(Note: As I have done in past elections, I am running a series of Q&As for judicial candidates in contested Democratic primaries. 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. You can see other Q&As and further information about judicial candidates on my 2018 Judicial page.
Margaret Poissant
1. Who are you and what are you running for?
My name is Margaret Poissant and I am running for 14th Court of Appeals Place 8.
2. What kind of cases does this court hear?
The 14th Court of Appeals hears both civil and criminal appeals of cases tried in 10 counties in Texas, with the exception of death penalty cases.
3. Why are you running for this particular bench?
I am running for this bench because Texas needs independent thinkers with strong experience in several areas of the law to ensure justice for all Texas citizens. Justices should work hard, be fair, and follow the law.
4. What are your qualifications for this job?
My qualifications for this very important position are detailed on my website, poissantforjustice.com, and include my experience in hundreds of cases, both civil and criminal, (primarily civil cases in Harris County), which has given me a strong understanding of various legal issues; Martindale-Hubbell ratings for highest ethical standards by my peers and by judicial rating; trial and mediation experience, as well as the handling of hundreds of cases without resort to litigation; my understanding of community issues and volunteer work, including assisting SN 22 with the drafting of city ordinances to submit to the City of Houston; and bar licenses in both Texas and New York. I have run two businesses successfully.
5. Why is this race important?
This race is important because the rulings by the 14th Court of Appeals affects all citizens in the State of Texas.
6. Why should people vote for you in the primary?
People should vote for me because I am well grounded, have the necessary experience to perform the job, have a strong ethical background, am respected by my peers, and will follow the law. I have support for my candidacy by individuals in Texas and my peers.