Backlog
How will you address the case backlog in your court to ensure timely resolution for all parties?
As Judge I will work as many hours as needed to make sure that each case in my Court is given a reasonable time for discovery and that after that the case is set quickly and efficiently for trial. I will use different setting lengths depending on the type of case and the specific situation in each case to give time for resolving the case through plea agreements or other resolution between the State and Defense. After a reasonable time, I will set the case for trial and have a fixed trial schedule to make sure that for each trial day a case will go to trial and be resolved. By going to trial often and consistently both sides will understand the need to resolve cases timely. I will also prevent constant delays by monitoring each case reset.
Efficiency/accessibility
How will you ensure efficient and equitable resolution of matters that come before your court, and that all residents — regardless of their financial means — have meaningful access to legal resources?
Efficient and equitable resolution of cases occurs when both the State and Defense have a fair and consistent Judge that rules according to the law during trial, when setting bond, in sentencing, and in the resolution of manyotions to adjudicate/revoke. I will follow the law at all times and give consistent rulings strictly following the law. As Judge, I will give each case the focus needed to make sure that both the State and Defense are using each setting productively. Harris County already has a system in place to vet defense attorneys that are available for appointments have the required knowledge, but I will monitor and confirm that each attorney is knowledgeable. I will also have as many trials as possible each year to resolve cases.
