San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyers

DEFENDER SAN ANTONIO

A Publication of the San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

VOL. XV ISS. II | OCTOBER 2014

Election Issue

Officers Robert Featherston President Warren Wolf Vice President Patricia Jay Secretary Michael McCrum Treasurer Christopher Simpkins Editor, Defender Trisha Morales Padia Executive Director

Immediate Past Presidents Jorge Aristotelidis Jay Norton Michael Gross Jeff Mulliner John “Bud” Ritenour Adam Kobs George Taylor Stephanie Stevens Jim Greenfield Michael S. Raign John A. Convery Ernest Acevedo, III Ronald P. Guyer Mark Stevens George Scharmen Cynthia Hujar-Orr

Directors Emeritus Charles Butts Anthony Nicholas

VOL. XV ISS. II OCTOBER 2014

Features

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Board of Directors Anne Burnham Robert Barrera Edward Bartolomei Stephanie Boyd Philip Bozzo John Carrol Mario Del Prado Loraine Efron Joseph Esparza Don Flanary John Fox Paul Goeke Julie Hasdorff Juan Carlos Hernandez Brandon Hudson Nicolas LaHood John Longoria Pat Montgomery Angela Moore Jefferson Moore Joel Perez Robin Teague Aissa Strickland Chad Van Brunt

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Homeruns

by Adam Kobs

Upcoming CLEs 2014 SACDLA Judicial Candidate Questionnaire 2014 Judicial Survey

THE SAN ANTONIO CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 831206, San Antonio, Texas 78283-1206 (210) 501-2916 | sacdlA:com

Election Issue Judicial Responses - Criminal Trial Courts Incumbents listed first, with the exception of vacant benches, for which, the Republican candidate will be listed first because a Republican currently holds the office of Governor.

144th Judicial District Court

County Court at Law No. 1

County Court at Law No. 9

08 Lorina Rummel (R)(I) Paul Vasquez (D)

24 26

50 52

186th Judicial District Court (Vacant)

County Court at Law No. 2

County Court at Law No. 11

10 12

28 30

54 56

Jefferson Moore (R) Mary T. Green (D)

John D. Fleming (R)(I) Al Alonso (D)

Jason Wolff (R)(I) Jeanette Burney Sullivan (D)

187th Judicial District Court (Vacant)

County Court at Law No. 4 (Vacant)

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32 34

Steve Hilbig (R) Stephanie Boyd (D)

226th Judicial District Court Sid Harle (R)(I)(Unopposed)

Walden Shelton (R)(I) Carlos Quezada (D)

Carlo Key (D)(I) Tommy Stolhandske (R)

County Court at Law No. 12

Jason Garrahan (R) Alfredo Ximenez (Dd

Scott Roberts (R)(I) John Longoria (D)

County Court at Law No. 5

County Court at Law No. 13 (Vacant)

36 38

58

Jason Pulliam (R)(I) Brenda Levenstein (D)

Chrystal Chandler (R) Rosa Maria "Rosie" Gonzalez (D)

227th Judicial District Court (Vacant) 16 18

Kevin O'connell (R) Tony Jimenez (D)

County Court at Law No. 6

County Court at Law No. 14 (Vacant)

40 42

60 Susan Skinner (R) Ernest Acevedo (D)

Wayne Christian (R)(I) Rochelle Acevedo (D)

290th Judicial District Court 20 22

Melisa Skinner (R)(I) Jennifer Pena (D)

County Court at Law No.7

County Court at Law No. 15

44 46

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Michael Lahood (D)(I) Bob Behrens (R)

75 77 74 76 79 77 78 74 76

Judge Jason Pulliam Judge Scott Roberts Judge David J. Rodriguez Judge Liza Rodriguez Judge Walden Shelton Judge Tina Torres Judge Bill C. White Judge Jason Wolff Judge Eugenia Wright

Genie Wright (R)(I) Michael De Leon (D)

437th Judicial District Court Lori Valenzuela (R)(I)(Unopposed)

County Court at Law No. 8 48

Liza Rodriguez (D)(I) Celeste Brown (R)

64 64 70 71 69 66 69 67

Judge Mary Roman Judge Lorina Rummel Judge Peter Sakai Judge Gloria Saldaña Judge Laura Salinas Judge Melisa Skinner Judge Cathy Stryker Judge Lori I. Valenzuela

Judicial Survey District Courts 65 68 68 70 68 65 64 72 65 72 69 67 67 71 66 72 71 70 66

Judge Raymond Angelini Judge Antonia Arteaga Judge David A. Canales Judge Solomon J. Casseb III Judge John D. Gabriel Judge Sid L. Harle Judge Maria Teresa Herr Judge Lisa K. Jarrett Judge Philip Kazen Judge Carmen Kelsey Judge Janet Littlejohn Judge Michael Mery Judge Barbara Nellermoe Judge Larry Noll Judge Ray J. Olivarri Judge Laura Parker Judge Karen Pozza Judge Richard Price Judge Ron Rangel

Probate Courts 74 74

Judge Tom Rickhoff Judge Polly Jackson Spencer

County Courts at Law 75 74 75 78 77 78

Judge Wayne Christian Judge John D. Fleming Judge Sarah Garrahan Judge Monica Gonzalez Judge Carlo Key Judge Michael T. LaHood

Justices of the Peace 80 80 81 81 79 80 79 79

Judge Monica Lisa Caballero Judge William Donovan Judge Rogelio Lopez Judge Byron E. Miller Judge Jack Price Judge Jeff Wentworth Judge Roberto A. Vazquez Judge Edmundo M. Zaragoza

Homeruns

Upcoming CLEs

Don Flanary, Casie Gotro and John Hunter received a Not Guilty in their Intoxication Manslaughter trial out of the 379th. Very Nice!

Nuts and Bolts

by Adam Kobs

Nico LaHood and Woody Halstead got a quick 30 minute Not Guilty on an Aggravated Robbery case. Excellent!

November 13-14, 2014 13th (half day-new lawyer basics) 14 (all day) Central Jury Room 13.75 hours CLE, 1.0 ethics

Justin Fischer writes ‘On May 14 the 4th Court of Appeals reversed my clients DWI 3rd or more conviction in an unanimous opinion in the case of Daniel Weems v. State of Texas. The Court ruled that because the arresting officer did not get a warrant for the blood draw and State did not show exigent circumstances to support a warrantless blood draw the conviction must be reversed and a new trial held with the blood evidence suppressed. This was the first case out of the 4th Court of Appeals addressing how the U.S. Supreme Court's opinion in Missouri v. McNeely applies to the Texas mandatory blood draw statute. This was my first appellate oral argument. The State has filed a PDR.’ Great result!

Licensed - 3 years FREE, otherwise $95

Free Lunch Friday Reception TBA

New Trial Strategies Noon-1:30, 1st & 3rd Fridays each Month Liberty Bar on S. Alamo 1.5 Hours CLE

Charles Gold and Trisha Morales Padia obtained a Not Guilty on a Burglary of Habitation in the 227th. Way to go!

Jared Clayton received a dismissal after his Motion to Suppress was granted in an Unlawful Towing case out of Hays County.

Congrats!

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Free

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2014 SADCLA Judicial Candidate Questionnaire

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2014 SADCLA Judicial Candidate Questionnaire Responses

144th Criminal District Court

Judge Lorina Rummel (R)(I)

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What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Why are you seeking this office?

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Proper judicial temperament is when a judge fairly and without bias listens to all arguments presented to him or her and rules accordingly. A judge is not to have predetermined rulings on any given matter and must remain open minded to all arguments presented. A judge is to rule on legal issues after carefully and impartially listening to argument of counsel and conducting appropriate legal research if necessary. A judge is not to sit as a defense attorney or a prosecutor on the bench. A judge needs to treat all people with the same level of respect, whether they are a defendant, defense attorney, prosecutor, witness or parent. A judge is to remain calm and objective at all times and display patience. These are qualities that I emulate while serving as Judge of the 144th D. Ct.

I believe knowledge and experience are essentials in a criminal district court judge.

I have both breadth and depth of experience. I have been honored to represent one defendant at a time as a criminal defense attorney. It has been my privilege to be the voice of victims, women and children as a prosecutor. I am now utilizing my experience representing the citizens of Bexar County as Judge of the 144th. I have been a practicing criminal trial attorney and have handled felony matters for over 20 years. I have handled felony jury trials through capital murder death penalty cases and have experience in a myriad of legal issues. I have practiced in front of many amazing judges throughout my career and am able to implement what has been proven effective in other courts. I am doing my best to bring both swift and efficient justice to Bexar County.

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What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

The Supreme Court Justice that I am most influenced by is Justice Scalia. He believes in textualism – which, in simplest definition, is strict interpretation of the laws and statutory language. It is giving strict interpretation and a plain-meaning approach to statutory language. I do not believe a criminal court judge’s job is to create law, but rather, to strictly interpret the law and apply it as it currently exits. As a judge, I need to know the current status of the rules of evidence and all the interpretations. This is done by researching legal issues as they come up in court during motions and trials. Every legal issue reappears. I have created a library of legal issues that I rely upon when making judicial rulings. I am constantly updating this library. And, as Judge of the 144th, I follow this strict interpretation approach when making rulings on legal matters.

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of experts. I have both depth and breadth to my criminal trial experience.

I have been a practicing criminal trial attorney for over 22 years. I am currently a criminal District Court Judge handling felony criminal matters. I have over 17 years of experience as a prosecutor and nearly 5 years as a criminal defense attorney. I have always worked in the courtroom and have handled felony matters for over 20 years. I have worked on criminal cases at every level - early investigation, developing the case for Grand Jury presentation, plea negotiations, witness preparation, and ultimately, trial.

I have handled felony matters ranging all the way up to capital murder death penalty cases. My experience includes general felonies, special victim's cases (women and children), DWI task force (intoxication assaults, intoxication manslaughters and felony DWI) and juvenile matters. I have handled cases involving mental health issues and a myriad

What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

The most significant issues facing criminal courts in Bexar County are the sheer volume of cases, along with the recent investigation of a district court judge which potentially gives the appearance of impropriety and loss of respect in our judges. In regards to the large number of cases, I am calling my docket earlier than many judges, giving attorneys the opportunity to confer, negotiate pleas or proceed to trial. I am holding all attorneys equally accountable, requiring all to be trial ready at a reasonable setting. This process is enables the docket to move forward and dole out justice in a timely fashion.

In regards to recent investigations, I am running an extremely transparent court. When attorneys request bonds, or conditions changed, I am notifying all parties. When a matter is heard before the bench, all parties are notified and actively participate.

All hearings and discussions will include all parties.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

The most significant issue facing the 144th is the backlog of cases and the high number of cases pending in the court. This court needs consistent fairness in rulings and swift case movement by an unbiased judge. Consistent fairness means defendants convicted of like crimes receive like punishments. The docket of pending cases needs to be kept moving through the court in a swift manner. Attorneys should be put to trial in a timely man-

ner so justice can be served. Finally, a judge needs to remain neutral and rules solely on facts, without prosecutorial or defense bias. With the help of a very able court staff, we have been addressing this backlog and have moved a high number of cases off the court’s docket.

which could help move cases in a swifter manner is a more expedited discovery process. The E-discovery system is addressing this issue and as technology continues to change and improve, I am sure discovery will continue to be provided in a quicker and more effective manner to defense counsel.

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What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

The most significant distinction is our criminal trial experience. Having practiced criminal trial over 22 years, I have tried hundreds of jury trials. I have trial experience in capital murder death penalty and non-death cases, murders, sexually related offenses, manslaughters, DWI related offenses, aggravated offenses, property offenses, and drug cases. I have handled hundreds of murder cases, trying over two dozen and I have handled dozen of capital murder cases, with approximately a half dozen trials. I have had jury trials with mental health, competency and insanity issues. I have tried issues of self-defense, sudden passion and apparent danger. A judge needs a foundation of all legal issues that will be facing him or her.

Without this foundation, a judge cannot appropriately rule during motions and trials.

My opponent has focused his career on drug cases which is not the type of cases typically tried in felony district courts.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Justice would be improved if criminal defendants could be brought to trial, plea, or have their cases dismissed in a more timely manner. This could be accomplished by moving court dockets in a more expedient manner.

This could be aided with the resurrection of the Criminal Impact Court which previously existed. One of the biggest hurdles would be security requirements. Working with the new Sherriff, this issue could be addressed and perhaps an Impact Court could be reinstated and all the courts could rotate its usage. Also, the utilization of a jail court could assist in hearing matters. Another area

My parents and my husband have had a huge impact in my approach to all legal matters. I was raised in a loving home by both my parents and have been with my husband since I was 20 – so all have had ample opportunity to help influence my personality.

All three have or had a balanced approach in dealing with situations presented to them – listening to all sides, hearing and respecting all input, researching the issues, and then fairly and efficiently handling the situation at hand. I believe this well balanced approach can be implemented and utilized in efficiently running a court room.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement? What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

My greatest legal accomplishment has been my service to others during the stepping stones of my career – as a defense attorney - being the voice of defendants one at a time; as a prosecutor - representing crime victims, women and children; and then ultimately representing the citizens of Bexar County as a Judge of the 144th. My most significant personal achievement has been raising my four children. Their ages range from 11 to 20 and I am so proud that they all do extremely well academically, athletically, spiritually and have the desire to serve others philanthropically. I could not be prouder of my 4 greatest achievements! Most people know that I am athletic, but not many know that I played water polo in college, or I was a coach for years, and during college, I was not sure if I should pursue a legal career or be a swim coach.

defendants with the appropriate tools, perhaps some of the re occurrence of crime can be avoided. It is very easy to “judgment satisfy” a defendant that has served time for an offense, especially in drug and prostitution cases. However, if these individuals are sentenced to drug court or the new Esperanza court and given the appropriate treatment, perhaps some can better their lives and not reoffend. I believe in literally “putting the ball in their court” and letting them run with it. I think it is important to give them the support system and guidance. But ultimately, it is the defendant’s choice as to whether or not to re-offend. It is the judge’s role to guide that process, provide the support and tools, and hopefully lead the defendants to make the better choice.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

I believe coupling the new statute with the Brady requirements is adequate to address the necessary discovery issues. Implementation is the key and is where I believe the judges can have a significant impact. Additionally, a judge needs to make sure all items are properly and timely disclosed. This may result in judges needing to conduct more in-camera inspections. A judge will need to interpret whether or not an item of evidence needs to be disclosed. An obvious example would be records in sexual cases. These new discovery rules will require judges to assist in the proper implementation of this discovery process.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

My view of recidivism is that if we equip

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186th Criminal District Court

Jefferson Moore (R)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

I started as an assistant district attorney and the first judge I worked with was a “screamer.”

It was an uncomfortable work environment and I had to take this judge up on several writs, including my very first day in his courtroom! It was a hard way to start, but I stuck with it. One time the judge threatened to jail me with contempt charges because I refused to file a sentencing motion that only the State could file. The DA liked my pugnacity and left me in there for months to duke it out with this guy. No fun. I vowed that I would never treat anyone like that.

My view of the proper judicial temperament reflects the courtroom demeanor I have developed over the years as a trial lawyer: calm and cool. We should all be able to get along even for difficult cases.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

John Marshall became our first Supreme Court Chief Justice. No easy task to hammer out the first opinions for the new Republic’s highest court. In my view, he was a realist. To him the Constitution “was not to be applied formalistically; it must be applied in light of its purpose.” He looked at the purpose of the law and wrote opinions that supported that purpose rather than opinions that blindly supported the cold hard text. That makes sense to me and I believe it is a model for all judges who must decide what the law means.

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better the community. If everyone, including the accused, believes the system is fair, then a judge has done his/her job.

Second, I have practiced in jurisdictions where the judges were inconsistent, mean, imperious, and lazy. Having seen the “other side” I learned what not to do. I want to be a good judge for the community.

Third, I have a history of public service as a military officer and as a local lawyer. I am active with the Bar serving on the State grievance committee, the local mentoring committee, the criminal law committee and the SACDLA Board. I have been a prosecutor, a defense attorney, and a military magistrate.

All of these positions indicate service to the community.

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What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

Funding is the court’s most significant issue. A two-pronged strategy will alleviate it.

First, well-organized trial management by the court saves money by resolving cases faster.

This reduces the jail population either by TDC transfers, dismissals, or probation. I believe that more (non-dispositive) pretrial motions will help the parties make realistic decisions quicker. Efficiency saves money.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I have spent my 23 years as a lawyer principally practicing criminal law. I started as a prosecutor in New Orleans before joining the Army JAG Corps where I became a prosecutor and then later a military magistrate. I then went into private practice as a criminal defense attorney. I understand the issues for both prosecutors and defense attorneys.

During my career I have tried to verdict over 100 cases. I have practiced in four different jurisdictions (Federal, military, Texas and Louisiana). I served overseas in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East where I had indirect exposure to foreign jurisprudence. I have a broad perspective of what works and what does not.

I have written articles for publication and have made CLE presentations. Most of all, I mentor as many young lawyers as I can.

Why are you seeking this office?

First, I live here. Our community needs a healthy and robust criminal justice system.

The better the criminal justice system, the

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All of these factors make me the most qualified candidate.

Second, we must increase our funding. Besides petitioning Commissioners Court, we must prove to the community the value of a “healthy and robust” criminal justice system.

If someone in authority (like judges) would educate chambers of commerce, universities, and other community organizations on our system’s issues this will cause them to see the benefit of funding the system properly.

Commissioners Court will fund us when community leaders demand it.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

Access to the judge needs improvement. I will be available 30 minutes before docket call to handle ex parte and administrative issues.

Plus, I will start court at a reasonable time.

The courtroom effectiveness needs improvement. I have proven administrative leadership skills to get that done. I ran an office at Fort Sam Houston where I supervised a staff of lawyers, paralegals, and clerks. The ABA formally recognized us as the best military legal assistance office worldwide. The best of all, it was a happy place to work for everyone em-

ployed there. I can do the same for the 186th.

Applying easily available technology will improve the productivity of the court. I’ll explore having lawyers check in via a social media.

This technology can also provide lawyers with updates on administrative matters.

Want to know if the judge is in trial or not?

Check the court’s Twitter feed.

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how the courts operate or what are the needs of the court. Only the ones who have served on a criminal jury are informed. We need to do better in addressing numerous organizations to inform them because they have an affect on that other important constraint: money.

If we can get the community on board for better funding, the Commissioners Court will take notice. No one wants to fund something they do not understand. Community understanding can drive tax dollars to the court.

What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

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My opponent is a 28-year prosecutor for the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office. I have been a prosecutor, military magistrate, and criminal defense attorney who has practiced in varied jurisdictions (Texas, Louisiana, Federal, military). I have broader experience than my opponent. This makes me the better candidate.

The book “Alive!” records an Uruguayan rugby team’s survival after their plane crash in the Andes Mountains. The survivors endured their snowy perch for 72 days before Nando Parrado and another climbed through the mountains for 9 days to find rescuers. I admire his perseverance.

Why? I have worked both sides of the aisle. I have seen how other jurisdictions handle the odd issues that come up in trial. I have issued court orders as the military magistrate and I have sat on the tribunal for grievance committee hearings. This wide-ranging experience will benefit of all who appear before the court.

Furthermore, I have the administrative skills to improve the court’s productivity. I have already managed a staff of attorneys, paralegals, and clerks with great success while in the military resulting in an award from the ABA. VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

As mentioned above, using technology such as using free social media to increase the productivity of all involved is a measure that will improve the administration of justice. There is a lot of sitting around waiting for your case to be called.

Community education is key too. In talking to various groups during my political candidacy I learned that many people do not understand

Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

Jimmy Doolittle led the air attack on Tokyo after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor.

