As you know, in addition to selecting a Democratic nominee for County Commissioners Court in Precinct 1, precinct chairs everywhere in Harris County will get to select two judicial nominees, for newly-created courts. There are three people who have expressed an interest in the new County Criminal Court at Law #16. All three have submitted judicial Q&As to me for prior candidacies. I will be revisiting these for the test of this week.
Darrell Jordan was a candidate for the 180th Criminal District Court in 2010. Here are the responses he sent to me for the March primary that year.
Darrell Jordan
1. Who are you, and what are you running for?
My name is Darrell Jordan and I am running for the 180th Criminal District Court. I am married to Dr. Rhonda Jordan and we have two children Ashley and Andrew.
2. What kind of cases does this court hear?
This court handles felony cases. Felony cases are the most serious criminal cases such as murder, aggravated robbery, and sexual assault. The sentences in these cases can range from a period of probation to life imprisonment or in some instances death.
3. Why are you running for this particular bench?
I am running for this bench because I want to restore justice to the Harris County Criminal Justice System. I will work to promote courtroom efficiency by ensuring swift justice for victim and offender, saving Harris county tax payer dollars and creating safer communities as well.
4. What are your qualifications for this job?
As a criminal defense attorney I practice exclusively in the area of criminal law. In the past year my caseload exceeded 100 cases. In addition to that I have proudly served for the past 8 years in the United States Army Reserves, currently serving in the rank of Captain in the JAG Corps. In this role, I serve as a recorder (prosecutor) on separation boards. In addition, I serve as legal advisor providing answers to questions of law to the board (jury). I have also served in the Texas House of Representatives as a policy analyst for Rep. Hubert Vo and as legal counsel for Sen. Rodney Ellis.
5. Why is this race important?
This race is important because there is nothing greater than freedom. I believe in due process and my duty to ensure that it is carried out. As a judge I view my position as the last stop to ensure that justice is done in each and every case for victim and offender.
6. Why should people vote for you in the primary?
People should vote for me because I will ensure that justice will prevail in the courtroom. I know what needs to be done to ensure justice and strongly believe in my ability to get the job done correctly. I will support the Public Defender’s Office 100%. I will also implement a morning and afternoon docket in my courtroom. This will allow defendants to get their day in court as quickly as possible and it will also save the citizens of Harris County money by reducing the jail population.