(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 the 2010 Election page listed at the top of the blog for a full list of Q&As and interviews.)
1. Who are you, and what are you running for?
I am Cheryl Harris Diggs and I am a Democrat running for the County Criminal Court at Law #12 bench.
I am a native Houstonian who grew up on the Southeast side of town and graduated from Jesse H. Jones High School. I am married and I have a son.
2. What kind of cases does this court hear?
The judge in this court presides over Class A misdemeanors such as DWI 2nd, assault, resisting arrest, and burglary of a motor vehicle. Class A misdemeanor punishment is up to 1 year in jail and up to a $4000 fine.
The court also hears Class B misdemeanors such as first time DWI offenses, theft, possession of marihuana, and criminal mischief cases. Class B misdemeanor punishment is up to 180 days in jail and up to a $2000 fine.
3. Why are you running for this particular bench?
I was not interested in running for a district court bench. I feel my personality is better suited to deal with the people and situations presented daily in misdemeanor court. After I was screened by the Democratic party, they placed me in the race for this bench.
4. What are your qualifications for this job?
I have been a licensed attorney for 11 1/2 years. I practice criminal law in both state and federal court. I am a graduate of the University of Houston Law Center and Georgetown University. I also speak Spanish.
5. Why is this race important?
People don’t care about judges until they have to appear in front of one as an accused person, parent, friend, potential juror or witness in a case. The decisons made in misdemeanor court can impact a person’s ability to get and/or keep a job, get financial aid for college, or to legally remain in this country. This is why this race is important.
6. Why should people vote for you in the primary?
People should vote for me because I am the best person for this job. I am capable, committed, and qualified to serve. I am patient and caring and will do my best to make sure that people who appear in my court are treated fairly.
Hello Charles,
Can you please provide me with your email address or contact information.
I work for Boxer Property and we are planning a get together for Houston bloggers to provide a behind the scenes view of the whole story of PlazAmericas (formerly Sharpstown).
I hope you can participate.
Thank you,
Silvana Campione