He basically commandeered an aircraft carrier and sailed across the Pacific with his bombers. When they took off they did not have enough fuel to reach friendly airfields in China. He planned to ditch into Japanese-held China and walk back to Allied lines. Talk about nerve!

Finally, Patton once said that a good plan violently executed now is better than a perfect plan awaiting action.

As lawyers, we need perseverance and nerve.

And Patton would say that the dispassionate motion that is filed is better than the unfiled one awaiting perfection.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement? What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

I do my best to mentor new lawyers. When I was new I appreciated any and all help for those things not in the law books. I’ve learned a lot over the years and I like to share the knowledge. Having the expertise to give helpful advice is a great legal accomplishment.

My most significant personal achievement was spending 24 years associated with the Army. I started ROTC in college and was then in all three components of the Army: Active

Army, Army Reserve and Army National Guard. There were days I loved it and others days where it built a lot of character.

One thing that people do not know about me that I think would surprise them is that I pray an hour a day everyday, rain or shine. It takes commitment to do this, but the results and rewards are worth it.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

America is the land of second chances. I know folks who screwed up their college educations, but later re-immersed themselves into their studies and prevailed. There are former criminals who have changed their lives for the better and should be given the benefit of their change of heart.

I believe that everyone deserves a second chance; however, crime that involves violence necessitates a closer look before making a sentencing decision. The physical safety of the community is a factor when determining a violent offender’s sentence.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

The new statute is a welcome attempt to prevent any future wrongful convictions. It is too early to tell whether this attempt will work or not. There may be necessary changes in the future to ensure that the innocent are not wrongfully convicted.

I used to be a prosecutor both as a civilian and as an Army JAG officer. The civilian office worked under the theory of submitting solely the bare minimum evidence required by law.

The military, however, flooded the defense with every scrap of paper that came across the prosecutor’s desk. The result? The military had more pleas and fewer trials.

As a judge I would encourage the State to provide as much evidence as possible based on my experience that openness leads a defendant to make a better plea decision.

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186th Criminal District Court

Mary Green (D)

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What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Why are you seeking this office?

Proper judicial temperament is the ability to set the tone for how business is conducted in the courtroom. A judge with professionalism, preparedness, knowledge and experience creates an environment where the parties reflect the judge’s tone. My background and familiarity with criminal cases emphasizes to me that I must establish this demeanor in the courtroom.

V After nearly twenty eight years practicing criminal law I felt I finally had the foundation needed to be a good jurist of criminal law. I have always felt that the work I did was a way of giving back to the community and I want to continue in public service.

Additionally, I became concerned by what I perceived as a dearth of qualified and experienced candidates running for District Court benches IV

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

Sandra Day O’Connor exhibits a judicial philosophy I most hope to adopt. Because she was the first woman on the Supreme Court, she recognized that she had to be outstanding in the work she did. I admire her adherence to legal principles as she saw them as demonstrated by being the swing vote in major decisions without regard for political ramifications. I also admire the work she continues to do in the area of education, particularly her work with iCivics and Our Courts, web based programs that promote civics curriculum for middle school students. It is O’Connor’s belief that “…public education is the only long-term solution to preserving an independent judiciary and, more importantly, to preserving a robust constitutional democracy…” [NY Times, Seth Schiesel, June 9, 2008].

As stated above I have been a prosecutor in Bexar County for my entire legal career.

I have tried hundreds of cases to verdict, and for the past fifteen years I have concentrated on the prosecution of violent gang members. Gang cases have inherent difficulties, not the least of which is uncooperative witnesses. I have developed close working relationships with members of the defense bar on those occasions when their clients decided to testify for the prosecution. I have been in charge of a District Court for the majority of time spanning 1992 to the present. I was dual designated an Assistant United States Attorney and prepared and successfully tried a RICO case. I was awarded Prosecutor of the Year for the entire State of Texas in 2011. I am proud of my reputation with

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regard to the evaluation of cases and fair dealing.

What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County?

What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

The sheer volume of criminal cases and the time it takes a case to come to trial is the most significant issue I have seen. This is not a new problem but new solutions seem to be difficult to find. The 186th has an efficient docket and that has been the result of much hard work by the court, the prosecutors and the defense bar. The county docket management system has increased efficiency, but it can use modifications and improvements. Any system/solution that moves cases more efficiently should be studied.

Having all dockets called at the same time is another area of concern and time seems to be wasted for all involved; I would work with other judges to coordinate a staggered docketing system.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

As stated above, the 186th has an efficient docket. I would maintain the elements of the system that are working for all parties while modifying the areas that cause concern.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

The most significant distinction between my worthy opponent and me is in terms of time in and type of experience. I have worked in almost every District Court with almost every sitting and visiting judge in the criminal justice arena. I have handled the most difficult type of cases, many of them high profile with significant media coverage. These external pressures can make an already difficult job more difficult, but I have learned to concentrate on the task at hand. I can handle the pressure of being in the public eye and base my decisions on the law and the evidence and not be swayed by external influences.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Court appointed attorneys should be paid more to incentivize more experienced lawyers to take on the more serious and complex cases. The greatest impediment of course is budgetary. I would strive to insure

that lawyers are paid fairly for the work they do and have the resources needed to properly defend their clients.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Woodward & Bernstein, who wrote All the President’s Men for insight into the corrosive effects of power; Pamela Colloff, whose work for Texas Monthly exposed the weaknesses in our justice system in her detailed stories on Michael Morton and Anthony Graves. Harper Lee, who gave us a novel about lawyers that place righteousness before all else.

Recidivism rates are alarming nationwide and in Bexar County. That being said, it is generally well known that these rates decrease with the age of the accused and that there is an enormous need for more rehabilitation, job training and re-entry programs.

It just makes sense that you cannot release a person from an atmosphere of violence and control and expect them to function well without some help. I cannot say at this point how this would affect my sentencing decisions but I recognize these important realities.

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What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

Greatest legal accomplishment: My efforts to bring justice to the most violent members of the Texas Mexican Mafia’s hierarchy. This effort spanned over a decade and disrupted four different sets of leaders of this notorious gang. Greatest personal achievement: putting myself through graduate and law school and paying off my student loans at the age of 50. One thing people don’t know: I traced, located and met my Irish birth mother, a process that took over 20 years. (See Philomena, the movie).

I believe a trial judge must trust that the parties are satisfied with the information they have been provided when the discovery acknowledgments are tendered to the court. Since this procedure has been in place for less than a year, it remains to be seen if judges need to do more.

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187th Criminal District Court

Steve Hilbig (R)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

I believe proper judicial temperament to be simply the application of the golden rule – treat others as you would like to be treated.

So the first rule is to treat all with dignity and respect. A judge should be neutral and fair-handed. There are two sides to every case, and a judge should not, either by appearance or in reality, favor one side or the other in the judge’s rulings or treatment of the parties.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

I don’t really have any justice in mind. Rather, my judicial philosophy – follow the law but temper it with common sense – has developed from my more than 37 years of legal experience and more than 150 jury trials. I have tried cases in many different jurisdictions, in both state and federal courts, and have seen what works, what a judge did that made working in that judge’s court easier, and what made working in certain judges’ courts a real chore.

III Why are you seeking this office?

In my more than 37 years of practicing law, I have spent approximately 15 years as a prosecutor, 17 years defending citizens accused of criminal acts, and 6 years as an appellate court judge. I have always enjoyed the public service component of my career, whether as an Assistant Bexar County Criminal District Attorney, an Assistant United States Attorney, the elected Bexar County Criminal District Attorney, or as a Justice on the Fourth Court of Appeals. Many of our most experienced criminal court judges have retired or will retire in the next few

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years. I hope to put my experience and legal knowledge to work for the citizens of Bexar County in a different venue.

ceive competent legal representation and those providing the legal defense are fairly compensated and have adequate resources to properly defend their clients.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I have been a lawyer since 1976. I spent four and one-half years as an Assistant Bexar County District Attorney, three years as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Texas, eight years as the elected Bexar County Criminal District Attorney, and six years as a Justice on the Fourth Court of Appeals. But this experience is balanced by spending nearly 17 years as a defense attorney representing defendants in state and federal courts. I have been Board Certified in Criminal Law since 1986 and received my board certification in Criminal Appellate Law in 2011. I have tried more than 150 jury trials, including three capital murder cases where the death penalty was imposed, numerous murders, child sexual assaults, drug offenses and other cases typical of a state or federal court practice. This combination of legal experience and criminal law expertise sets me apart from my opponent.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

The issue of indigent representation has been a major concern in Bexar County for most of my legal career. The old “San Antonio Plan” where all attorneys in Bexar County contributed either money or their time to indigent defense seemed to work fairly well, but this system was ended by legislation more than a decade ago. Whatever the form, we need to ensure indigent defendants re-

I have also noticed it takes a longer time to resolve cases due to waiting on lab results or similar scientific testing. Obviously, the solution to this problem lies with better funding for these services and this solution lies with Commissioners Court. If elected, I would speak out for solutions to these issues and other problems to build public support as needed.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

I am unaware of any specific problems or issues associated with the 187th District Court. As a judge, I would continue to work hard to handle matters that come before the court in a timely and fair manner.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

My legal experience and expertise set me apart from my opponent. As discussed above, I have more than 37 years of legal experience almost evenly divided as a prosecutor and defense attorney. I have been Board Certified in Criminal Law since 1986 and in Criminal Appellate Law since 2011 by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

I have prosecuted and defended individuals in both state and federal court. I have handled numerous capital murder cases, both as a prosecutor and a defense attorney, including three where the death penalty was imposed. I have personally handled some of the most notorious cases in Bexar County’s history. I defended individuals such as Ray Moberg (murdered his daughter whose body

was never recovered), Parker Abell (accused of attempting to hire a hitman to kill Henry Cisneros), the architect involved in the ACCD bribery scandal, and numerous others.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

I have learned that what appears to be a simple solution from the “outside” turns out to be quite different when you finally get the job. I don’t have any major suggestions for changes at the present time but I remain open to explore options as issues arise. For example, with the help of Judge Pat Priest, I suggested and helped create the “direct filing” system still used for felony arrest cases.

Through my research, I noticed that approximately one-third of all defendants entered a plea within the first two trial settings.

However, a case was not assigned to a district court until after indictment. We devised the system that had the defendant in court within 30 days of arrest with defense counsel and the state’s file to discuss possible pleas. At one point, we were resolving 27% of all felony arrests cases within 60 days of the defendant’s arrest.

lectual curiosity. I remember her reading to me while she was on maternity leave with my younger brothers. She also pushed me to do well in school. My wife and I have been married nearly 39 years and she has taught me patience and the value of considering all options before taking action. When approaching legal issues, I look at all angles, do the required research, try to anticipate the outcome of each possible solution, and then take action.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

I consider my entire career my greatest legal accomplishment. I have enjoyed every different job and the opportunity to serve the public in many different ways, from helping a victim of violent crime as an Assistant District Attorney, or prosecuting major drug offenders for Continuing Criminal Enterprise as a federal prosecutor, shaking the hand of a man charged with seven counts of sexual assault of his step-daughter after the jury returned a 45-minute verdict of not guilty on all counts, helping craft public policy regarding juvenile offenders while Bexar County Criminal District Attorney, or writing opinions applying and explaining the law as a Justice on the Fourth Court of Appeals.

My most significant personal achievement is getting my wife to marry me.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

Most people would be surprised to know I have spent more of my career as a defense attorney than as a prosecutor.

XI

My father, my mother, and my wife. My father was a plumbing sub-contractor and had my five brothers and I digging ditches and doing plumbing from an early age until we left home for work or college. He instilled a work ethic that continues today. He also taught me to question authority and not simply accept the word of those in charge of the “system.” My mother gave me my intel-

Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

to prevent him from committing his second crime. Punishment should fit the crime, but even when people are sent to prison, most will re-enter our community and should be given tools to learn to change their behavior.

Lower-level offenders receiving probation also need programs and tools to learn to live their lives as productive citizens. Accordingly, we need to tailor conditions of probation to each individual. To minimize costs, we also should partner with existing community agencies to provide services such as job training, educational advancement, drug, alcohol and psychological treatment.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

The act is a good step towards guaranteeing a fairer criminal justice system and I would like to see what issues arise after a few years of implementation. The ultimate responsibility to ensuring similar abuses do not occur rests on each participant in our justice system. Prosecutors have the duty to “see that justice is done” according to the Code of Criminal Procedure. As a former prosecutor, I am ashamed that one of my profession would withhold evidence. But defense attorneys have an equal duty to vigorously represent their clients. I have found a few attorneys that were reluctant to push a legal issue because they were afraid of incurring disfavor with a judge or prosecutor. Judges have a duty to ensure discovery rules are followed and conducting in camera inspections when requested or required. We all must diligently perform our respective duties to ensure no more Michael Mortons.

We may not be able to stop someone from committing his first crime, but when the person comes to the attention of the justice system, we ought to do everything possible

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227th Criminal District Court

Kevin M. O’Connell (R)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Proper Judicial temperament is an important part of being on the bench. Over the years I have been in many courts where the environment was one of fear. Lawyers should never have to fear the “wrath” of a jurist. Advocates will disagree on issues but everyone deserves a fair, and pleasant review of all legal and material issues, as do defendants and witnesses or victims. That is exactly what I will give them.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

There is no Supreme Court Justice that has colored my judicial philosophy. The problem is that Justice’s on the high court are biased one way or the other. I respect many of the past and present members of the Supreme Court that align with my own personal feelings about certain “hot button” issues, however I think it would be unfair to take that to the bench. My own personal feelings about issues should not bear on my decisions on the bench. Those decisions will be based solely on a fair view of the facts applied to the current state of the law whether I like it or not. An activist I am not.

are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

I have been a prosecutor for 24 years. During that time I have handled over 7000 felony cases. Included in that period of time I have served as the chief of the Bexar County DWI task force, a 1st chair prosecutor in the felony division, and liaison to SAPD homicide. I have tried literally dozens of cases with the majority consisting of murder and capital murder cases, including several death penalty cases. There is hardly an legal issue that I have not been faced with and I have developed a good reputation with the judiciary of Bexar County as well as the defense bar. I think I am very qualified as far as experience and temperament to be on the bench.

I do not see any issues specific to this court the 227th,and was not referring to any court specifically in regards to the above answer.

Judge Kazan’s docket seems to be in good shape and I would work diligently to try to improve it.

V

I remember my opponent when he was a County Court Judge years ago. I know there were some issues with temperament and demeanor, but I was not a witness to this.

There was also a lawsuit between the Judge and a member of the Police Force. That being said I have always found my opponent to be an able and knowledgeable attorney.

What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

After 24 years as a prosecutor I feel I have done it all in my current position. It is time for a new challenge, and I would like to continue serving the citizens of Bexar County.

VI

VI

What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you

What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you

Why are you seeking this office?

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What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

VIII I think the most significant issue facing the Criminal Courts is the backlog of cases and the time it takes to get a case through the system. I have been in several courts where lawyer are left to sit around waiting on a judge that is either not present, or present but doing other things. In my opinion the administration of justice could be markedly improved through efficiency. To me that means doing things on time, and while in the courtroom actually working. That means all PSI’s will be read beforehand, all issues will be addressed in a timely manner. If a lawyer is ready to proceed on a particular legal issue he/she should not have to wait several minutes or hours to do so. Over the years I have witnessed countless hours of wasted time, and as we all know, time is money.

III

VII

What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

I think efficiency will improve the administration of justice. That means none or very little wasted time. The majority of cases as we know are not litigated. Most cases are resolved through plea bargains or with some other disposition. In my opinion there are too many State Jail, or less “important” cases that are clogging the dockets. If we can move these cases through the system quicker then that will free up time and resources to deal with the cases requiring

complex litigation. And I am not suggesting that these case slow down due to Defense Attorney’s stalling. The biggest impediment to getting these cases disposed of many times is the State. They have to be forced to make decisions on these less important cases instead of, “ passing the buck”, as it were, to the next prosecutor. When you can streamline the docket it allows for more time to spend on the cases that really need the most time.

most significant personal achievement was somehow finding, and convincing my wife to marry me, and having our three boys. Some would be surprised at my devotion to all things about my 3 boys.

IX

Recidivism is a reality, that is my view. Some can be rehabilitated and some cannot. It will affect my decisions of course, but it depends on why? Some people reoffend because that is the way they have always done things.

They prey upon others and have never been able to hold an honest job. I have dealt with so many offenders that I think I am uniquely able to spot these people. There are other that reoffend due to finances or drugs etc..

In my opinion they should be treated differently perhaps and I could envision giving some folks more chances. This of course would depend on what they did and how much damage they have left in their wake.

I am very attuned to the suffering of victims and will always take that suffering into consideration, while realizing that many times the family of the offender is also suffering.

Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

Kevin J. O’Connell My Dad retired NYPD homicide Father Eddie Bernal Pastor St. Benedict Catholic Church, San Antonio Catherine Nolan X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

My greatest legal accomplishment is my longevity. I have now been litigating criminal cases for 24 years in the position as a prosecutor. During that time I have worked for different DA’s and have been in many felony courts. I have tried to learn as much as I could and tried to be as fair as I possibly could be. I have tried death penalty cases and prevailed. And although those cases are particularly complex and the results went in the State’s favor I find it hard to consider that a great achievement. It was my job and I did it well and I am happy to make the families of victims find some peace. However I never felt that celebration was in order because in those cases everyone loses and sadness is the overall feeling after trial. My

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Judge can order all things that the defense is entitled to. If a discovery motion is filed and the court rules he should if he needs to order any and all evidence and discovery that is due the defendant. It would be my hope that the State would comply with Brady and the Morton Act so that the judge would not have to get involved. However if anyone was to knowingly withhold exculpatory evidence then all legal options would be on the table.

I feel very strongly about both sides having an even playing field. That is the way I have always conducted myself during my years as a prosecutor.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

I believe the statute goes far enough , yes.

Over the years I have always done my best to turn over everything that I had to the defense. Even years ago when we did not necessarily have to turn over the file I did. I have always been a prosecutor with an open file policy, and any defense attorney who ever tried a case with me will tell you so. A trial

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227th Criminal District Court

Tony Jimenez, III (D)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

A judge should be prepared each day to give a fair and open hearing to the state and defense. The judge’s role is to listen and make a proper application of the argument and the facts in coming to a formal conclusion without bias or prejudice towards any party.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Thurgood Marshall has been most influential to the development of my judicial philosophy because of his ability to write wellreasoned opinions based on his experience as a litigator and knowledge of the law; and his intense focus on speaking on behalf of the poor and disenfranchised throughout his legal career and as a Justice.

III Why are you seeking this office?

I have more than 30 years of experience as an attorney and former City Magistrate Judge and County-Court-at-Law Judge. This experience on the bench and as a practitioner have provided me with a level of perspective which I believe will be beneficial

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in accepting the responsibilities of applying justice both in sentencing and the application of the law with regard to motions to suppress and instructions to the jury. My past experience as a judge has taught me that my role is to be a good listener and not prejudge a case or individuals involved in a case because of any outside influence i.e. special interest groups.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

After leaving the bench, I have tried hundreds of cases to jury at the federal, state and county court levels. As a former County Court-at-Law judge, I presided over hundreds of trials with a large majority of my rulings affirmed by the appellate court. I, honestly, do not remember a case in which my ruling was overturned on appeal . If I encounter a legal argument in which I am not totally versed in, I will have no problem in committing myself to further research and argument before making a decision. My experience professionally makes me the most qualified candidate.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could

help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

I believe that we need to examine more closely mental health issues and programs offered through the community supervision office in dealing with individuals who have mental health or substance abuse problems.

