(Note: I am running a series of Q&As for judicial candidates in contested Democratic primaries. There are a lot of judicial races on the ballot in Harris County this election, and so this is intended to help introduce the candidates and their experiences to those who plan to vote in March. I am running these responses in the order that I receive them from the candidates. I will also be conducting some in-person interviews of candidates who will be involved in contested primaries for non-judicial offices. Please see my 2010 Election page for a full list of Q&As and interviews.)
1. Who are you, and what are you running for?
I am Janiece Horn, and I am running for Judge of the 245th Family District Court. Born in central Illinois, I came to Texas as quickly as I could. I obtained a B.A. and law degree from the University of Illinois, and I became licensed to practice law in Texas in 1980. I have been married for 28 years to Alan Pyle, and we live in the Clear Lake area with our three teenagers and a little dog named “Bones.”
2. What kind of cases does this court hear?
This court hears divorces, child custody cases, paternity actions, modifications of custody and support, C.P.S. matters, termination of parental rights cases, adoptions, and enforcement of child support , visitation and property division orders.
3. Why are you running for this particular bench?
I am running for this bench because I believe I can improve upon the handling of certain matters, such as the monitoring and collection of child support, and because I think certain practices of this court should be changed. I believe I can make a positive difference for litigants.
4. What are your qualifications for this job?
After being licensed in 1980, I was a general practitioner for several years, which afforded me experience in many areas of law. Since 1986, I have practiced family law almost exclusively, and I have been board certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 1991. I have handled jury and non-jury family law trials, family law appeals, and have occasionally been invited to sit as an associate judge in the family courts. I have mediated nearly 3,000 family law matters that are just like the cases I would hear as a family law judge.
5. Why is this race important?
This race is important because every resident of Harris County is likely to be impacted by a family court, either due to personal experience or that of a family member, friend or neighbor. The family courts serve people of all races, economic levels, ages and sexual orientation. It is important that the persons elected to preside in these courts remember that they are there to serve all litigants, and to apply the law fairly to all, regardless of status, and regardless of the judge’s personal beliefs.
6. Why should people vote for you in the primary?
I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my experience and special competence in family law, but also because I am dedicated to providing fairness and courtesy to all litigants.
Do candidates for judge declare party affiliation? How are they listed on the ballot?
as above
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