1. Who are you, and what are you running for?
I am Angelina Gooden, Republican Primary Candidate for the 280th Domestic Violence Court.
2. What kind of cases does this court hear?
This Court hears protective orders. It can also hear (a) original family law cases filed with a protective order, (b) cases involving custody of a minor child if one parent is alleged to have caused the death of another parent and there is a history of domestic violence in the parents’ relationship, (c) divorce and custody cases in which a court has made an affirmative finding of family violence involving both parties; or a protective order has been issued, involving both parties.
3. Why are you running for this particular bench?
The 280th domestic violence court was specifically enacted to hear family law protective orders in Harris County and it is the first of its kind in the State of Texas. It will be the model by which other counties in need of a similar court will look to. It is imperative that the purposes of this Court are achieved: which are (a) to ensure expedited hearings in protective order cases, (b) to assist the other 9 family law courts in Harris County with the heavy family law case dockets so cases can be timely addressed, (c) to curtail domestic violence, thereby decreasing the number of criminal prosecution of family assault cases.
4. What are your qualifications for this job?
I have practiced law since 1989, working for both private law firms and in the non-profit sector as a contract attorney with the Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse for 11 consecutive years. I am presently a partner in Gooden and Gooden, with my husband Elijah Gooden, III. I practice family law in Harris and surrounding counties. I have extensive experience in litigating domestic violence cases, including protective orders. With 20 years of practicing family law, my experience includes, appeals, mandamus, bill of reviews, jury as well as bench trials, custody cases, termination cases, CPS cases, complex as well as simple property division cases, parentage cases, grandparent access cases, and of course, protective orders. I have also served as an Amicus Attorney and Attorney Ad Litem to protect preserve the rights of children. I have also served as a Special Master for three Family Law Judges to hear family law cases in Harris County.
5. Why is this race important?
All Judicial races are important. This race is especially important because this is the first time voters in the State of Texas will elect a Judge to a domestic violence court. This fact alone will bring more awareness to domestic violence issues and allow more victims to see there is a way to break the cycle of violence.
6. Why should people vote for you in the primary?
I am the candidate in this race that has handled over 1200 family law cases. I am the candidate in this race that has represented applicants and respondents in protective order cases. I am the candidate in this race that has 20 plus years of practicing family law. I am the candidate in this race that has lectured on protective orders and provided extensive pro bono services to victims of domestic abuse. I am the candidate in this race whose name and reputation is known for working to end domestic abuse.
7. Why did you choose to run in the Republican Primary versus the Democratic Primary?
The Republican Party’s platform parallels my Christian beliefs.
Website: goodenforjudge.com