These programs need to be examined in order to determine their effectiveness. The courts should work more closely with experienced mental health professionals in offering alternatives or more effective programs to treatment.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

Court management has always been an issue in all the courts, not specific to the 227th District Court. I believe that case management can be improved upon by simply communicating clearly and uniformly the calendar of the day and having court staff that are mindful of the attorneys scheduling issues as well as conflicts that may arise from the docket call. It may be that a system could be established so that if the court is in trial for an extended period of time, a more balanced approach to docket call can be formulated so that defense counsel and their clients would be able to immediately confer and set matters for plea or trial without individual defendants missing valuable work

time and attorneys having more control over their own calendars.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

I am a former judge and real-time practitioner of criminal law. This level of experience makes me the better candidate.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

I’ve already addressed this in questions No. 5 & 6.

Fables” and introduction to monologues in front of the class…I bombed in front of the eighth-graders but she still inspired me! My high school Latin teacher inspired by Cicero and the Roman Senate.

individual’s entire history. Decisions as to sentencing are to be made on a case-bycase basis and I may find myself asking additional questions to determine what a fair sentence should be under all the factual circumstances.

X XII What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement? What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

Helping establish what today is the mental health competency court. I spoke out against the San Antonio Police Department continually arresting individuals with obvious mental health problems and bringing them from the jail to the court for disposition. This was in the early 80s, when mental health was not a consideration in court proceedings.

My most significant personal achievement is that as a practitioner I have not become a total cynic and believe that the law can protect individual freedoms. You don’t know that my wife and I won first place in an Arthur Murray dance competition in Austin.

Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

At this point, the statute appears to meet the Legislative mandate. It is certainly a great step forward. I believe a trial court judge, specifically, on the record, ask the state to immediately disclose to counsel for the Defendant the existence of any mitigating or exculpatory evidence prior to a plea being taken and prior to commencement of trial.

XI IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

My father because he was my father. You all know what I mean … Ms. McDonough, my fifth-grade teacher, who opened the world to me through her readings of “Aesop’s

Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Of course you look at a person’s history in making determination as to applicable punishment. Obviously, mistakes at an early age do not define who we are and you need to consider the facts and circumstances of an

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290th Criminal District Court

Judge Melisa Skinner (R)(I)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

I believe that a judge should be courteous to everyone, including the defendants who are facing the loss of their liberty. A judge should be decisive and be committed to insuring that the rights of the defendants who appear before her are afforded to them. A judge should be dedicated to following the law regardless of personal views and should do so unfailingly.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Because I believe that it is a judge’s job to insure that the rights of the accused are protected, Chief Justice Earl Warren has been the most influential to the development of my judicial philosophy. Chief Justice Warren led the Court in decisions that acknowledged the United States Constitution affords crucial rights to suspected or accused citizens. He set the standard for equal treatment of all individuals in every aspect of life in this country and in every venue, including the courtroom.

III Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking this job because it is the most rewarding job I have ever had the privilege of holding. I believe that my dedication to the administration of justice has been prov-

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en and I would like to continue to serve in this capacity.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I have been practicing criminal law for almost twenty-one years. I spent almost fifteen years as an Assistant Criminal District Attorney and practiced criminal defense for two years. I have tried to jury verdict hundreds of cases as a trial attorney, including four Capital Murder death penalty cases. I have presided as judge over more than seventy jury trials, including a Capital Murder death penalty case. None of these verdicts have been overturned. The 290th District CoPrt is one of the most efficient courts in Bexar County and I have worked diligently to insure that the rights of accused citizens of this county are protected and that they experience the fair administration of justice.

I am the most qualified candidate for this bench because my experience level far exceeds my opponent’s and I have proven my ability as a judge over the last four years.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

Because each judge individually determines how he or she will conduct court business

or how he or she will structure dockets, I will address this question in terms of what I believed that I needed to do to administer justice in the 290th District Court. When I was elected, the pending number of cases I took from another court was excessive. I addressed this backlog, consistently working hard by providing trials to those who wanted trials and addressing every issue that needed to be addressed promptly so that everyone involved could move to a just resolution. I simply believe that I need to work as long as it takes until everything that needs to be done is done. I also believe that there is not one set outcome to any case and, I believe that I need to consider every aspect of every case in order to do justice.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

I believe that I have been very successful in clearing a significant backlog that was transferred from another court to the 290th after I was elected. The 290th District Court has gone from having one of the worst backlogs to having some of the lowest numbers of pending criminal cases in the county. No one deserves to languish in a jail without justice. No one deserves to suffer endlessly the uncertainty of their future due to pending charges. I have addressed this issue with hard work and will continue to do so if given the opportunity to serve as Judge of this court again.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and

your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

The most important distinction is experience – experience in life, in the practice of law and in the daily administration of justice in a district court. My qualifications include a life-time of personal experience, almost 21 years in the practice of criminal law during which I handled thousands of criminal cases, and almost four years as a successful district court judge.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

The most significant issue that is facing the administration of justice in Bexar County Criminal Courts is the lack of options for addressing crimes committed by those who are mentally ill. As a community, we have very few alternatives to incarceration for violent offenders other than the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Each Court has, at its disposal, many alternatives for youthful offenders and considers the age of every offender at the time of sentencing. I do not believe that additional Specialty Courts should be funded before we address the needs of a greatly ignored group of offenders. Funding is always the impediment for implementing change. I will continue to advocate for additional alternatives for mentally ill offenders whether as a judge or as an advocate.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

Solomon (Biblical) Winston Churchill Abraham Lincoln X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

My greatest legal accomplishment is and has been that I am proud of the jobs that I have done whether the job was representing a client accused of a crime or representing the State of Texas as a prosecutor, or presiding as the Judge of the 290th Judicial District Court.

My greatest personal achievement has been raising three incredible children.

You would be surprised to know that I am a sucker for dogs.

XI

problems that have never been previously addressed.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

I have viewed the changes to section 39.14 to require the State to disclose any and all evidence that it has in its possession. This includes any agency or agent of the State of Texas. As such, there should be nothing more that needs to be addressed. I believe that, as a trial judge, I have the duty to insure that the State has complied with the requirements of this statute. I always inquire as to whether there are any issues as to discovery that the Court needs to address before accepting any plea or beginning a trial. I have ALWAYS inquired at the earliest setting whether there are any discovery issues that need to be addressed in order to move toward a fair disposition. Discovery Acknowledgements are signed only after I am satisfied that the State has complied and I read the statute to require that I have reached this conclusion.

Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Recidivism is just one of the many, many factors that should be considered when determining sentencing. I view much of recidivism as the result of unresolved issues and

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290th Criminal District Court

Jennifer Pena (D)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

My view of proper judicial temperament consists of a couple of things: first, a judge must show respect to all parties that enter the courtroom—I believe this is just common courtesy; second, I believe that judges must always follow the law regardless of who is presenting it; lastly, I believe that judges should keep an open mind. A judge makes life altering decisions daily and therefore must treat each case individually.

It is a disservice to our community when a judge treats their cases like an assembly line. Because everyone and every case are different, the judge must sentence the individual not the crime. People may not agree with the judge, but whether you can respect the ruling/sentence is a telling indicator of good judicial temperament II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

I would say that Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor has had the most influence on my judicial philosophy, simply because I can relate to her. Justice Sotomayor came from a very humble background. I believe when she makes decisions she draws on her background and experiences, not just from her legal career but from life in general. She makes no apologies for that and she doesn't seem to compromise or make excuses. She is a no nonsense type of person who sticks to the facts and rules accordingly.

make a difference in my community. I want to be able to tell my children that this world is a safe place, and the people who deserve second chances won't be closed off from that possibility. I believe that judges should be more than the key holders to the doors of the Texas Department of Corrections— they should invest their careers in stopping the cycle of incarceration that has plagued our justice system. That said, prison is the only recourse for many of the people we deal with in court, but there remains that group of offenders with potential. These individuals need intervention before they become the career criminals we want to protect our families from. I am seeking this office in hopes of preventing this costly cycle of incarceration.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I started my legal career as a prosecutor. I have tried many cases and served different divisions within the District Attorney’s Office. I have tried everything from DWIs to capital murder. In 2009, I left the District Attorney's Office to start my own practice.

Since then I have been defending adults and juveniles charged with misdemeanors, felonies, and federal offenses. I have had trials in both State and Federal Court. In addition to my legal experience, I have seen in my personal life some people change for the better, while there have been others who will never change. I have also witnessed what the incarceration of one person does to a whole family. I believe that my life experiences and my career as a prosecutor and defense attorney gives me the insight needed for this judicial office.

III V Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking this office because I want to

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What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the

Criminal Courts in Bexar County?

What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

The most significant issue in my opinion deals with the supervision of young people charged with nonviolent felonies such as theft-enhanced, evading or theft from a person. These individuals are young, unemployed, and sometimes homeless, yet they are placed on supervision and within 6 months pick up a motion to revoke their probation for violations that are sometimes unavoidable consequences. Many times they are allowed to continue probation, and sometimes they just want to do time in custody in order to get off probation.

They accept offers to do their 6 months or 2 years and before they are 20 they are convicted felons. They are released from prison better criminals. If elected I would start a "Young Offenders Program."

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

The most significant issues in this court are similar to those in other courts throughout Texas. There is a significant lack of personalized sentencing considerations in our justice system, and this greatly contributes to the ever-expanding prison population in Texas.

What may seem like tough justice isn't always the best option, not just for the defendant, but also for the victim and the then taxpayers. Unwarranted harsh sentences have the potential to rip families apart, and remove otherwise productive people from their communities. Likewise, unduly lenient sentences tend to re-victimize complainants that come to the court seeking justice.

Of course, it may sound difficult for a judge to honestly consider the detailed merits of every offender before the court, but this is something I am deeply committed to doing.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

The difference is I have substantial work experience on both sides. I have tried the majority of my cases as a prosecutor, including capital murder. But I have also tried cases as a defense attorney. I have handled and experienced these cases from startto-finish from both sides of the fence. I believe it takes more than just handling a few pleas before taking a job at the DAs office to understand and respect what it is like to be a defense attorney. Prosecutors are trained to look at cases as if it was a black and white issue. As a defense attorney, it’s your job to look at the whole picture and the reality is that it is usually a very grey issue. It is a very humbling and stressful experience that cannot be communicated to a prosecutor until they've experienced it from the perspective of the defense's side.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

In addition to the Young Offenders Program, I would look into opening a Restitution Center. I believe this program will allow defendants to work off probation fees, court cost and restitution. As many attorneys know probationers usually fall behind on monies and are told they are going to jail because they have not make a payment.

From there they give up and don’t report to probation for months. Eventually they are caught and revoked and sent off to TDC.

They come back as convicted felons and better criminals.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

Three non-lawyers who inspire me in how I approach legal questions are my husband, my father and my daughter.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

My greatest legal accomplishment was a trial I had many years ago in which a jury believed the victim despite all the labels that were placed upon her. I was concerned that the jury would not see past her criminal record and her legal status and deny her the justice she deserved, but they did the right thing. That case reaffirmed my belief that everyone deserves to heard.

My most significant personal achievement would be practicing law. I was always the kid in the back hoping never to speak in public; in fact, tears of fright would occur at the thought of speaking in public. Overcoming this fear was my greatest personal achievement, my wonderful family aside.

Despite being married for over eight years, there are still some folks who don’t know I am married to Jake Grohman.

guing that fact—so the punishment must fit the crime always. A judge should take into consideration that once a defendant enters the prison system, he/she will likely return. This is the reason why I want to start a Young Offenders Program that would target young nonviolent offenders to help keep them out of the prison system, much like Drug Court and the Esperanza Court.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

The Michael Morton Act is a start but I think we can do more. What happened to Mr. Morton and the many others is unconscionable. As a prosecutor, “Brady” wasn’t something we received a lot of training on.

Usually the younger prosecutors relied on the older prosecutors to define “Brady”, and that could be a good thing or bad thing, depending on what prosecutor was asked.

I think the CLE sponsored by the Innocence Project every summer should be mandatory for assistant district attorneys. I think prosecutors should put faces to these cases and understand the power that they have and how that power can affect the lives of potentially innocent people. As far as the duties of the trial judge I believe he or she should do whatever is necessary to make sure the State turns over all Discovery.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Growing up I saw many people enter the Texas Department of Corrections; very few of them came out and never went back.

Recidivism rates are high—there is no ar-

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County Court at Law No. 1

Judge John D. Fleming (R)(I)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

lar criminal court and in the adult drug court program. It is my desire to continue my service to the people of this community in the role that I can fulfill the best.

IV

Above all, a Judge must be fair, just and even tempered with all parties that appear before the court. It is the duty of the judge to set the tone of the court and to ensure that all that appear act as they should be expected.

Proper conduct also entails maintaining a calm demeanor and treating all parties and attorneys, with respect. Trying to embarrass or belittle any person, or attorney, that appears before the court is certainly not a part of proper judicial temperament, and should not occur.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

It is no easy task to pick one Supreme Court Justice that has influenced my judicial philosophy the most. In the end, I would have to choose Justice Antonin Scalia. The reason being is that as a conservative justice, he is less likely to expand the powers of the state by creating new exceptions to areas such as warrantless search and seizure. In several cases over his career, he has consistently followed a more strict interpretation of the US Constitution and been willing to apply that strict interpretation in limiting the authority of police agencies over the people.

III

What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

My experience prior to taking the bench and my experience on the bench have all qualified me for this position. My experience prior to taking the bench includes ten years as an assistant district attorney and a brief time prior to that practicing criminal defense. My entire legal career prior to becoming judge was in the realm of criminal law. Additionally, my experience over the past few years as judge of this court has only added to and refined my knowledge of what is required for the position. It is my belief that my experience, while not as great in number of years, is greater than that of my opponent. Additionally, I use my experience and knowledge to make the correct and just rulings on cases before me consistently and do not ever favor any side.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

tion numbers. Both of these issues lead to outside pressure to move dockets as fast as possible which does not always lead to cases getting the proper amount of consideration. I believe that one way to improve these matters would be through greater utilization of the existing treatment courts as jail diversion programs. There are certainly offenders incarcerated that could benefit from these programs and provide a benefit to the community.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

Aside from the issues facing all of our criminal courts, handling a full criminal docket as well as the adult drug court presents challenges as well. The primary challenge is in having a docket schedule for the drug court that does not take too much time away from the criminal docket. Over this term I have refined the schedule for drug court and had changes implemented to the program to better identify appropriate candidates for the program. This includes complete assessments being completed for persons being referred to the program prior to acceptance, as opposed to those assessments being conducted after drug court acceptance as was done in the past. Over the past few years my drug court team and I have identified issues that have needed to be addressed and made the appropriate changes. In doing so, we increase the effectiveness of the program and of the court.

VII

Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking this office because I believe that I am the most qualified candidate for the position. Over the past term, I have developed greatly as a judge, both in the regu-

24

The most significant issue facing the courts in Bexar County is one that has been in existence for many years and that is caseload. Each month, there are a vast number of cases being filed in our courts. Another significant issue is always the jail popula-

What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

The most important distinction between my opponent and I is our temperament and attentiveness. It is vital for a judge to be even tempered and listen fully to the parties in a case and pay very close attention to the evidence in order to make a correct ruling on matters before the court. My level of care in paying close attention and my great desire to make legally correct and fair rulings certainly make me the better candidate for the position.

phasis on doing what is right and in coming to the correct answer.

VIII

Other than being named a Rising Star lawyer, the greatest honor and compliment of my career as a lawyer came at the end of the trial of a felony DWI I prosecuted. In a case in which I recommended probation, and the plea was busted, I all but agreed to probation in my argument on punishment to the jury. The day after being scolded by that judge, I was complimented on my courage in standing by my convictions. To this day, that is the greatest legal honor I have received.

Outside the legal realm, I feel my greatest personal accomplishment has been in helping to raise three children who stay out of trouble and are studious and respectful.

One thing about me that may not be widely known is that I enjoy learning about chemistry and physics and actually have taken a few graduate courses in chemistry.

What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

The biggest impediment to efficient administration of justice in Bexar County is the sheer number of cases that are filed. The solution would have to be a more efficient pre-trial process. This is really dependent on counsel for the state and defense in many respects but the court can influence this by pushing cases to trial as quickly as possible.

Over my next term, I would plan to further refine our docket system in this court and continue to move cases as quickly and fairly as possible.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

Dr. Richard Fleming, Gene Fleming and Dr. Richard Feynman are three people who influence my thinking and how I approach legal issues. These three individuals influence my thinking in all realms through their em-

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

also tend to have a higher quality of life after completion of these programs. This is in work, family and all areas of life. In the end, harsh sentencing is not always the answer but there are alternatives to address recidivism.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

At this time, I do believe that the Morton Act goes far enough, particularly when prosecuting attorneys act ethically. I believe that the duty or role of the judge comes through the enforcement of discovery orders and making the proper ruling if it is shown that a discovery order or obligation was violated.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Recidivism is a concern not only in Bexar County but nationwide. This affects my sentencing by encouraging me to further utilize our specialty court programs. The reason is that statistics show that people who complete a drug court program or similar programs have a recidivism rate that is half the recidivism rate for the general rate. In addition to the reduced cost to the county through these individuals not being rearrested and incarcerated, these graduates

25

County Court at Law No. 1

Al Alonso (D)

II What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

For a Judge to have “proper judicial temperament” he/she needs to be a good listener, have patience, and be able to control his/her temper. A judge should give both sides an equal opportunity to be heard. Sometimes just venting can be therapeutic and letting the parties express themselves gives them the satisfaction that the court is giving them a fair hearing, even if at times you have to rule against them.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Chief Justice Earl Warren the most influential in development of my judicial philosophy. Justice Warren believed in the rights of man. Philosophically I believe what he stood for in expanding the scope of constitutional civil liberties and how his emerging judicial activism penetrated major court decisions. I embrace the values which the Warren Court decisions expressed, ending school segregation, requiring “one man – one vote” rules of apportionment of Congressional Districts and Miranda v Arizona having the accused advised of their rights.

III Why are you seeking this office?

In the years I presided over County Court at Law No. 1, I started the first Drug Court in Bexar County, and led the initiative for five (5) additional Drug Courts: Mental Health, Family, Felony, Veterans, and DWI. Additionally, I held a Night Drug Court to accommodate participants who, due to recent job hires, could not come during the day. I brought the Courts in Schools Program to Texas for Middle & High School Students in Bexar County.

Some of these cutting edge programs have

26

ceased to exist under the current Judge. I would like the opportunity to return to the bench to continue to enhance, not break down programs that work! I wrote a Master’s thesis on “Best Practices for Drug Courts” and those practices are not being followed. There is so much more that can be done to improve our judicial system and help strengthen our problem-solving courts.

stance abuse problems, yet only 8 per cent of inmates ever get treatment.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I am Board Certified in Criminal Law with over 40 years experience in the Criminal Justice Field, 16 years Judicial experience. I hold a Master’s Degree in Judicial Studies from the National Judicial University of Nevada. During my years on the bench, County Court No.1 was always 1st or 2nd in the collection of fines, court costs and probation fees, and my last 5 years on the bench (2005-2010) our court was No.1, and collected the most money for the County. I served as Judge Presiding over all of the County Courts at Law. The programs I started as Judge of County Court No. 1 have proven effective in lowering crime, saving the tax payer money, re-rehabilitating nonviolent offenders, and re-uniting families.

The presiding judge has had no jury trials this year. As a consequence, his disposition of cases has decreased and the court has a larger back log. He has done away with the Night Drug Court, and the “Courts in Schools” Program.

The Night Court gave our Drug Court participants an opportunity to work full time, or be full time students, have weekly U/A’s, twice a week AA/NA meetings and weekly therapy sessions.

I plan to try more cases and dispose of more cases. Our court was engaged in community outreach. An example, in 2003 as Judge, I went before Commissioners’ Court and had every middle/high school declared a site where court could be held. We established the Courts in Schools: Critical Choices/Courageous Decisions and by recruiting some of my colleague Judges, addressed thousands of students on the dangers and consequences of drinking and driving.

