Qualifications: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for this position?
ISSUES: What are the two (2) most pressing issues that you will face in the office that you seek? Describe your specific plans/ideas for addressing these issues.
Leah Shapiro
I am seeking my third term as Judge of the 315th District Court. I began my service to Harris County when I started my legal career as an Assistant District Attorney, almost 20 years ago. There, I trained as a litigator and tried cases ranging from misdemeanors to co-chairing capital murders (non-death). After almost five years at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, I joined the Harris County Public Defender’s Office in 2011. I was a founding member and now preside over C.A.R.E. Court, which works with victims of sex exploitation and their families as they rebuild their relationships and lives. As presiding judge, I ended indiscriminate shackling for detained youth appearing in court and piloted the dual status docket.
1. This year a restructuring of our DFPS and foster care system, called Community Based Care, is rolling out in Harris County. It will give local organizations greater responsibility and support for children and families dealing with DFPS. I will continue to work with Depelchin Children's Center, the Single Source Continuum Contractor (SSCC), Texans Together, and other stakeholders for a smooth implementation while not compromising the opportunities for families.
2. Firearms are the leading cause of deaths among young people. The courts will work with the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department, law enforcement, school districts, and community stakeholders to educate and explore interventions to increase safety for our community.
2. Firearms are the leading cause of deaths among young people. The courts will work with the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department, law enforcement, school districts, and community stakeholders to educate and explore interventions to increase safety for our community.
