court Judge, my role is to apply the law fairly, manage cases efficiently, ensure every litigant is treated with dignity and respect, and make decisions that serve the best interests of the child. I also believe in fostering collaboration with attorneys, service providers, and community partners to improve outcomes and strengthen public confidence in the judiciary.
I will manage my docket to minimize unnecessary delays that harm children and families. This includes setting firm but realistic timelines, encouraging early mediation and collaborative approaches where appropriate, and using technology and streamlined procedures to reduce costs for parties. I will ensure self-represented litigants receive clear guidance on process and available resources while maintaining fairness and due process for all. Every decision will be guided by the best interest of the child and the Texas Family Code’s policy of promoting frequent and continuing contact with fit parents in a safe, stable environment. Justice delayed is often justice denied for children.
One of the greatest challenges facing Family Courts is managing heavy dockets while ensuring cases are handled efficiently and fairly.
As a Family Court Judge, I will promote just, prompt, and affordable resolutions by ensuring every person is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. I will be prepared, apply the law impartially, and make decisions based on the facts and, when appropriate, the best interests of children. I will manage the docket efficiently, minimize unnecessary delays, and encourage early resolution of issues when possible. I will support mediation and other alternatives to costly, prolonged litigation. Above all, I will never forget that behind every case is a family whose future may be profoundly affected.
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