V

VII

What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

The most significant issue facing the Criminal Court is that drugs and alcohol fuel our criminal justice system. For far too long we have been incarcerating people for having a brain decease (that’s the definition of addiction), instead of treating people. Most people when arrested are high on drugs or alcohol and most people incarcerated have sub-

The most important distinction between me and my opponent are qualifications. As mentioned before, County Court at law No. 1 is a Criminal Bench. I am Board Certified in criminal law, my opponent is not. Instead of moving forward some of the innovative programs I had started, he has discontinued them. In our Community Outreach, we brought in resources for drug court participants and their families.

Each day, I worked hard to be the best judge I could possibly be. I used my vacation time to attend the National Judicial College to receive my Masters in Judicial Studies (this is where I learned about Drug Courts.) We ran one of the most efficient and productive courts in Bexar County, keeping one of the lowest case loads, and efficiently disposing of cases.

Since I left the bench, my opponent’s stats, for the most part, have been mediocre.

One person who inspired me was my Court Coordinator for the 13 years that I was on the bench. He was always thoughtful in how defendants were treated with fairness, dignity and respect.

My wife is also another person who has inspired me. A lifelong community leader and outreach person, with common sense, layman knowledge, she has taught how to utilize community resources to help others in need.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

My Master’s thesis was in “Best Practices for Drug Courts.” I plan to bring that expertise of my studies to correct and continue to enhance the drug court programs. The trend in criminal justice is more to rehabilitation and treatment. More prisons and jails are not the answer. This doesn’t mean the violent offenders do not need to be incapacitated and incarcerated, as most criminologists agree. However, most of the inmates are non-violent offenders that have an addiction.

The biggest impediment is that our society and our decision makers believe in allocating more money to incarceration instead of prevention and treatment. I will continue to work to create more community awareness to the problem.

In December 2010 I established the “Therapeutic Justice Foundation” a non-profit whose mission is to support and enhance the Drug & Problem Solving Courts programs.

Our ultimate goal is to establish a self-sustaining drug court program in Bexar County.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

A third person would be my spiritual advisor who encouraged me to reasch out to our jail population and bring them the little peace they could enjoy.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

My greatest legal accomplishment if getting my Master’s thesis approved and receiving my Master’s Degree in Judicial Studies. It took me seven years, but it helped me be a better judge. My most significant personal achievement was becoming a student of Christian Science 28 years ago.

What would surprise most people about me me is that for years I have been with a church member teaching a Bible study twice a month at the Bexar County Jail.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

My view on recidivism depends on whether the repeated crime is non-violent or a violent crime. Most criminologists tell us that the violent offender needs to be incarcerated for protection of society. It is too costly to keep individuals incarcerated for non-violent crimes. I would tend to try to help the nonviolent offender and find solutions to address

his problems. This is why I believe in giving the non-violent offender a second chance, especially repeat offenders with substance abuse problems that need the holistic approach of drug court programs. Drug Court programs bring the judicial system and the medical model working together to help the offenders recovery. We try to help the individual first with his human needs – food, shelter, jobs, and education. This holistic approach includes networking with community resources in helping a person become a productive citizen.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

I think every Texan is harmed by a justice system that is too concerned with winning in the courtroom at all costs. My job as a judge is not to rubberstamp the arguments of the District Attorney nor to favor criminal defendants.

I believe strongly in the principals outlined in Brady v. Maryland, which are now codified in Texas law with the passage of the Michael Morton Act. All exculpatory evidence should be presented to the defense in order to ensure that the truth can be determined. While the Michael Morton Act’s passage has been controversial, it is important to note that one legislative act cannot solve a problem.

A possible solution is to return to our core principles in the law. Preventing wrongful convictions requires not just equal access to exculpatory evidence, but also a strong exclusionary rule that prevents gaming the system of evidence by attorneys.

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County Court at Law No. 2

Judge Jason Wolff (R)(I)

I

IV

What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

A judge should be respectful, thoughtful, and patient while expecting the same from the attorneys who appear in court.

III

Before taking the bench in 2011, I was a felony prosecutor with the Bexar County D.A.’s Office and had tried almost 100 jury trials, ranging from misdemeanor D.W.I and Assaults, to felony offenses including Aggravated Robbery, Drug Possession, Arson, and Murder among others. I also served in the White Collar Crime Division prosecuting employee thefts and abuse of power cases.

In my first year on the bench I heard over 40 jury trials, more than any other court. In 2012, I was elected Administrative Judge by my peers. I received an A rating from attorneys in a recent survey by S.A. Scene magazine.

Why are you seeking this office?

V

I originally sought the position because of the backlog of cases that existed in the Court. The majority of cases were several years old and no one should have to wait that long for their day in court. I have since taken County Court 2 from the biggest backlogged court to the most efficiently run court, reducing the docket by almost 60% and the trial docket by almost 90%.

What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Supreme Court Justices are influential in so much as they guide my decision process according to holdings and precedents set in the cases they decide.

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Funding indigent defense imposes a large and unavoidable tax burden on Bexar Coun-

ty’s citizens. Defendants are appropriately entitled to adequate representation even when they cannot afford to hire an attorney.

I am concerned that the County Manager is more focused on keeping costs down, than the rights of the accused and fairly compensating the attorneys who represent them. The current wheel system works and doesn’t need to be replaced with a less expensive system that provides a lower quality of representation. These attorneys are qualified, work hard, and should be paid their value.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

The majority of cases handled at the county court level are D.W.I. related. I try to impose appropriate monitoring conditions to protect the community from any future danger while taking into consideration the rights of the accused and the stage of the legal proceedings. I have always tried and will continue to take an approach that is tailored to the case at hand.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

I believe there is a vast difference in the quantity and quality of experience as it relates to handling criminal matters, and therefore am the better candidate.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Justice doesn’t stop at sentencing. Not all individuals placed on community supervision should be treated alike. It is important to take into consideration a person’s history and current circumstances. Because Bexar County Adult Probation Officers are often overloaded in the number of cases they manage, the volume alone can impair the time and attention an individual probationer may receive. As a Judge, it is therefore important to take a critical look at the recommendations submitted by the C.S. Department before taking action. I would like to see a decrease in the number of cases an officer manages and will advocate for an increase in funding to make the necessary changes.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

My faith, family, and friends inspire my approach to life; case law inspires my approach to legal questions.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

Being elected to the bench has been my greatest professional honor. Raising my children, while still “a work in progress,” has been my most significant personal achievement. I was once a member of the Screen Actors Guild.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

question of addiction or mental issues, then there is a place for that too.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

Before this Act was passed, the State had and continues to have a more encompassing Brady obligation. I would prefer the Morton Act have greater reach. The documentary “An Unreal Dream: The Michael Morton Story” should be required viewing not only by prosecutors, but by all players in the criminal justice system. It was a tragic event, and the punishment, or lack thereof, handed down to Ken Anderson was similarly tragic.

Judges cannot, nor should they, be privy to the State’s evidence, which makes it difficult, if not impossible, from preventing this in the future. A stronger sentence to Ken Anderson would have at least sent a more powerful deterrent message.

More often than not, recidivism is spurred by addiction or mental issues gone untreated.

I try to have individuals assessed to determine if treatment is needed and desired and will do all that I can to provide it. If it isn’t a

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County Court at Law No. 2

Jeanette Burney Sullivan (D)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

According to the American Bar Association, judicial temperament means that a judge exhibits “compassion, decisiveness, openmindedness, sensitivity, courtesy, patience, freedom from bias and commitment to equal justice.” Judges are all lawyers, and lawyers are advocates. Judges get in trouble when they slide back into the advocate role instead of maintaining distance and perspective. Francis Bacon said great judge sees the whole picture, perhaps the picture advocates cannot themselves see, because she doesn’t allow herself to become impassioned by the facts, personalities, or any other influence. This is proper judicial temperament, in my view.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Earl Warren is my choice. He saw the individual as person protected by the Constitution from government error. He said, “[T]he police must obey the law while enforcing the law.” In Brown v. Board of Education (1954), he wrote what is a defense of individual rights over government habits, rituals, and programs: “In the field of public education the doctrine of 'separate but equal' has no place. Separate educational facilities are inherently unequal." In 1961, he supported the decision in Mapp v. Ohio, which declared that evidence gained through unlawful search or seizure could not be used against a suspect.

In1966 came the oft-quoted Miranda v. Arizona decision. He made me see the why and how of Constitutional protections of individuals with these and other decisions.

III Why are you seeking this office?

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I was raised in a family where service to others was the measure of a person, not money or fame or even intellect. I can serve in the capacity of judge, and I offer my service to the people of Bexar County.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I have practiced criminal law since 2006, and I was licensed to practice law in Texas in 1997, but my qualifications started before then. I taught public school for 18 years, serving students from blue collar communities from which came the families and personal problems we see in our defendants: addiction, poverty, violence, and mental illness. About 20% of my current practice is in CPS cases in Children’s Court. When I look out from the bench at the defendants before me, I will be seeing their actions in the context of their circumstances. I do not claim to be “soft on crime,” and I doubt anyone would describe me that way, but I will know what I am looking at when I look at the behavior of defendants. A judge should understand her community, the community that produces people who end up in criminal court. I do.

tual trial, this amounts to gross underpayment of defense attorneys. The result is that many capable defense attorneys have left the misdemeanor appointment wheel, leaving those defendants in the hands of a largely new set of attorneys. The advantage is clearly the state’s, as fighting these cases costs attorneys time, and that means money. There are other issues, but none that can be comprehended in 150 words.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

The incumbent has cleared much of the backlog of cases he inherited. Justice appears to be swifter in County Court 2, and that is a plus, it must be admitted. But a fast result is not always a fair result, and anyone familiar with our courts will know that some cases must be accorded much more time than others. Some of our County Courts appear to be abandoned in the afternoons, especially on Fridays, but we are told there is no time for motion hearings, for instance. I would be certain to give the taxpayers what they are paying for, which is my availability all the day long.

VII

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

The most significant issue facing our courts is the avalanche of cases without the budget to handle them all fairly. The most recent major development is the cap pay for misdemeanor appointments: $140 for cases that do not go to trial, with no itemization allowed. For those who fight a case up to trial and obtain a favorable result with ac-

What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

The most important distinction is that I have had more real life experience with the people we handle on a daily basis in these courts. See my answer to question number 4, please.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the

administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Personal achievement: attending and ďŹ nishing law school, which was a lifelong goal.

See my answer to question number 5, please.

Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

What people do not know: I have sung opera and oratorio.

XI

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

My Father He would not buy us a television set and instead invited us to argue issues in our living room in the Socratic way, with him taking a position and asking us to discuss it and its alternatives to see the truth in the end.

My High School Debate Coach She was herself no debater, but encouraged me to attend tournaments and through the tournaments I learned to argue opposing sides.

A judge should not begin his thought process by looking at the end result and tailoring the decision to support it. Rather, he should remain detached and attentive to the facts of the case before him. Recidivism is a deeply entrenched problem in our society, and there is a limit to what courts can do.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

My Pastor, Reverend Gibbs For maturing my view of humans and their motivations.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

Francis Bacon said, “Life and liberty can be as much endangered from illegal methods used to convict those thought to be criminals as from the actual criminals themselves.� If the courts do their job, and attorneys for the state live up to their oaths, this situation would not happen.

Legal accomplishment: the victory of DUBose v. Meyerland Community Improvement Association, a case against my homeowner association because they would not allow the posting of political yardsigns. The property code was amended to prevent HOAs from doing this.

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County Court at Law No. 4

Jason Garrahan (R)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Patience and reliable. Patience because it sometimes takes time for fair and impartial justice. A reliable judge is timely and predictable. Timeliness is key for a court to run efficient and effectively. Predictable for following the law and statutes, a judge should be predictable.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

I can’t say I have a particular Justice that has influenced me independently. The opinions of the Justices I review on a case-by-case basis and for the ability to follow the law and apply the law to each case. I do have Judges in Bexar County that I consider to have influenced me almost on a daily basis such as Judge Sarah Garrahan, Judge Sid Harle, and Judge Pat Priest, just to name a few. Their temperament and knowledge of the law and applying the law are the reasons they have influenced me and many others.

plain disregard for justice. I want the opportunity to serve our community by seeking justice on the bench.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I graduated St. Mary’s Law in 2004 and passed the bar the same year. I was certified in mediation in 2004. I have been an Assistant Criminal District Attorney for the last 9 ½ years and have worked on thousands of criminal cases ranging from class C misdemeanors to capital murders. I have tried approximately 100 criminal jury trials and numerous bench trials, including over 50 DWI trials that are large portion heard in County Courts; and I have evaluated thousands of DWIs while in intake division. I have personally handled thousands of criminal actions by plea, trial, or dismissal. For the last 9 ½ years I have been in a trial court and deal with the day-to-day operations of running a court efficiently and effectively. I am the most qualified because of my knowledge of the courts and my experience in making tough decisions.

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III Why are you seeking this office?

Why am I seeking to be Judge of County Court-at-Law #4? I want to represent the justice system with a common sense and reasonable approach that follows the law. I see at times the justice system; I love, being misused because of inexperience or just

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What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

One of the main issues in the court system

is timeliness and reliable, punctual judges.

Time is important to everyone, not just to attorneys, but to victims, witnesses, and defendants. If I am elected I promise to respect all individuals with timeliness.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

The current County Court #4 has been run efficiently for several years and I hope to keep that tradition alive. Courts in Bexar County have the constant issue of jail overpopulation and that can be handled with efficient review of individuals’ case/s to determine expediency of resolutions in bonds, pleas, trials, and motions in a timely manner.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

I have experience in the legal field with approximately 100 jury trials. I have evaluated thousands and thousands of criminal cases as a trial division attorney. Also, I did not start my career as an attorney, I operated my own restaurant business here in San Antonio from 1997-2009, Hungry Farmer Steakhouse on Blanco Road. I know how difficult it is to be under the pressure of owning and operating your own business; as do many sole practitioner attorneys run their single man/woman offices. I ran my restaurant efficiently and effectively for 12 years until I chose to focus on my legal career. The

knowledge I have gained as a small business owner combined with my legal career gives me the unique viewpoint of conflict resolution and making tough decisions in my private business and legal career.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Holding the system accountable for its actions and maintaining a reliable and timely docket by the courts. Develop a system across the courts to uniform the dockets and expedite resolution for criminal cases.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

My Father When I got hired on at the DA’s office my father said, “Just remember their not all guilty.”

I have remembered that and hold that as a testament to always seek justice and not convictions.

My Mother My mother is one of the most compassionate individuals I know. She raised me to always seek the best in individuals and to give the person a chance. I believe in seeking the

best and allowing an individual to show you their best.

My Granny My Grandmother ran her own business for 25 years and was the one of the hardest working persons; she never learned to drive and raised two children on her own. She spoke directly and with common sense. Her common sense and hard work is what influences me with how I approach legal questions.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

I have never tried a case that I did not believe sought justice and I never will. Justice requires common sense and reasonableness; I apply these on a daily basis. I truly believe in the justice system and I seek justice, not convictions. Something people don’t know about me that would surprise them… I ran my own restaurant business for 12 years and went to law school during that time and did not take a day off for one year I was either in law school or working Sunday through Saturday.

in a positive direction. Recidivism can be combated at the misdemeanor level better with rehabilitation rather than jail time in most cases.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

I also think that if the prosecutor in the Morton case followed the law and oath that he took this sort of crime should not have ever happened. I have always prided myself in disclosing everything and anything to defense as a prosecutor; that is the duty of a prosecutor. It is in the code that a prosecutor is to seek justice, not convictions and I also believe that is the duty of all attorneys.

If prosecutors followed this statute they would be upholding the law and not answering to the win column for an overzealous prosecuting attorney. Justice should never have to answer to a win/loss column, because justice is not a game.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

At the misdemeanor level you have the chance to rehabilitate an individual and give that person the ability to redirect their lives

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County Court at Law No. 4

Alfredo Ximenez (D)

I

III

V

What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Why are you seeking this office?

What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County?

What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

I believe judges must provide fair access to justice for all individuals. We must be able to ensure fair representation of both the state and defendant. This must be done regardless of what financial resources are available.

Judges must keep an open, unbiased mind and provide a fair and accurate application of law on a case by case basis. As a judge we must take into account all factors which impact each case. When someone is accused of a crime, it not only affects the individual. It affects his family, his job, his economic status and ultimately his entire life in general. As judge you cannot “paint with a broad stroke”.

You must accept the facts as presented and fairly apply the law. However, compassion must come into play when administering punishment. We cannot punish with a broad stroke and must take into account why the accused is before us.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Thurgood Marshall would be the Justice who shaped my view of what “justice” is and how it should be applied. Justice Marshall always fought for the underdog. He truly helped people when they were in most need of help. He continually, throughout his career as a lawyer and a Justice, stepped in to prevent injustice throughout the United States. My entire career as a lawyer has been dedicated to criminal defense. The day I started Law School, I knew this was my calling. My thoughts never faulted. I knew I had to step up and represent people who couldn’t speak for themselves, just as Justice Marshall. I knew my job would entail me defending people’s rights against unfair intrusion and unjust application of the law. I was ready for the challenge and have been doing so since the day I passed the Bar Exam.

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I am seeking this office because my life experiences have taught me to help individuals whenever or wherever I could. As a judge, we are placed in a position where our decisions greatly affect and individual’s life. These decisions are not to be taken lightly. I was born, raised, and fully educated in San Antonio. I have seen the good and the bad in my community. Sometimes the line of fairness is blurred. The poor and uneducated are often overlooked or eliminated from the fairness component in our system. As a judge, I will insure everyone who comes before me is treated the way I would want a member of my family treated. They will be treated with compassion, dignity and respect. Individuals appearing before me will never be treated like a defendant; they will be treated like a human being because “not everyone arrested is guilty”.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I have been a practicing criminal defense lawyer since passing the Bar exam in May of 2003. I have practiced in 12 different counties in Texas, The United States Federal District Court in the Southern and Western Districts. My practice has been solely devoted to criminal law. I have experience preparing a criminal defense case from retainer to and through trial. This experience illustrated to me what being a “real lawyer” entails. I prepared my entire case, I drafted my motions, I interviewed witnesses and victims, I did the legal research for suppression issues, I visited the crime scene. My opponent spent his entire legal career as a DA having things handed to him. This does not provide you with a view of real life lawyering or dealing on a one to one basis with people and seeing firsthand what impact your decisions will have on a person’s life.

Proper and prompt compensation for court appointed attorneys is a huge problem within the Bexar County Criminal Courts. Proper compensation for work in any profession is necessary to produce quality results. This is especially true in our Misdemeanor courts.

I plan to work with Commissioners Court to help develop a plan where attorneys are properly compensated and paid in a timely manner not forcing lawyers to wait as long as 2 months to be paid for their work.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

Allowing cases to sit and languish on the court dockets is a big problem. These cases need to be moved through the system and disposed of as soon as possible. Cases being reset due to missing witnesses, police officers, etc. must be dealt with or dismissed.

Changes I would make would entail a “No Bluff Policy”. If you announce you are ready for trial at trial call docket, absent extreme unforeseen reasons, you will be picking a jury very soon. This will apply to the state and defense. If pleas are to be worked out, they must be worked out at trial call docket and not the date of trial. Once you have committed to the other side preparing, state or defense, you will go to trial.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

Real life experience as a lawyer separates my opponent and I. I have been in solo practice as a lawyer since passing the bar exam. I have been in the trenches day in and day out. This has provided me with a unique perspective of what being a lawyer is all about. I’ve seen how poor decisions by the judiciary have greatly impacted individual’s lives. I have represented Veterans in their 80’s who made one mistake in life and now the state wants to deprive them of the very liberty they fought for in time of war.

