Criminal District Judge, 497th Judicial District
Breanna Schwartz
Democrat
Accountability
What will you do to promote the just, prompt, and affordable resolution of cases that come before your court?
I will take an active role in case management in the court with schedules, clear court expectations, communicating with involved parties about delays, and setting efficient trial schedules. I intend to hold trials regularly to promote timely resolution of cases and reduce pre-trial detention concerns for the community and defendants. Trials can be a time and monetary burden for jurors and witnesses; I will conduct jury selections at the end of the week, so all parties know which case will be in trial and can prepare accordingly. Regarding defendants, when appropriate, I will allow for appearance waivers in early case stages while evidence collection is ongoing, to ensure people do not have to needlessly take time off work.
Bail
In setting bail amounts, how will you balance Texas’s constitutionally mandated bail requirements with other conditions of release including minimizing any public safety threat the defendant may present to the community? Please discuss both first time and repeat offenders.
I will evaluate everything on a case-by-case basis and follow the law as required by the U.S. and Texas constitutions and statutes. I will consider all evidence presented to make an informed decision on what bail amounts and conditions are necessary to ensure public safety. Whether or not a person is a first-time or repeat offender is part of the evidence in setting bail amounts and conditions, and factors surrounding that information may impact what the best course of action is for appropriate bail along with other factors such as the type of crime alleged. One of the strongest mitigants available for pre-trial detention issues is for judges to ensure the prompt resolution of cases, reducing the impact of these difficult decisions.
