Accountability
What will you do to promote the just, prompt, and affordable resolution of cases that come before your court?
I serve Harris County as a Family District Court judge. We require parties to attend mediation prior to contested hearings. The Harris County Domestic Relations Office has a satellite office in the civil courthouse. They have a robust staff of family specific mediators to handle mediations at no charge if the parties income qualify. If not, there are a number of lower cost mediators who effectively mediate cases. I remind litigants that mediation affords them the best opportunity to evaluate what is best for their particular family dynamic. Oftentimes, parties are able to craft solutions that are specifically appropriate for their particular family situation. Mediation is less expensive and less time consuming.
Issues
What do you consider the most pressing issues facing family court today, and what is your role as a family court judge in addressing them?
The most pressing issue is the sheer number of cases of self-represented litigants. While the Texas Supreme Court has a website with a myriad of forms to use for most family law cases, not all litigants are able to navigate the forms and filing. For those who are unable to do so, the Courts and court personnel are relied upon to provide explanation and direction. We are unable to give them legal advice. We are, however, able to answer their questions and give the the extra time needed to enable them to have a better understanding of the process and what to expect. In addition, we have included in our daily schedule an express docket. Litigants do not need an appointment. They can attend via Zoom or in person.