I experienced a total lack of compassion from the bench. This will not happen in my court. My opponents experience as a prosecutor has deprived him of real lawyer experience. Prosecuting deprives you of seeing what your decisions produce.

A judge must be aware of this at all times.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Change usually goes hand in hand with rising costs. We must use funds available to make changes which will further the administration of justice without causing higher costs. We need to restructure programs not being utilized sufficiently or properly and make them more available to our judiciary for use to aide the citizens of Bexar County. As previously stated, we as judges, must work as a cohesive unit to further the efficient operation of our court system. Finding monies needed to pay court appointed attorneys. Working with our probation department to help defendants find employment and training. This will allow individuals the help to deter themselves from reentering the system.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

My father – for showing me everyone deserves a chance at success. If they fall, extend your hand and pick them up, dust them off and try your best to help them get back on their path.

My brother – for showing me dedication to a cause can help you in the long run even if you don’t see immediate results, you must keep at it.

80 year old War Veteran client – showed me how a man can fight for his country, live a good life, have a lifetime of hard work and struggles, and have one arrest practically destroy him. I watched him weep in fear of what the results of a court case can do to a man. A man of duty, courage and honor brought to tears over a mistake. It made the dismissal that much more rewarding.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement? What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

My greatest legal accomplishment is being successful as a criminal defense lawyer and doing what I love. I enjoy helping people and seeing them walk away knowing they were treated with dignity and respect even if they didn’t have a dime in their pocket.

My most significant personal achievement is being a 1st generation college graduate in my family. This was only achieved thought my family’s hard work and support, and for this I thank them One thing people don’t know about me: I love horses and I know how to team rope.

I believe everyone deserves a chance. We all have situations in our lives which cause us to stumble. Recidivism may have many causes.

As a judge, we need to make sure we are helping individuals who are faltering by finding out what is the cause and addressing that issue. We cannot simply treat the outcome by incarceration. We are public servants and must do exactly what our job entails. I will do my best to make sure the victim in a case receives the proper relief in their particular situation as well as assist the accused in not replicating the behavior which brought him before me. If in a particular instance, it has been exhibited to me the accused is simply being defiant and leaves the court no options, then incarceration will be an option.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

The Morton Act has brought the age of “discovery” to a new dawn. This has leveled the playing for discovery issues and made an example of what will happen should a DA withhold exculpatory evidence. It holds individuals feet to the fire, so to speak. I personally think it should be extended to include “missing witness” as exculpatory evidence to eliminate the “bluffing” aspect of a case. In my opinion, this is not seeking justice, its lying to get a conviction. As a trial judge we must carefully evaluate any implications of misconduct or the attempt to introduce newly found evidence should the situation ever occur. Judges need to make sure all efforts have been made to produce exculpatory evidence in compliance with the Michael Morton Act.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

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County Court at Law No. 5

Judge Jason Pulliam (R)(I)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Judges should treat all litigants and counsel with the utmost respect and dignity. I believe that all citizens are entitled to receive the highest degree of professional courtesy from their judges. Judges should also seek to maintain discipline and order in the courtroom. This can be accomplished without being disrespectful to counsel and their clients.

Bexar County enjoys a positive reputation regarding the interaction of counsel. I will continue to encourage counsel to be cordial to one another while zealously representing their respective clients.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Chief Justice John Marshall. Chief Justice Marshall authored the 1803 United States Supreme Court opinion in Marbury v. Madison. Chief Justice Marshall established the principle of judicial review in that case.

Judicial review, in large measure, allows courts to interpret laws to determine their compliance with the constitution. Judicial review must always be tempered by the principle of judicial restraint. I am an adherent of the philosophy of judicial restraint.

Judges should respect and follow the law as written. Judges should make their decisions based upon existing constitutional law, statutory law, and case law.

III Why are you seeking this office?

I am running for reelection because I have a deep and genuine passion for public service.

I was raised to believe that those who have achieved some measure of success owe an affirmative obligation to give back to the community. I served as a United States Ma-

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rine to fulfill a duty I believe I owed to our nation. I am driven by the same sense of duty in seeking this office. In addition, Bexar County deserves the most qualified person to serve as judge of County Court at Law No.5. I believe my extensive and diverse legal experience makes me the best qualified person to serve as judge of this court. Lastly, I have established a solid record and reputation at the courthouse as a judge equipped with the skills to handle civil and criminal cases. I believe the citizens of Bexar County can benefit from my continued service.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

As a United States Marine, I defended Marines and Sailors charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses. I humbly accepted the Defense Counsel of the Year award in 2002 for my criminal defense work. I constantly read and research procedural, evidentiary, and substantive legal issues to ensure that I make the best decisions in the cases assigned to County Court No.5.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

The state and defense will continue to be affected by the changing nature of scientific evidence in criminal cases. Courts must continue to resolve issues related to blood testing and analysis, the application of breath testing science, and ensuring that indigent defendants receive representation that comports with the dictates of the Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution. I believe it is incumbent upon judges to ensure that attorney assignments comply

with Chapter 26 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, but ensure that each defendant has the full opportunity to present a defense to the charges filed against him/her including motions to suppress and challenges to expert testimony. I will continue to use the one day deferred adjudication option for firsttime, non-violent offenders to move cases quickly through the justice system.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

As referenced above, indigent defense is a significant issue in Bexar County because approximately 60 percent of all misdemeanor defendants are indigent. Judges must work with Commissioners Court to ensure that the proper resources are allocated to the courts to ensure that each defendant is provided with competent counsel to assist him/her in the defense of his/her case.

I served as administrative judge in 2013 and had numerous meetings with the other judges, County Commissioners, and the Texas Indigent Defense Commission to address these issues. I traveled to Harris County to observe the indigent defense practices there in order to provide the very best indigent services in Bexar County.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

I believe that the breadth, depth, and variety of my legal experience make me the best candidate for judge of County Court at Law No. 5. I operate and manage an efficient court. I resolved over 3,000 cases in fiscal year 2013 (second among all county court judges). I reduced my active caseload by more than 450 cases in fiscal year 2013 (first among all county court judges). I have presided over 70 trials to a verdict. I was the

administrative judge for the county courts in 2013 and helped reduce indigent defense costs by approximately $200,000. I preside over criminal and civil cases. I accept assignments from the County Court civil presiding system every Thursday and Friday. I also accept assignments from the Civil District Courts.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

I will continue to work with my court coordinator to identify the oldest cases and set them for resolution. I currently set seven cases a day for trial (Monday through Wednesday). I discovered that many cases can be resolved by having hearings on motions to suppress. Those hearings are set for Thursday afternoons and Friday mornings.

I also think that handling discovery issues early in the litigation process provides clarity for both the state and the defense. Therefore, I would encourage defense lawyers to urge more motions and do so as early as possible so that they have the information they need to make decisions regarding their cases. I may seek the office of administrative judge again in order to work with other county officials to address the budgetary needs of the courts.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

I have been inspired by Plato, Socrates, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Plato, in his great work The Republic sought to define and implement justice. Socrates recognized that wisdom is found when an individual is willing to admit that he/she lacks knowledge in

a given discipline. Socrates sought to show people that humility is required for learning, understanding, and solving problems.

Dr. King forced our nation to live up to the philosophical and moral underpinnings of our Declaration of Independence and Constitution. All people must be treated equally under the law without regard to race, religion, socioeconomic status, or any other distinguishing feature in society.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

I was the recipient of the 2002 Defense Counsel of the Year Award. My direct military supervisor, along with other senior military lawyers, determined that I was the best criminal defense lawyer for the eastern half of the United States. Serving our nation as a United States Marine was the most important personal accomplishment of my life. I think most people would be surprised to learn that I write songs, poetry, and I’m a pretty decent artist.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

and fact specific. I will also continue to allow defendants to satisfy their community service by completing high school, obtaining an equivalency diploma, taking college courses, or completing a vocational program.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

The Michael Morton Act is a step in the right direction. I think the legislature should revisit the issue of discovery in criminal cases to ensure that defendants have more substantive discovery rights. I would invite the legislature to examine the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure and use the civil discovery rules as a guide to improving the criminal discovery rules. Civil litigants are required to exchange information and materials in response to requests for disclosure and requests for production (subject to certain privileges) that would be very helpful in a criminal context. More substantive discovery would provide more clarity to both the state and defense in determining whether a plea or jury trial would be required in a given case.

I believe it is incumbent upon courts to examine the facts of each case to determine the reason(s) for repeated acts of criminal behavior. Some cases may involve addiction and/or substance abuse related issues.

Some cases simply involve continued pattern of poor decisions and a disregard for the laws of the state (including a disregard for other persons or property). I will continue to work with my court liason officer to determine reasons for repeated criminal activity as part of a motion to revoke/ adjudicate process. I will also work with the state and defense to fashion the appropriate punishment in any given case. These determinations are necessarily fact intensive

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County Court at Law No. 5

Brenda Levenstein (D)

I

IV

What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

Proper judicial temperament includes being thoughtful, kind, considerate and respectful of litigants, attorneys and court personnel.

It requires a judge to be serious yet pleasant and to be interested in the proceedings of the court.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Thurgood Marshall is the Supreme Court Justice who has been the most influential to my judicial philosophy. Justice Marshall believed in the fair treatment of all persons who come before the Court and in showing concern for the rights of the less fortunate.

III Why are you seeking this office?

I believe my experience, both in my 25-year legal career as well as in my 53-year personal life, make me very qualified to be the next judge of County Court at law No 5. I am one of the few candidates on the ballot who has Prosecution, Defense and Judicial experience.

I spent my first 10 years at the Bexar County District Attorney's office where I prosecuted misdemeanors and felonies, drafted appellate briefs and argued cases before the 4th Court of Appeals, took cases for review from police agencies and presented cases to the Grand Jury. Since then I have practiced criminal defense, representing adults and juveniles in all of the criminal and juvenile courts of Bexar County. 10 years ago I was appointed Juvenile Court Referee, a judicial position, by Judge Laura Parker of the 386th District Court. In that capacity I have presided over detention and stipulation proceedings.

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As stated in the answer to No. 3 above, I have 25 years of legal experience, almost exclusively in criminal and juvenile law. My opponent practiced mostly civil law before taking the bench. I have been a lawyer 11 years longer than he has and I am 10 years older than him. I am from Texas and have lived here in San Antonio for 31 years. I have been married to John F. Carroll, a member of your board, for 25 years (30 years together total) and we have a 22 year old daughter and a 17 year old son. My opponent is from New York and has only lived in Bexar County for 8 years. I have more legal and life experiences and that makes me the more qualified candidate for this bench.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

Significant issues facing the criminal courts here are indigent defense, mental health, jail population, bond and pretrial services issues, and discovery. I don't oppose a public defender's office so long as it is staffed like the District Attorney's office with investigators, etc.

I believe there are many people in the justice system because their mental health hampers them from conforming their behavior to the law. Mental health problems and poverty keep many people on the street and in much more frequent contact with police and therefore render them more likely to be arrested.

I see many abuses in the bond and pretrial services area including excessive conditions and fees. This keeps more people in jail, costing the county money and disrupting families. With the recent changes in the discovery

laws, discovery in criminal cases should become less of a problem, but judges should be available to resolve disputes promptly.

The non lawyers who have inspired how to approach legal questions are my mother, my father, my daughter and my son.

VI

X

What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

County Court at Law No. 5 has a daily criminal misdemeanor docket. The current judge in County Court 5 hears many civil cases. I believe that takes away time from resolving criminal matters and the criminal cases deserve priority. I will give priority to criminal cases.

My greatest legal accomplishment is helping the indigent. My most signiďŹ cant personal achievement is having had two children.

People might not know that since I turned 50 three years ago I have run 4 Half Marathons.

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VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

As I said above I have been a lawyer longer, practicing exclusively criminal and juvenile law. I have lived here in San Antonio almost 4 times longer and all of my legal career has been here. I am older, been married longer and had two children.

Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

I believe that sentences should be commensurate with the criminal behavior and prior record of the defendant. There are exceptions to that, of course. I believe that with certain offenses, like drug and alcohol related offenses, there is a great opportunity to stop criminal behavior in it's tracks altogether with treatment.

XII

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

See No 5 above.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

I think the Michael Morton Act goes a long way to address the discovery problems experienced by criminal defense attorneys. As a judge I would always make myself available to resolve any discovery dispute.

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County Court at Law No. 6

Judge Wayne A. Christian (R)(I)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

"Proper Judicial Temperament" means that a judge needs to be professional, Fair, impartial, courteous, kind, respectful and unbiased towards all criminal defendants, parties and attorneys before the court. A judge should never show

County Judge who has disposed of more criminal cases, tried more jury trials and recovered more restitution for victims than any other court in Bexar County history.

For FY 2013, my court’s case disposition rate was 42% higher than the average. Additionally, when last evaluated, the most expensive cost per disposition of a case in our county courts was $256/case while my court’s cost per disposition was (minus) -$18.37/case. In restitution alone, our court has currently collected $406,000 above the average for 2014 alone.

favoritism by words, actions or body language in or out of the courtroom. A Judge should make himself approachable outside of normal work hours for emergencies and under no circumstances take longer than (24) hours to return attorney calls. A judge should be punctual in all court matters.

The Bexar County Veterans Treatment Court has grown from (5) to (137) active defendants, graduated 143; and has over (200) currently applying for entry, making it the largest and most successful VTC in the nation.

II

What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Justice Antonin Scalia; his staunch strict interpretation of the Constitution as written and understood when it was adapted; his interpretation that the ordinary meaning of a statute should govern; his common sense in issuing conservative eloquent opinions...

Like Justice Scalia, I will enforce the Constitution and follow the ordinary meaning of the law, hopefully with a good dose of common sense...

III Why are you seeking this office?

To continue my 10-year legacy as the Bexar

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IV

I have been an attorney (35) years. I was an Army JAG and a felony-prosecutor for the 82d Airborne Division for (4) years. I was a criminal defense counsel for (21) years. I have been a Texas State Trial Court Judge for almost (10) years. I have tried over (500) jury trials as a prosecutor, defense counsel or trial court judge (without reversal). My courts have disposed of more criminal cases, tried more jury trials and recovered more restitution for victims than any other court in Bexar County history. I have been AV rated

by Martindale-Hubbell for (15) years. I hold the title of Master, Certified Texas Peace Officer. I hold the rank of Colonel, Judge Advocate General’s Corp, United States Army, Retired after (30) years of active and reserve service, having received the Legion of Merit

and the Bronze Star (for my service with the 3d Special Forces Group in Afghanistan.) No other Texas State Judge is more qualified to lead a Veterans Treatment Court.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

Indigent defense: Insuring that indigent defendants are provided competent representation in the criminal courts of Bexar County...

Insuring adequate funding to hire competent counsel for indigent defendants in Bexar County...

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

Adequate funding for the Veterans Treatment Court: I had to appear before the County Commissioners recently to insure that they were adequately aware of the plight of the VTC once all federal and state grant-funds had been depleted. I am in the process of establishing a VTC Foundation to attempt to partially or fully fund the Bexar County VTC with donations from the public sector.

VII What do you consider to be the most

important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

Experience. My opponent has no prior jury trial experience. My opponent has no prior prosecutorial experience. My opponent has no prior military experience. My opponent has no prior law enforcement experience. My opponent has no prior judicial experience.

have inspired how you approach legal questions.

Henry Ford (Problem-Solver) Albert Einstein (Analytical-Thinker) General George Patton (Make-It-Happen-FAST- Kinda- Guy) X

I have been endorsed by the San Antonio Police Officer’s Association, The San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association and the Bexar County Adult Probation Officer’s Association.

See the answer to question (4), infra.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

The establishment of a misdemeanor pretrial diversion program; the creation of such a program lies completely within the purview of the Criminal District Attorney who has already established one for youthful offendeers (MILES Program); this needs to be expanded to allow more defendants to participate resulting in a possible substantial reduction in misdemeanor trial-dockets.

What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

The meteoric rise of the Bexar County Veterans Treatment Court, from (5) defendants to the largest VTC in the nation.

Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

If a prosecutor chooses to illegally hide evidence, it is almost impossible for a defense attorney to discover his bad faith in time or even prove it after the fact. Diligent supervision and strict enforcement from District Attorneys over their ADA’s is critical to prevent future transgressions. Trial Court Judges, on defense motion, may review in camera the prosecution’s work-product and possibly insure over-zealous new ADA’s don’t negligently (or on purpose) mis-identify evidence as non-exculpatory. The Court and the Defense have few controls over a “Bad” ADA unless caught and brought to the attention of the Judge and DA.

Attaining the rank of Colonel, United States Army.

People already know everything about me & nothing would surprise them!

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Recividism is a fact of life in the criminal justice system. A historical trend of repeated offenses might indicate that the defendant is a professional criminal and not worthy of a second-chance.

XII

IX Please name three non-lawyers who

Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr.

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County Court at Law No. 6

Rochelle Acevedo (D)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

I believe that a judge should always be fair and impartial to everyone that comes before that bench. A judge should always follow the law and not let any outside biases of any sort get in the way of any rulings, sentencing’s or any types of decisions. A judge should at all times be respectful of everyone who comes before that court, whether it be attorneys, defendants, witnesses or victims. I believe that a judge should have the patience and take the time to listen to each individual case.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Perhaps predictably, I would have to say Justice Sonia Maria Sotomayor. Despite her being a role model as the first Hispanic federal judge in New York State, the first justice of Hispanic heritage, and its third female justice and in addition to her being a lifelong activist, her judicial philosophy is much aligned with my convictions and principles.

I chose a county court because I firmly believe many of the defendants that come before these misdemeanor courts are largely products of their economic environment, but there is very little mercy for continued recidivism. Throughout her career there has not been any clear cut allegiance to any party or affiliation. She has remained committed to the law and its application, despite political opinion or facts that come before her. She has been known as a meticulous judge, faithfully following the law.

III Why are you seeking this office?

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I am seeking a judicial bench because I feel with my experience, my background, and my character, I would be a good judge who is hardworking, fair and committed. I have the experience necessary to listen to the evidence, follow the law, be fair and impartial and dispense justice equitably. I am a wife, a mother of three girls, a business owner and solo practitioner; as such, I have a unique perspective on efficiency, hard work, perseverance and commitment.

I am seeking this office because I feel this court needs change. This bench deserves a judge who will listen to the evidence and who knows and will follow the law. Our Veterans deserve a Judge who is open-minded, compassionate and dedicated. My commitment is to have our Veterans Treatment Court thrive with the help and commitment of county involvement.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I have been a practicing attorney for over 11 years, obtaining my license in May of 2003.

Currently I have my own full time practice.

My practice consists of primarily criminal law ranging from juvenile and adult class c tickets, misdameanors, felonies, MTR's, federal cases and appeals. I also handle family law matters including divorces, SAPCR's, modifications , child support, terminations and adoptions.

My background, my experience, my commitment to this bench and my devotion to my community make me the best candidate for this position. I am a San Antonio native and I care about my community, our youth, and our safety. I have been practicing for over 11 years and have handled hundreds of cases. I bring experience, knowledge of the law, respect and fairness to this bench. I am hardworking and committed to producing an efficient court as well as bringing Veteran’s Court to its full potential.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County?

What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

There are several issues that face our courts currently: jail population, large dockets, speedy trials, our court appointment system. It’s easier said than done to remedy any one of these issues, but I know taking the bench walking in from the defense side, I have a unique perspective on them. Although we are limited on any action the ADA takes on any particular case, it is the Judges discretion to set trial dates, prioritize and maintain a tight schedule. I will be respectful and mindful of the attorneys that come before me while maintaining efficiency for all parties involved.

One of the most important factors is availability. I will make myself available to attorneys at all times. My perspective is that I am applying to the citizen of Bexar County for this position. This is a full time + position and I plan to use that time towards administration.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

Currently, there is a lack of respect for all parties that enter this court from the clerks, probation, our ADA’s and defense council to defendants who enter this court. When there is a breakdown in that rapport, the court cannot function properly.

There are issues with not following the law, with having motives that prioritize numbers in pleas and collections rather than individualizing each case, issues with not working full work days or weeks. As a judge who

takes on a specialty court, you are accepting that position in addition to your normal caseload.

The most significant and unrepentant issue in this court is the collapse of our Veterans Treatment Court. It is disheartening that this court is in the position it is. Our specialty courts run on state grants designed for creation and implementation. If funding runs out, the administration should be questioned and best practices examined and scrutinized.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

The most important distinction is my demeanor and the judicial temperament I would assume. I am hardworking and committed. I know the law and would follow it.

Throughout my career I have maintained a reputation of being respectful to all I work with. I have worked in specialty courts and know how to maintain best practices. My character and my work ethic distinguishes me and the court I would preside. I would respect my court staff, our Probation Department, ADA’s, defense attorneys and tax payer money.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Unfortunately, the greatest barrier that all of the issues that our courts face derive from budgetary issues. Be it jail population, indigent defense, overloaded dockets, they all stem from our counties finances.

The greatest asset would be able to have an open dialogue between our next DA, or organizations and our courts. We must reconcile the issues that face all of us and be open minded to suggestions.

Personally, my goals would be to modify our court appointment system to attempt to remove ulterior motives. Our community, families and futures are at stake and have been priced out.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

God; Reinaldo Acevedo, my father, business owner and pro bono intake extraordinaire; Sofia Lopez, my 4 year old daughter who has not been jaded by the world or its technicalities.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

Luckily, somehow, someway I have lots of pride in many accomplishments. I was accepted and attended the University Of Texas School Of Law with great pride. I finished undergrad in 3 years, law school in 2 ½ and was a practicing attorney by the age of 24.

To date, my greatest personal achievement was being the first female in my family to attend law school and later survive that same scrutiny, purchasing my own office, opening my own business with several staff and being a wife and mother.

Growing up, my parents owned a grocery store where I grew up and worked the cash register from age 8.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Recidivism can easily be defined as repeated criminal behavior after having consequences for that behavior. I have strong convictions regarding this behavior which derived my desire to run for a county court at law bench. If we want to prevent recidivism, we have to start with the youth that come before us and recognize that they are a part of our community, they are our sons and daughters, our neighbors, our students and for better or worse, our future. We must put in the efforts at the county court level if we want to ensure lower recidivism in our felony courts. We have to recognize and individualize each defendant that comes before us by their character and not their case number. We must train ourselves to recognize an isolated incident from a percieved lost cause.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

The bill puts much responsibility on all parties involved while maintaining good faith that the state and defense with abide. While it is light years ahead of scrolling down police reports verbatim or carrying around a portable scanner, there are clearly portions that cause concern that we may or may not see in upcoming legislative sessions.

Candidates and Judges alike should be well versed, not only on the bill, but the legislative intent behind its creation. The bills does a wonderful job of outlining what is discoverable for all parties so that everyone is put on notice of what is expected, including law enforcement. For those issues in question, Judges must be well educated in issuing orders that are reflective of the same. While giving discretion to our ADA’s, a Judge must assume this discretion as a heavy responsibility to the disbursement of justice.

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County Court at Law No. 7

Judge Genie Wright (R)(I)

I

V

What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

A judge should be consistent in demeanor.

Court participants should know what to expect every time they come into the court.

NO JUDGEZILLAS! II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Thurgood Marshall. He was fearless in protecting our constitutionally granted rights.

III

Justice delayed is justice denied. Warrants need to be served in a more timely manner. Resources for advocates, investigators, support staff and prosecutors need to be increased.

Defense attorneys appointed to cases deserve better compensation for their work.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking re-election. I love my job.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

Aside from practicing criminal and family law for 18 years before taking the bench in County Court 7, a unique criminal court, I am the sitting judge of this court. This court has disposed of more than 11,000 cases during my tenure. Anyone who practiced in this court before my taking the bench and practices there now knows the changes that have been made. County Court 7 is an efficient court that is sensitive to the fact that we deal with real people in real time.

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This court deals with relationships. Cases are rarely as straight forward as a theft case for example. The cases take longer to work up and bring to trial because they are complicated at all levels. Diligent oversight of the docket is essential to the smooth operation of the court. I will continue to administer this court docket in an efficient manner and show fairness and impartiality to all parties.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

I am an experienced judge. My court is efficiently run; considerate of all who appear before it. I feel that I have earned re-election to this position by my actions not by my promises.

VIII

XI

What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Easy question: MONEY . Innovative programs, specialty courts, continued legal education, programs within the jail, smaller case loads for probation ofďŹ cers: All this is possible but only if we make a commitment to allocate resources to the justice system. A judge is not an advocate for either side. However, once a defendant is adjudicated I will continue to seek ways to improve families.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

The approach to legal questions is one of the distinguishing thought processes taught to us carefully, meticulously and often painfully in law school. Non-lawyers have not had this training.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement? What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

Recidivism represents failure to the criminal justice system. As a court dealing with families and relationships I want to see defendants becoming better citizens. Monitoring of our probationers and pre-trial defendants is very important. If one way of dealing with someone does not work then be willing to try something else. I prefer to keep people in programs, get them the drug treatment or mental health treatment they need, build strong families and rehabilitate rather than incarcerate.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

As a judge I follow the law. I welcome the Morton Act but the breadth of the statute is a matter of policy. I am bound by the rules of evidence, the rules of criminal procedure and the penal code. I have sworn to follow them and I will.

A. Becoming a lawyer and loving the profession. I am proud to be a lawyer B. Having an education and seeing that my children have one as well C. I have no idea!

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County Court at Law No. 7

Michael De Leon (D)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

A judge’s role should be to see the fair administration of justice. A judge should treat all victims, defendants, witnesses, court staff, and attorneys fairly and with proper respect. A judge should acknowledge that people’s issues and time are important to the court by being on-time and not making participants in the court process wait unnecessarily. I have worked with many judges over the years and I understand that as a judge, I would treat all equally and with respect and avoid all appearances of impropriety.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

My judicial philosophy includes following the law and making reasonable deductions from the law. No Supreme Court Justice has influenced me one way or the other.

III Why are you seeking this office?

The current judge who was swept into office in 2010 does not have the domestic violence experience nor knowledge of the law to run a specialized domestic violence court. This

46

specialized court is being run without the ultimate goal of curbing and ending the cycle of violence. I, on the other hand, have spent my entire career fighting against domestic violence. I have a firm knowledge of the law, understand how to conduct a jury trial as I have done so 130 times, and I understand the cycle of violence which any specialized court should understand. I want to make a real difference in this community to be part of the solution to curb and end domestic violence. Ask anyone who knows me and they will tell you that I am a fair and reasonable prosecutor and I will continue being fair and reasonable on the bench.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I am a hard-working, ethical, and experienced person who has a reputation around the courthouse of being fair and reasonable.

I have been a prosecutor for a total of 14 years. I have worked in the field of domestic violence for most of my career which includes teaching police officers on domestic violence, trying over 130 jury trials, attending several domestic violence national conferences, and handling well over 1000 felony domestic violence cases. Additionally, I have handled and tried for 10 years 3g offenses such as Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, Injury to a Child-Serious Bodily Injury, Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Murder, and Capital Murder. As judge, I will

1) know the law, 2) follow the law, and 3) be fair to all parties.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

I believe that the probation department has several issues that need to be resolved to make it more efficient and accountable.

Additionally, I believe the issue of court appointed salaries may cause our system to not be as efficient as possible and can lead to defendants being treated unfairly. Court appointed compensation needs to be raised.

Lastly, the entire court system needs to utilize technology (e-mail/texts/etc) to make communication to all the parties more efficient.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

As judge, I would work more closely with the probation department to make sure those on probation who are not complying are dealt with in a much more efficient manner.

I would also work with pre-trial services to make sure defendants are not languishing in jail unnecessarily. The entire court system

needs to utilize technology (e-mail/texts/ etc) to make communication of all the parties much more efficient.

Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

VII See answer #5.

What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

My opponent does not seem to understand basic principles of the law and cannot conduct a simple misdemeanor jury trial. There have been countless mistrials because of mistakes the Court has allowed to occur which inevitably lead to a mistrial which is a waste of time and taxpayers money. Before 2010, my opponent was primarily a family law attorney and would not list the number of jury trials she conducted to the San Antonio Express News Editorial Board. I have been a trial attorney for 14 years, accumulating over 130 jury trials, with approximately 100 of those being felonies. I have tried numerous cases of Aggravated Sexual Assaults of both children and adults, murders, and capital murders. My opponent does not have extensive trial experience and her four years on the bench has not produced efficient jury trials.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Benjamin Franklin, and Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

My greatest legal accomplishment is bringing justice to children who have been sexually abused and giving them the ability to persevere and succeed to be the young adults they were destined to always be.

to generation. To end it, we need to provide counseling to those who are first time offenders so that they can learn that violence is an unacceptable way of resolving conflict in their relationships. If we can stop domestic violence in this generation, the children of the next generation will learn that violence is not an option when they have conflict. If this trend continues, domestic violence will be much less acceptable in our society.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

Michael Morton Act—The new statute provides adequate protections to protect the rights of the Defendant. As Judge, I will hold the State to their burden to provide all documentation to the defense.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

In a domestic violence court such as County Court #7, the only way our community will help end domestic violence is to stop the cycle of violence that goes from generation

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County Court at Law No. 8

Judge Liza A. Rodriguez (D)(I)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Proper judicial temperament is perhaps one of the most important character traits a judge must possess. As a judge, one must base each decision in a fair and impartial manner after careful consideration of all the evidence presented. It is important to remember that each is as unique as the individual who is being charged with the offense. It is imperative that a judge maintains a calm, professional, and respectful manner with all who come before the Court.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Each Supreme Court Justice has unique and admirable qualities; however, I would not say that any in particular has influenced my judicial philosophy. I admire Sonia Sotomayor for many reasons, but most especially because she, of all the Justices, allows herself to be seen as a person. Although she sits on the highest Court of the land, she understands that her decisions have tremendous impact on people. She follows the law, is thoughtful, deliberate, and mindful of the magnitude of her decisions.

started four years ago implementing Bexar County’s first DWI Court. Additionally, I hope to continue exploring additional alternatives to traditional sentencing models in order to reduce recidivism and increase public safety.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I began my career in criminal law as a Bexar County Assistant District Attorney (ADA) in 1998 under Steve Hilbig and continued my service under Susan Reed until 2008. As an Assistant District Attorney, I prosecuted numerous cases from misdemeanor DWI’s to felony murders. I was assigned to the trial division for nine of the ten years, spending the last year in the Family Justice Division, where I handled sexual and physical crimes against children.

As an ADA I tried 98 cases (including both misdemeanor and felony) to jury verdict. In the last three years as a sitting judge, I have presided over 100 cases to jury verdict, for a total of over 200 as either an attorney or a judge.

I believe the combination of experience I have as a Prosecutor, Defense Attorney, Court Administrator and now sitting Judge, allows me to bring a unique and now proven perspective.

III

help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

Some of the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County would be the tremendous backlog of cases, (in County Court those involving DWIs), and the high rate of recidivism seen in misdemeanor offenders. Ultimately, the Judge of the court takes the lead in ensuring that work is done in an efficient and effective manner. Maintaining proper docket-control and holding attorneys accountable are both imperative in order to manage large dockets. With respect to reducing recidivism, I subscribe to the philosophy of evidence-based sentencing, which requires proper screening and assessment of individuals placed on community supervision in order to accomplish better outcomes. Again, traditional sentencing models involving incarceration are not proven to change behavior and are both costly and ineffective.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

The high volume of cases has been addressed by ensuring that attorneys handle their cases in an expeditious manner in order to ensure the administration of justice to the citizens of Bexar County, as well as those seeking final resolution of their matters in court.

V Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking re-election as Judge of County Court #8 in order to continue serving the citizens of Bexar County and the work I

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What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could

Recidivism has been addressed by utilizing evidence based sentencing such as with DWI Court. County Court 8 also functions as the first DWI Court in Bexar County. In addition to handling a regular docket, which

includes the full range of misdemeanor offenses, I am the only judge to preside over the DWI Court, which supervises convicted DWI subsequent offenders who are clinically diagnosed as alcohol dependent and assessed as high risk/high needs individuals. The DWI Court follows the Drug Court model used nation-wide, with the goal of reducing recidivism by combining the strictest form of supervision, alcohol monitoring, and treatment.

line of communication with the executive branch of government. Some changes involve a financial commitment by the county to improve processes in the courts and others involve collaboration with community stake -holders outside the county in order to improve overall outcomes. Many times what this requires is for a judge to step outside the proverbial “box” and be willing to communicate and collaborate with others about ways in which to improve our criminal court system.

VII X What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

There are numerous distinctions between me and my opponent, but the most important is the amount of trial experience. Because County Court 8 is a high volume trial court, actual trial experience is imperative in order to effectively manage the docket. As mentioned previously, I have extensive trial experience both as a prosecutor and as a judge.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

The changes that need to be made within the County Criminal Courts involve an overall paradigm shift. Beginning with an open

What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

My greatest legal accomplishment would be the creation of Bexar County’s first standalone DWI Court, which is modeled after evidence-based Drug Courts. Bexar County is one of the last large urban counties in the State to have established such a court. My greatest personal achievement is being a mother to my two children, Alina and Aiden.

People might find it surprising that I ran my first half marathon last year.

better outcomes and reduce the likelihood of recidivism. The DWI Court is a perfect example of this model. The DWI Court follows the Drug Court model used nationwide, with the goal of reducing recidivism by combining the strictest form of supervision, alcohol monitoring, and individualized treatment.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

A judge is required to ensure that all parties involved in court matters follow the rule of law. The Michael Morton Act was passed in hopes that the tragic events involving Mr. Morton do not repeat themselves. The criminal justice system is not infallible, but hopefully, legislation such as this will decrease the chances that such a travesty will occur again.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

As mentioned previously, I subscribe to the philosophy of evidence-based sentencing, which unlike traditional sentencing models involving incarceration, is proven to reduce recidivism. This model requires consideration of a variety of factors, including proper risk/needs assessments, in order to ensure

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County Court at Law No. 9

Judge Walden Shelton (R)(I)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

to also hear civil matters from the District Courts. I have actually tried as ďŹ rst chair criminal case in Bexar County and in this Court.

V

To treat the parties fairly and evenly. I believe that I do that every day.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Antonin Scalia, he takes his position and vigorously defends it, whether you agree with it or not.

The cost of indigent defense. We have adjusted the fee schedule to retry to control cost. We will continue to look at ways to reduce those costs with the input of the defense bar.

III

VI

Why are you seeking this office?

What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

I am seeking re-election to continue reducing the back log of criminal cases and to continue to reduce operating costs.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I have been practicing law for 16 years and serving as Judge for 4 years in Bexar County. I am Martindale-Hubble rated and have been named by Texas Monthly a Super Lawyer twice. This is a General Jurisdiction Court. I am the only candidate with both civil and criminal law experience. I have been appointed the Regional Administrative Judge

50

What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

The most pressing issue is the backlog of cases. I am continuing to work to reduce that number. I have increased the number of cases set for trial each day to try to reduce the backlog.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

I have at least 10 more total years of experience and at least 14 more in Bexar County.

My opponent moved here from Webb Coun-

ty to run for this bench. His total experience in Bexar County is the date of his arrival to present. I have civil experience and this Court also hears civil cases. I am the better candidate has I have proven results: I saved over $100k of Court operating expense in the first year and have continued those saving each year thereafter; Reduce the backlog of criminal cases by over 550; and, I have been a leader in DWI cases - Drafted the Standing Blood Discovery Order used by all County Court and have been tasked with drafting the Standing Breath Order to be used by all County Courts.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

I will continue to work to make the Court more efficient, by working to reduce the back-log of cases.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

I cannot think of any.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not

know about you, which you think would surprise them?

Being named twice as a Super Lawyer. Becoming an Eagle Scout. That I have a salt water reef tank which takes up the rest of my time keeping it clean.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Some people are going to re-offend. To that end, I try to identify those with DWI offenses by order a TAIP evaluation of each defendant. I believe that I have been somewhat successful. According to probation records, of those we identity with a problem we have a success rate 10 point over the County average.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

I have been a leader in making sure that evidence is turned over to the defense. Shortly after taking the bench, I instituted a Standing Discovery Order that required the state to turn over all evidence without the necessary of the defense filing discovery motions, just a letter to the state. Any additional measure would have to be on a case by case basis.

51

County Court at Law No. 9

Carlos Quezada (D)

I

III

V

What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Why are you seeking this office?

What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

Judicial temperament should always be firm yet respectful to all parties involved in the justice system, with no preferential treatment to any party. The Lawyers, clients, defendants, families, witnesses and victims should be respected and all deserve to be heard without prejudice. Further, the parties need time to hold meaningful discussion in hopes of reaching a plea agreement. A Judge must keep in mind at the same time the court needs to run an efficient courtroom so that its dockets do not get clogged. Balance is the key to this and a well-rounded Judge should have no problem striking this balance and keeping the workload moving forward while, at the same time, enabling the truest sense of justice to be experienced in the courtroom.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

For a number of reasons I must answer Thurgood Marshall, mostly for his work as Legal Counsel to the NAACP in helping to desegregate public facilities and helping to overcome racist policies. Prior to being elevated to the Supreme Court, his work in Brown v. Board of Education helped desegregate public schools around the United States. His Supreme Court opinions helped shape the criminal procedure that we know today. His vision for our country; his deep, abiding commitment to “justice for all”; and his courage in standing up to diabolical forces in our country fueled his keen legal intellect to make such the most significant impact on American life by any American Justice, before and after his ascension to the Bench.

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I am a life long resident of Bexar County.

The betterment of this community and its safety are important to me. I became a lawyer to participate in the justice system, not to be a spectator, but a force toward betterment. I have been a defense attorney, and I was a prosecutor in the court and now I see that the best was to be that driving force of betterment is to place myself in the judge’s seat. I want to help insure that defendants are not forgotten by the justice system. It is my goal to ensure defendants are rehabilitated in the little time they are under my court’s jurisdiction and not have our penal system graduate them to the felony level.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

After graduating from St. Mary’s with my bachelors of arts, I served as an Assistant Jury Room Bailiff at the Bexar Co. Courthouse, observing the legal system from that perspective. Following Law School, I immediately opened a private practice and began taking criminal appointments in Bexar County. In those days you could arrive early to the courthouse and get an appointment almost every day if you were lucky.

After only three months, the newly elected District Attorney in Webb County recruited me to serve as an Assistant District Attorney. I prosecuted everything from possession of marijuana to murders. Today I have a private practice that focuses mainly on criminal matters but I am also familiar with civil matters, which makes up about one fourth of my practice.

Some of the biggest issues that I see facing all courts around the State are the proper assessment of offenders. Often the underlying reasons for criminal actions are mental illness, addiction, unemployment, and poverty. Having a system that assesses and addresses these issues that offenders are facing would, in my opinion, go far in the reduction of crime in Bexar County. The County has many programs aimed to help in this manner but those programs can’t identify every offender with an underlying issue. More funding for such programs and more training for everyone involved in the criminal justice system (including defense attorneys) would, in my opinion, be beneficial. A judge cannot order a treatment program or do a referral to the Texas work force unless such issues are brought to his attention.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

The issues facing County Court at Law No. 9 are the same issues facing all criminal courts in Bexar County. Judges need more options when sentencing a defendant. I will work hard with the District Attorney’s office, the Probation office and the community to develop more diverse ways to rehabilitate offenders. The County courts have a unique position in that they have the ability to rehabilitate offenders before they reach the felony level.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

County Court at Law #9 was designed to be a criminal court, and I have superior criminal law experience. The current office holder has very little criminal law experience other prior to his time on the bench.

A criminal court judge should understand what it is like to handle the cases that are before him. He should know first hand what it is like to sit in the seat of the attorneys before him. As a former prosecutor and as a defense attorney I have that firsthand knowledge, and would be honored to put it to work for Bexar County.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Judges can bring great change in this community if they had the tools (or knowledge of the tools) around them. There are programs out there to help at risk youth get GED’s or vocational training. There are programs that help mothers feed their children. There are programs that help men understand to respect women. The county is aware of many of them but not all of them. When elected judge I will work to educate not only myself but all members of the Bexar justice system on more programs that can be used to rehabilitate and assist offenders in Bexar County. No doubt there will be some pushback on some of these strategies, but I would work with those in-

volved in restorative justice issues to break the high degree of recidivism in our community.

symbolic to me of the position that I had finally achieved the opportunity to give back to those who had given me so much.

IX

One thing that might surprise people, I was an alter boy at St. James church.

Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

My Grandfather Gene Quezada, My Mother Lupe Quezada, My Father Carlos Quezada.

These parents and grandparent have nurtured me, inspired me, disciplined me, and steered me in the path of righteousness.

From them I developed a strong sense of justice and fairness and to ensure that the little guy with the small voice was heard as much as the big guy with the big voice.

Their encouragement and support helped me become an attorney, and they are my strongest advocates and supporters in this election. I am forever in their debt, and I pledge to conduct myself in office in a way that will forever honor their many sacrifices to help me achieve this goal.

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

Becoming a lawyer, I was the first in my family to even graduate from college. I admired lawyers since I was a child; they are the champions of justice. It was a struggle coming from the City’s Southside but I did it and will always remember the struggles of my family to allow me this opportunity.

My greatest personal accomplishment was an outing I had with my grandfather on Father’s Day shortly after I graduated from law school. At the end of the day I took my Grandfather to Penner’s, a men’s clothing store, and told him to pick out any pair of shoes he wanted, a small gesture but very

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

At sentencing a judge must look to criminal history to assess the proper punishment.

Whether that would mean helping the offender address an issue or assessing a harsher sentence, it is all on a case-by-case basis.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

As a former prosecutor open discovery was always part of the rules, nothing was held back. Brady material was that we called it.

The Morton act simply reminds everyone of what the rules are and what they have always been. Both my legal training at Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and my specific training when I became an Assistant District Attorney emphasized the necessity of making available to an accused’s defense attorney the evidence obtained against the accused. As a Judge, I will ensure that all parties abide by the rules, and that all rights of the accused are fully and completely protected in my courtroom. There will be zero tolerance for abuse of the individual rights of the accused.

53

County Court at Law No. 11

Judge Carlo Key (D)(I)

I

V

What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

Impartiality, fairness and equal respect to all court room participants.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

While learning the law, there were many Supreme Court Justices who amazed me with their thoughtfulness, wisdom and passion for the Constitution. That was over a decade ago.

III Why are you seeking this office?

It is my wish to continue to serve the people of Bexar County and ensure that we have equality and fairness in our local judiciary.

Crowded court dockets which result in the longest “arraignment –to- trial” waiting periods in the state. The solution will require active cooperation by both the prosecution and defense counsel as well an independent ability of prosecutors to assess and resolve those cases which they have been assigned to.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

Crowded dockets; I call approximately 40 cases for trial a week and take announcements on all cases in an attempt to confer and resolve as many as cases as possible.

IV VII What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I have over a decade of criminal legal experience in our community as a prosecutor, defense attorney and judge. My diversity and duration of experience makes me vastly more qualified over my opponent who, at the time of election, will not qualify to sit as a County Court at Law judge.

54

What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

Experience.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are

the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Making alcohol monitoring devices which are required as a part of pre-trial supervision affordable to the accused. The largest impediment is that Bexar County uses independent contractors to provide many of these monitors and the courts cannot force a private contractor to reduce their rates.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

None come to mind X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

It should always be a goal of the justice system to help prevent recidivism through substance abuse and mental health counseling if appropriate. However, a county court judge cannot change the heart of the offender nor can they change the world. If an offender has no interest in rehabilitation, then a judge should deeply consider this when making a sentencing decision.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

The Michael Morton Act is obviously a step in the right direction, however, the dangers of wrongful convictions are still very much present and more steps to ensure prosecutorial transparency should be sought. It is one of the judge’s foremost duties to ensure that evidence used against the accused in court is fair, relevant, and reliable.

I was the youngest judge elected to the bench in 2010. My most signiďŹ cant personal achievement is overcoming poverty and a difďŹ cult childhood to graduate from law school and serve my community as their county court judge. Most people would be surprised to know that I am a published poet and photographer.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

55

County Court at Law No. 11

Tommy Stolhandske (R)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Exhibiting proper judicial temperament involves being approachable and understanding while confidant and firm. A judge must encourage cooperation between opposing attorneys. In my opinion, a judge that shows proper judicial temperament will be able to maintain an orderly and respectful courtroom.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Justice Scalia’s opinions are often the most influential on me. While in Law School I was able to take a class taught by Justice Scalia.

Although I do not always agree with him, I can always count on his opinions to be well reasoned and based on the constitution.

III Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking this office because I believe that I am well suited to be a fair and impartial judge. Having handled over 1000 misdemeanor cases, I have the practical understanding of the way this court should operate. I have a passion to reduce recidivism by trying to encourage first time offenders

56

to change their behavior and stay out of the criminal court system while insisting on tough, fair justice.

both sides in order to move the docket more efficiently.

VI

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

As a criminal defense attorney, I have handled well over 1000 cases, including nearly every case that this court has jurisdiction to hear. I have proven myself to be a strong advocate for those accused of crimes as a defense attorney, while maintaining an understanding of the job that has to be done by the state. I believe that I am the best candidate for this job because I have worked to establish and will work to maintain a good working relationship with prosecutors, defense attorneys, and courtroom staff.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

The most significant issue facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County is the backlogged docket. In County Court 11, I plan to promote an environment that encourages a timely resolution to cases, which are favorable to

What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

Specific to County Court 11, I would remove the trial call docket. As a defense attorney there have been many occasions where I would show up to the call docket only to have the state say they are ready for trial and then change their announcement 2 weeks later. In my opinion this is an unnecessary setting for the attorney and the client to be required to attend. It wastes time and tax payer dollars.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

The biggest distinction between myself and my opponent is our difference in basic political ideology. My opponent has a prosecutorial background, while my experience Includes an internship with the DA's Office and a Criminal Defense practice.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal

Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

In my opinion, the Criminal Courts in Bexar County are behind other courts in South Texas in terms of their use of technology. I believe the implementation of optional e-filing and a modern case management system would greatly benefit the Criminal Courts.

The biggest impediment is, most likely, the cost of implementing these systems. I plan to advocate for a more sophisticated use of technology in an effort to increase productivity and long term cost effectiveness.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

My mom has always insisted that I behave with integrity and strive to to do the right thing. My "handicapable" cousin Sam is an inspiration to me and helped me understand that no matter what challenges we face we should always do our best. Finally, my college basketball coach talked me out of going into coaching because it is not always a “fair” profession. Integrity, justice and fairness are at the core of my being.

X What is your greatest legal

accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

My greatest legal accomplishment is fighting hard for everyone of my clients whether hired or appointed. On several occasions, I have had a case dismissed or significantly reduced when the previous attorney withdrew because the client wouldn't take the current offer. My greatest personal achievement is, while in college being named a finalist for the national scholar athlete of the year in 2004 and 2005. One thing people do not know about me that would surprise them is that I, along with my wife, own a running tour of downtown San Antonio that is ranked as the number one activity for tourists according to tripadvisor.com. River City Run is a successful small business that "shows off" our amazing city to runners from all over the world.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

to reach a result that will help the Defendant have a successful future and not become part of this problem.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

The Michael Morton act was a significant advancement in criminal discovery, however I think it is still important for the judge in every case to inquire as to whether or not there is any discovery that has not been turned over to the defense and if so, why.

One of the recurring issues I am seeing is the existence of video in most cases but it not being available in the file. I believe that in every case where there is or was video, it should be turned over to the defense and not at the expense of the defense (especially in appointed cases).

Recidivism is one of the biggest problems plaguing our Criminal Courts in Bexar County. It is important, when the judge assesses punishment. that he or she try to identify whether or not the defendant is likely to continue the same type of behavior that brought them in front of the court in the first place. I think it is important for prosecutors, defense attorneys, and the judge in the case of first time offenders to do their best

57

County Court at Law No. 13

Crystal Chandler (R)

I

III

What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Why are you seeking this office?

Judicial temperament includes decisiveness, freedom from bias, commitment to equal justice under the law, compassion, open-mindedness, courtesy, and patience.

It is conducting oneself in a manner that garners the highest level of public confidence in the judge’s independence, fairness, impartiality, integrity and competence. I believe my nearly 17 years of experience as a criminal trial lawyer, appellate attorney and briefing attorney, have prepared me well to be judge of County Court at Law No. 13. I have a reputation for professionalism and even-handedness that engenders support from a cross-section of lawyers and judges.

When the dysfunction in a family, household or dating relationship spills over to violence people in Bexar County find themselves in either County Court #7 or County Court #13. A misdemeanor criminal family violence court may be the last place that people think can bring hope or change to a family but in many situations it may be the only place that can. Citizens of Bexar County deserve a judge that has extensive criminal law experience, unquestioned integrity, a desire to see justice achieved in every case, and the compassion that comes from long exposure to defendants and victims in a personal and professional capacity. I have those qualities and I want to use them to make that difference.

IV

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

Because I was a briefing attorney at the Court of Criminal Appeals and a legal intern at the Fourth Court of Appeals, it was really the justices of those courts that most influenced the development of my judicial philosophy. Judge Sue Holland and Justice Phil Hardberger taught me to approach each case without any preconceived outcome.

As for my personal judicial philosophy, I believe that the job of any judge, whether serving in an appellate or trial court capacity, is to follow the law, not make it. It is the Legislature’s prerogative to write the law. I believe a trial judge is to apply the law to the facts of the case regardless of whether the ruling favors the prosecution or the defense. When interpreting a constitutional provision, statute or code, a judge should interpret the law as written and not create or shape a meaning based on personal opinions.

58

What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

I have prosecuted serious criminal cases before the trial courts, the intermediate appellate courts, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and the United States Supreme Court.

Currently, I am a full-time, senior appellate prosecutor with the Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office. I am responsible for appeals and applications for writs of habeas corpus in misdemeanor, felony and capital murder cases.

I was previously a first chair trial prosecutor in the 399th District Court, where in addition to prosecuting serious and high profile felonies, I supervised other prosecutors, investigators, victim's advocates and legal interns.

For five years, I was a felony family violence prosecutor specializing in the prosecution of sex crimes against children and family violence crimes including murders, aggravated assaults, kidnappings and violations of protective orders due to physical abuse.

Prior to being a prosecutor, I was a Briefing Attorney at the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

The following are some of the most significant issues I see facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County: (1) ensuring that persons accused of a crime are truly indigent before receiving court appointed counsel; (2) lack of adequate resources for defendant services particularly (2a) the need for long term mental health treatment and monitoring and (2b) the lack of a holistic approach to family reintegration or family services – particularly in the family violence context; (3) lack of adequate resources for victim services; and (4) lack of a connection with the civil courts on CPS cases so that the parties can more wholly address the issues that face not only the defendant but the family. See Question 8 for potential solutions.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

The most pressing issues for County Court #13 include: (1) providing swift and just trials for defendants and victims; (2) ensuring the safety of victims and children; (3) resolving cases fairly and efficiently; and (4) where appropriate addressing the root causes of violent behavior.

To that end, if afforded the privilege of serving as judge, I would strive to: (1) streamline the docket with limiting the number of resets per side unless justice requires otherwise; (2) explore intensive, court-led intervention programs for defendants and families

that could benefit from the intervention at the misdemeanor level; (4) request that risk analysis through lethality assessments be performed on family violence cases; (5) request that a CPS advocate be attached to the court to serve as a liaison where families have a contemporaneous civil case involving CPS; and (6) request regular fugitive roundups to facilitate resolution of old cases sitting dormant.

domestic violence; and (4) creation of special supervision status for domestic violence defendants remaining in the home.

VII

IX

What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

Without question, it is my extensive criminal law experience. County Court #13 is a criminal court.

I have devoted my nearly 17 year professional career to the practice of criminal law and public service. I have extensive criminal law experience with 50 jury trials, 13 bench trials, 200+ appeals, 100+ contested matters, including post-conviction habeas applications in capital murder cases. I have tried criminal cases from misdemeanor assaults to murders.

I have handled every aspect of a criminal case, from review at the magistrate’s office, intake, grand jury, trial, motion for new trial, appeal and post-conviction proceedings. I prepare and teach criminal law courses for other lawyers and law enforcement agents for continuing education credit. I also teach criminal law at the college level.

Things I would do as judge in the next four years to address these issues: (1) seek out grant funds; (2) advocate for reallocation of funds; and (3) use County Court #13 to help supervise and hold accountable families where defendants will remain in the home.

Abandoned by my drug-addicted mother and raised by my alcoholic grandmother, I grew up in humble surroundings. When I was little, Jim Sheffield, a recovering alcoholic came to live with us. He taught me many things like how to drive (in a purple Cadillac with fins), shoot and bait a hook. This kind soul, whose addiction cost him his family, taught me compassion, open-mindedness and that the just answer requires patiently examining the whole picture including what lies deep below the surface.

When I was 16, Debbie and Jody Jackson gave me a real home and family when I had none. They taught me unconditional love and a genuine willingness to help others.

My college professor Dr. Larry Hufford encouraged me to go to law school, showed me genuine respect for the law and inspired my desire to seek justice through his own work brokering peace in war-torn nations.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Recidivism refers to a person’s relapse into criminal behavior after the person receives sanctions or undergoes intervention for a current or previous crime. In sentencing, I would take into account a defendant’s criminal history paying particular attention to whether any of the prior adjudications or convictions were violent crimes involving a victim. I would also take into account the facts and circumstances of the crime, and finally I would look to help address the fundamental issues or circumstances in the defendant’s life that may be contributing to the recidivism such as drug and alcohol abuse, lack of employment, raised in an abusive home, etc. as long as those issues lie within the court’s jurisdiction.

XII

What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

In my legal career, I am proudest of my diverse legal skills that have resulted in me currently serving as the only prosecutor in the District Attorney’s Office to be promoted through the ranks to the position of felony first chair criminal trial prosecutor and felony first chair appellate prosecutor.

Consequently, I have handled family violence cases at all stages of litigation including accusation, grand jury, trial, appeal and all post-conviction proceedings.

The prosecutor’s actions in withholding clearly exculpatory evidence in Mr. Morton’s case violated the law at the time of his actions. It was not acceptable then and it is not acceptable now. The new statute’s documentation requirement will expedite and clarify whether exculpatory information has been turned over to the defense team.

When presented with discovery issues, a judge should conduct a fair and impartial hearing to ensure justice is done.

X

Potential solutions to the significant issues facing the criminal courts that I set out in Question 5 include: (1) running a credit report to aid in determining whether an accused is truly indigent thus requiring court appointed counsel; (2) expansion of SAPD mental health unit along with assessment and treatment; (3) expansion of counseling and therapeutic services to defendants of

People might be surprised to learn that I am the first person in my family to graduate from college.

Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

and former board member of Chapter 61 Ministries, a non-profit created to combat human trafficking. Due to the success of our first initiative created to address human trafficking through the trucking industry, Truckers Against Trafficking (“TAT”) is now combating it nationally and around the world.

As for personal achievement, I am particularly proud of my experience as a co-founder

59

County Court at Law No. 14

Susan Skinner (R)

I

III

What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

Why are you seeking this office?

According to the Code of Judicial Conduct Canon 3B(4): A judge SHALL be patient, dignified and courteous to litigants, jurors, witnesses, lawyers and others with whom the judge deals in an official capacity.

I want to make a difference! I have sat at the defendant's table as defense counsel, and I have sat at the government's table as a prosecutor. I have been a CPS worker and a probation officer. The one place I have not had the opportunity to serve is on the bench.

I believe it is imperative for a judge to maintain a proper judicial temperament of patience, respect, and attentive listening in all court proceedings. As a public servant, a judge must exhibit proper judicial demeanor and court decorum, showing respect to all persons involved in the legal process.

Although, at times, a judge may need to be stern, there is no reason for a judge to be discourteous or callous. Judge Lori Valenzuela and former Judge Juanita VasquezGardner are two judges who I believe to have an excellent judicial temperament, which favorably impacted their respective courts.

My first CPS case was a 2 year old child who was placed bare-bottom on a fire ant bed for wetting her pants. This case greatly impacted me and I knew then, with God's guidance, I was here to make a difference.

As a probation officer, I helped offenders become productive members of society. As a prosecutor, I served the citizens of Bexar County by helping to keep our community safe. As a defense attorney I ensured a person's constitutional rights were protected.

As a Judge, I will utilize my experience and continue to make a difference.

II

What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

As a member of the John M. Harlan Honor Society at St. Mary's Law School, I came to know the work of Justice Harlan. I admire Justice Harlan for his several dissents in support of racial equality. Plessy v. Ferguson established the doctrine of “separate but equal" and held the separation of races was not inherently unequal. Justice Harlan, the lone dissenter, wrote a scathing dissent.

Justice Harlan stated our constitution is colored-blind and all citizens are equal before the law. Justice Harlan has influenced my judicial philosophy in that I firmly believe justice is blind. As a judge, I would honor this precept by remaining impartial and considering the relevant facts in a fair and impartial manner.

60

IV

After receiving my master’s degree in 1982, I spent seven years as a probation officer and misdemeanor court supervisor. In law school, I interned at the DA's office and was selected for a coveted internship with the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. After graduating cum laude from St. Mary's Law School, I spent 15 years as a prosecutor.

Most notably, I was a violent crimes prosecutor specializing in the prosecution of gang related crimes and drive-by shooting that plagued our community in the 1990's.

In 1999, I was selected as a first chair felony prosecutor responsible for the prosecution of child death cases, DV murders and child sex crimes. In 2007, I established my own criminal defense practice and currently practice in all Bexar County criminal courts.

I believe my strong record of academic excellence, extensive trial experience, and well-rounded work experience makes me the most qualified candidate.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

Two of the most significant issues facing the misdemeanor courts are length of time to take a case to trial and the alarming number of fugitive cases. The 2013 year-end statistics reveal 16,691 active cases compared to 16,459 fugitive cases.

Justice is served by efficient administration in each court, and this begins with a judge who is willing to work hard every day. Starting court promptly, being prepared, ruling efficiently, and working late will immediately help to reduce a court’s backlog. I believe each misdemeanor court should implement an accounting of active cases older than one year and set them on a "rocket docket" to have the cases resolved by a plea, trial, or dismissal within 120 days. Courts must work together to implement such a docket and reduce the backlog.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

A. Re-entry Court County Court #14 was designated as a specialty court for the Re-entry court program.

However, it became defunct this past June and lost funding. I plan to evaluate the program’s effectiveness and, if compelling, advocate for its resurrection with improvements.

B. Maintain low caseload and address high number of fugitive cases According to 2013 county court administration year-end statistics, County Court #14 has the lowest number of active cases. Specifically, there are 1,429 pending cases (of which 487 are fugitive cases.) I have practiced in all Bexar County Courts and have witnessed a variety of docket management styles. Drawing from my experiences, I will dispose of cases in a fair and timely matter to maintain a low number of pending cases.

It will also be necessary for me to address the fugitive problem and I would begin a monthly review of fugitive cases.

VII What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

The distinction which makes me the better candidate is well-rounded experience. I have dedicated my career to our legal system and bring 30 years of well-balanced experience to the bench. In those three decades, I have worked in many roles in criminal justice. As a CPS worker, I assisted victims of crime. As a probation officer, I supervised people placed on community supervision. As a prosecutor, I prosecuted people who committed crimes.

As a defense attorney, I represented people charged with a crime.

Experience matters because a judge must be fair. If your only experience is on the prosecution side, you might forget the importance of a defendant's constitutional rights. If your only experience is on the defendant's side, you might underestimate the negative impact crime has on society. And if your only experience is on the victim's side, you might not appreciate the significance of contested legal issues.

also work together on a solution to reduce the alarming high number of fugitive cases, also previously addressed in question #5.

The only impediment is that all county court judges would need to agree to the same solution. Also, I would like to see the courts permit electronic communication from defense counsel.

IX Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

If the question did not have the limitation of "non-lawyers", the answer would be easy.

Many law professors, judges, and peers come to mind but I struggle to identify a non-lawyer who has inspired how I approach legal questions. However, I'll defer to the lyrics from the song American Pie, "The three men I admire the most: The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost...”

X What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them? a) Although I have many newsworthy verdicts, my greatest legal accomplishment is years of successful service as a prosecutor and defense attorney. My most rewarding legal experiences are the relationships developed with many of the child sexual assault victims, whose cases I handled. b) I am the proud mother of two amazing daughters. Ashley is a deaf education teacher and Amy is a special education teacher.

They were both awarded Teacher of the Year at their respective schools. I am also grandmother to two precious granddaughters, Emma and Ella Susan.

VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

I would like the misdemeanor county courts to work together in resolving the backlog of cases addressed in question #5 and

c) During the summer of 1973, I broke the world's seesaw record of 384 hours. My friend Diane and I set a record of 400 continuous hours (16 days, 16 hours). On a more professional note, when I was a probation officer, I co-developed and implemented the ATSE (Alternatives to Shoplifting Education) program, that is still used by county courts.

I believe it's a Judge's responsibility to reduce recidivism. A misdemeanor judge is in a unique position to strongly impact a first time offender from reoffending and advancing to the felony level. With first time offenders, it is imperative to identify the underlying reason for committing the crime for which they are charged. Common underlying reasons tend to be peer pressure, mental health issues, drug or alcohol problem, unemployment, lack of education or job skills and many more. If the underlying problem is not addressed, there is a greater likelihood of repeated criminal behavior. I would consider pretrial diversion programs that identify and address the problems, and I would work closely with the probation department to identify and address the underlying reasons to help ensure a person completes probation successfully and does not re-offend.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

What happened to Michael Morton is inexcusable and a travesty. In light of Texas Code of Criminal Procedure §2.01, Brady, and Giglio, the passage of the Michael Morton Act should not have been necessary. The Act strives to ensure more open discovery and sets clear requirements of the types of evidence that prosecutors must share; but sadly, defense counsel still has no guarantee or way of knowing if the State complied.

What is needed is mandatory, harsh penalties for noncompliance. A judge can help prevent this from happening again by holding a “Morton” hearing, allowing defense counsel to inquire and requiring the State to reveal its efforts at locating exculpatory evidence, and holding in camera inspection of evidence if needed.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

61

County Court at Law No. 15

Judge Michael LaHood (D)(I)

I What do you consider to be your view of proper judicial temperament? Please elaborate and discuss.

A judge must be respectful, patient, attentive and courteous to all regardless of race, creed, religion or gender. A judge must br punctual and should rule in accordance with the law despite how unpopular the ruling may be. A judge’s ruling should clearly show “Justice tempered with Mercy.”

Proper judicial temperament is vital and necessary in the daily administration of justice. A judge should have the patience to preside over the matters that come before the Court and have a thorough understanding of the law.

Judicial demeanor should always be courteous and even tempered. A judge’s demeanor should be one of gravitas while on the bench.

II What Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (past or present) has been the most influential to the development of your judicial philosophy? Please explain why.

The Supreme Court Justice I most admire is Chief Justice Earl Warren for the decisions in Brown v. Board of Education, in which he was able to convince his fellow justices to produce a unanimous decision for the good of the country helped expedite the desegregation of public schools; Gideon v. Wainright , which held that the 6th Amendment provide all indigent defendants with publicly funded counsel; and of course, Miranda v.

Arizona, which guarantees an accused be advised of his rights before questioning.

III Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking re-election as Judge of County

62

Court at Law 15 because after 42 years in private practice before I assumed duties of Judge, and having been an Associate Mental Health Judge, I have the knowledge, experience and expertise to effectively handle all matters that come before the court. My many years in private practice have given me the ability to properly handle the court docket, the temperament to administer the Court staff and the wisdom to rule appropriately on the issues before me.

My goal, especially for young defendants, is to educate rather than incarcerate. And hopefully ensure their transition into adulthood as productive members of society.

I am seeking this office out of a strong desire to continue serving the citizens of Bexar County and to make it safe for my family and my fellow citizens.

IV What are your qualifications and experience in dealing with criminal law matters? Please describe why you believe that you are the most qualified candidate for the particular judicial office that you are seeking.

For almost 6 years I have been honored to serve the citizens of Bexar County as Judge of County Court 15. My service prior to that was as an Associate Mental Health Judge hearing cases that involved patients with mental issues. I served in this capacity from 1990 – 1999.

I was licensed by the Texas Supreme Court in 14967 and in private practice from 1968 until my appointment as Judge of County Court 15.

During my 43 years of private practice, I handled both criminal (felony & misdemeanor) cases and civil cases to include personal injury, worker’s compensation, family law, probate, real estate, and many other types of civil matters.

I served 26 years in the United States Army, active duty and retired. I retired at the rank of Lt. Colonel.

V What do you consider to be the most significant issues facing the Criminal Courts in Bexar County? What measures or changes (if any) do you believe could help improve the administration of justice within the criminal courts in Bexar County?

The most significant issues facing criminal court in Bexar County is recidivism and the high volume of DWI cases.

I have used my 43 years of legal experience to make certain that court personnel organize and manage large and complex dockets so that the Court serve a purpose and its resources are employed efficiently and effectively to serve the taxpayers of Bexar County and to ensure that justice prevails for all. I will continue to improve Court oversight of probation and pre-trial diversion and attempt to use the jail less and implement other sanctions more in order to decrease recidivism and improve compliance.

I will continue to call the court’s docket punctually every morning so that the attorneys who have other dockets to answer may do so, and so the general public, whether they be complainants, defendants, witnesses, or jurors can have their time in the Justice Center used most expeditiously and return to their daily routines and their families.

VI What are the most significant issues facing the specific Court for which you are seeking office? Please describe what you plan to do (or have done) to address the issues you identified?

Our most significant issue in County Court 15 is the backlog that still exists from the time the court originated. In order to have

a balance among the courts, each county court transferred a number of cases to us, to equal about 300 total. Most of those cases already had existing jury settings. The court was tasked with trying and disposing of the majority of those cases which brought our daily dockets to a near standstill. We have always and will continue to operate on a full-time basis to ensure that cases are adjudicated and disposed of in a timely manner.

VII

or the attorneys attending.

In the next four years, I would strive to assemble a committee of sections of the appointment list and ask that someone volunteer their time to be a committee chair of the section. Partnering with each chair, and the San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, I believe that we could provide no-cost of more cost-effective seminars that would have great relevance to the practice of law in the criminal courts of Bexar County.

What do you consider to be the most important distinction between you and your opponent in this coming election?

Why are you the better candidate for this judicial position?

IX

The most important distinction between my opponent and myself is the number of years of legal experience. I have 47 years of legal experience, nine years of service as an Associate Mental Health Judge, 26 years of military experience, and of course my 5-year tenure as Judge of County Court at Law Number 15.

My father, mother and older brother because they instilled in me that all people are created equal; that I should take nothing for granted; and treat everyone with respect and treat all as you would want others to treat you. I was taught to put my faith in the Almighty and approach all situations with common sense.

Please name three non-lawyers who have inspired how you approach legal questions.

X VIII What measures or changes could be made within Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice? What are the greatest impediments to the implementation of such changes in Bexar County? Also, please briefly set forth what, if anything, you would do in the next four (4) years as a Judge to address these issues?

Measures or changes that could be made within the Bexar County Criminal Courts in order to improve the administration of justice would be providing and requiring more CLE to attorneys on the indigent appointment list. The greatest impediment to this change would be, of course, funding. I believe there are avenues that could be pursued to achieve a greater number of seminars which would be of no cost to the county

What is your greatest legal accomplishment? What is your most significant personal achievement?

What is one thing that people do not know about you, which you think would surprise them?

not affect my sentencing decision. I handle every case strictly on its own merits. Justice is tempered with compassion.

XII Recently, the Michael Morton Act was passed because its namesake Mr. Morton was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned due to the State withholding evidence, which was clearly exculpatory in nature, from his defense team. Does the new statute go far enough? What (if any) additional measures or duties do you believe a trial judge has to prevent this from happening again?

With the Standard Discovery Motion and Order used in my courtk I have both sides carefully review the Discovery Motion and encourage them to come to a reasonable conclusion and initial the final order.

I have been very fortunate that the State and Defense have good common sense and treat each other with respect.

The State understand that I do not tolerate any violations of the Discovery Order and will deal with any violations accordingly.

My greatest legal accomplishment is graduating from law school and passing the bar exam on the first attempt. My most significant personal achievement is my marriage to my wife of 46 years. There’s nothing that would surprise anyone about me. My life is an open book.

XI Please explain your view of recidivism, and how this view does (or would) affect your sentencing decisions.

Recidivism is occurring too often, but it does

63

2014 Judicial Survey Results (510 Participants)

Judge Lorina Rummel 144th District Court, Criminal District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.38

122

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.31

119

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.33

122

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.21

123

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.11

118

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.15

120

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.84

212

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.70

211

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.65

212

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.45

214

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.38

212

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.44

216

Judge Mary Roman 175th District Court, Criminal District Courts

Judge Maria Teresa Herr 186th District Court, Criminal District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.79

206

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.23

205

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.90

207

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.60

206

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.71

205

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.58

206

64

Judge Raymond Angelini 187th District Court, Criminal District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.69

221

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.48

220

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.02

222

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.40

222

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.89

222

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.73

224

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.78

256

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.76

253

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.82

256

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.82

256

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.78

255

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.83

258

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.86

215

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.59

215

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.95

214

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.88

216

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.86

215

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.87

216

Judge Sid L. Harle 226th District Court, Criminal District Courts

Judge Philip Kazen 227th District Court, Criminal District Courts

* Responses based on a scale of 4, (1 = minimum, 4 = maximum).

65

2014 Judicial Survey Results

Judge Melisa Skinner 290th District Court, Criminal District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.23

185

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.15

183

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.97

183

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.55

185

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.77

183

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.76

185

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.53

213

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.52

211

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.50

213

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.68

214

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.53

212

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.59

213

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.98

199

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.98

199

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.89

199

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.87

200

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.92

199

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.87

200

Judge Ron Rangel 379th District Court, Criminal District Courts

Judge Ray J. Olivarri 399th District Court, Criminal District Courts

66

Judge Lori I. Valenzuela 437th District Court, Criminal District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.43

198

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.18

198

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.32

196

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.52

195

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.28

195

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.35

200

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.58

286

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.56

286

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.36

288

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.51

290

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.37

288

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.44

290

Judge Michael Mery 37th District Court, Civil District Courts

Judge Barbara Nellermoe 45th District Court, Civil District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.35

287

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.42

284

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.18

291

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.41

290

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.19

291

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.19

293

* Responses based on a scale of 4, (1 = minimum, 4 = maximum).

67

2014 Judicial Survey Results

Judge Antonia Arteaga 57th District Court, Civil District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.74

287

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.76

286

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.44

293

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.60

292

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.44

291

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.46

294

Judge David A. Canales 73rd District Court, Civil District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.41

220

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.42

220

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.25

224

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.42

226

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.26

225

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.28

223

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.27

289

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.41

286

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.17

292

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.46

294

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.31

292

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.30

296

Judge John D. Gabriel 131st District Court, Civil District Courts

68

Judge Janet Littlejohn 150th District Court, Civil District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.07

284

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.18

285

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.85

285

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.44

290

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.77

288

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.72

291

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.31

202

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.30

200

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.18

204

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.39

205

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.19

203

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.22

205

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.61

261

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.58

258

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.56

261

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.54

262

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.57

262

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.57

263

Judge Laura Salinas 166th District Court, Civil District Courts

Judge Cathy Stryker 224th District Court, Civil District Courts

* Responses based on a scale of 4, (1 = minimum, 4 = maximum).

69

2014 Judicial Survey Results

Judge Peter Sakai 225th District Court, Civil District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.45

304

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.38

302

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.36

304

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.46

302

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.37

303

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.40

306

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.61

281

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.63

278

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.57

280

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.66

282

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.57

280

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.62

283

Judge Richard Price 285th District Court, Civil District Courts

Judge Solomon J. Casseb III 288th District Court, Civil District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.56

299

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.61

298

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.53

302

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.63

302

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.46

302

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.53

303

70

Judge Karen Pozza 407th District Court, Civil District Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.33

304

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.28

301

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.23

306

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.94

308

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.17

308

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.15

311

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.76

325

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.77

321

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.65

327

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.60

328

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.60

326

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.63

326

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.89

263

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.88

260

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.52

265

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.97

265

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.64

267

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.65

266

Judge Larry Noll 408th District Court, Civil District Courts

Judge Gloria Salda単a 438th District Court, Civil District Courts

* Responses based on a scale of 4, (1 = minimum, 4 = maximum).

71

2014 Judicial Survey Results

Judge Carmen Kelsey 289th District Court, Juvenile Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.30

164

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.18

162

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.05

163

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

1.70

164

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

1.90

163

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

1.79

165

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.58

155

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.55

153

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.63

155

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.66

156

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.66

155

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.64

156

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.71

158

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.72

155

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.78

158

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.80

159

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.76

157

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.78

159

Judge Laura Parker 386th District Court, Juvenile Courts

Judge Lisa K. Jarrett 436th District Court, Juvenile Courts

72

Judge Polly Jackson Spencer Probate Court No. 1, Probate Courts Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.82

237

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.61

236

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.78

238

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.87

240

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.76

239

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.75

239

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.52

223

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.77

220

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.64

223

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.94

223

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.70

223

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.68

225

Judge Tom Rickhoff Probate Court No. 2, Probate Courts

* Responses based on a scale of 4, (1 = minimum, 4 = maximum).

73

2014 Judicial Survey Results

Judge John D. Fleming County Court at Law No. 1, County Courts at Law Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.25

178

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.16

176

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.28

175

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.40

177

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.26

176

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.29

177

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.60

205

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.63

203

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.54

206

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.60

206

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.46

206

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.50

206

Judge Jason Wolff County Court at Law No. 2, County Courts at Law

Judge David J. Rodriguez County Court at Law No. 3, County Courts at Law Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.63

164

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.63

164

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.55

166

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.67

167

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.52

164

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.57

165

74

Judge Sarah Garrahan County Court at Law No. 1, County Courts at Law Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.73

214

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.79

213

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.77

213

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.84

213

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.78

210

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.79

211

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.68

256

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.68

257

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.63

258

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.72

258

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.63

258

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.64

258

Judge Jason Pulliam County Court at Law No. 5, County Courts at Law

Judge Wayne Christian County Court at Law No. 6, County Courts at Law Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.81

231

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.65

231

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.73

231

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.58

231

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.70

232

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.60

233

* Responses based on a scale of 4, (1 = minimum, 4 = maximum).

75

2014 Judicial Survey Results

Judge Eugenia Wright County Court at Law No. 7, County Courts at Law Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.13

198

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.14

197

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.99

197

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.93

198

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.01

197

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.99

198

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.23

179

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.19

178

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.91

178

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.07

180

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.81

177

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.84

180

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.27

209

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.30

208

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.20

209

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.21

210

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.17

209

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.24

211

Judge Liza Rodriguez County Court at Law No. 8, County Courts at Law

Judge Walden Shelton County Court at Law No. 9, County Courts at Law

76

Judge Tina Torres County Court at Law No. 10, County Courts at Law Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.60

139

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.58

139

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.52

141

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.58

140

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.48

141

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.50

142

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.45

175

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.33

175

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.49

175

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.66

175

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.52

175

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.57

175

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.58

182

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.61

182

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.53

182

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.65

183

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.49

182

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.53

184

Judge Carlo Key County Court at Law No. 11, County Courts at Law

Judge Scott Roberts County Court at Law No. 12, County Courts at Law

* Responses based on a scale of 4, (1 = minimum, 4 = maximum).

77

2014 Judicial Survey Results

Judge Monica Gonzalez County Court at Law No. 13, County Courts at Law Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.50

182

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.51

182

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.32

180

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.46

181

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.30

182

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.35

184

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.32

190

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.15

189

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.38

189

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.44

191

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.43

188

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.29

192

Judge Bill C. White County Court at Law No. 14, County Courts at Law

Judge Michael T. LaHood County Court at Law No. 15, County Courts at Law Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.39

192

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.48

192

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.43

191

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.55

192

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.43

192

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.55

193

78

Judge Edmundo M. Zaragoza Precinct 1 Place 1, Justices of the Peace Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.26

69

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.17

69

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.22

69

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.33

69

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.26

69

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.23

69

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.94

17

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.00

17

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.88

17

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.88

17

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.88

17

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.94

18

Judge Jack Price Precinct 1 Place 2, Justices of the Peace

Judge Roberto A. Vazquez Precinct 2 Place 1, Justices of the Peace Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.39

54

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.44

54

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.33

54

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.33

54

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.33

54

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.32

55

* Responses based on a scale of 4, (1 = minimum, 4 = maximum).

79

2014 Judicial Survey Results

Judge Monica Lisa Caballero Precinct 2 Place 3, Justices of the Peace Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.33

78

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.22

77

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.22

78

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.33

78

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.17

78

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.32

79

Judge William Donovan Precinct 3 Place 1, Justices of the Peace Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.42

81

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.37

81

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.42

80

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.42

81

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.42

81

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.42

81

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.89

100

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.94

100

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.89

98

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.89

100

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.89

100

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.84

102

Judge Jeff Wentworth Precinct 3 Place 2, Justices of the Peace

80

Judge Rogelio Lopez Precinct 4 Place 1, Justices of the Peace Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

3.11

48

Is this Judge Punctual?

3.11

48

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

3.11

48

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

3.05

48

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

3.11

48

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

3.05

48

Average Response*

Count of votes

Does this Judge Work Hard?

2.61

21

Is this Judge Punctual?

2.67

21

Does this Judge Follow the Law?

2.50

21

Does this Judge have a good Temperament?

2.61

21

Does this Judge Rule Impartially?

2.50

21

Do you approve of this Judge's Perfomance?

2.53

21

Judge Byron E. Miller Precinct 4 Place 2, Justices of the Peace

* Responses based on a scale of 4, (1 = minimum, 4 = maximum).

81

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Nuts & Bolts New, Improved, Expanded 13.75 total hours of CLE credit, including 1hour of Ethics!

November 13-14, 2014 Thursday Night Reception & FREE Breakfast and Lunch on Friday!

Attorney’s who have been licensed for 0-3 years may attend this CLE seminar for FREE! The cost for all other attorney’s will be $75 for pre-registration (at least a week prior) $95 at the door.

Do not miss this CLE opportunity!

Save the Date and spread the word!

83