1. Who are you, and what are you running for?
My name is Sheri Y. Dean, and the recently appointed Presiding Judge of the 309th Family Court. I am also running for the 309th Family Judicial District Court in Harris County.
2. What kind of cases does this court hear?
This is a family law court. The 309th hears cases involving custody issues, with special attention paid to what is in the best interest of the child or children involved. It also hears cases regarding parental rights, possession and access to their children, and child support. The Court has the jurisdiction to hear dissolution of marriage cases (Divorce), property division,and spousal maintenance (support) too. The Judge has the power to enforce orders related to these matters by imposing a fine, or in some instances, imposing a sentence to jail for violations.
3. Why are you running for this particular bench?
Family Law is my Life’s Work! Families Matter! I am currently serving as the appointed Presding Judge of this Court, since it was vacated by Judge Rynd in 2010. I intend to use my experience as a Judge, a person, and as an attorney, to make competent and consistent decisions in accordance with the law. My goal is to make sure that each person who comes to my court knows that I listened to their facts and circumstances, before I made a decision based on the law. I will use my experience as a business person to enhance the efficiency of the Court, in order to cut down on long waits in the courtroom which will reduce the time and expense for everyone to conclude a case.
4. What are your qualifications for this job?
I was recently appointed to Preside as the Judge of this Court due to my qualifications. I have practiced as a Family Law attorney in my own law firm for 18 years, before I began serving in 2010. I have experience in all nine of the Family Courts in Harris County. I have represented hundreds of Families and Children in all types of cases, with issues ranging from the simplest to the most complex. I have appeared as a Visiting Associate Judge upon request by the Courts over the years. I will use my Business Degree from the University of Texas at Austin in Business Administration, as well as my extensive education and experience in Family Law, to run an efficient and equitable court for the public. Please refer to my website for comprehensive information regarding my qualifications and personal history at www.Dean4Judge.com .
5. Why is this race important?
All races regarding Courts are important. We need Judges that will strictly construe the law as it is written and uphold the Constitution. Family issues are at stake in this Court. This race is important, because we need a Judge that will listen to persons who seek Court intervention, and then make decisions based on the law. Decisions by this Court on issues such as parental rights, best interests of the children, support, property rights, and enforcement of Court orders, touch on each person’s basic rights and liberty. The voter’s decision on who will be the judge of this court can affect the lives of families for years to come.
6. Why should people vote for you in November?
I am the only Judicial Candidate with current experience as the Judge of this Court. I have the broadest experience and knowledge as a prior Family Law Attorney and Business person to handle the tremendous case load with care and efficiency. I respect the law. My personal background, education, work history, and experience reflect my work ethic and personal commitment to all challenges. Many persons from all walks of life and position support me due to my commitment to Family Law and Justice for those who become involved in the process. See the website for a list of the persons and organizations who support me. My blend of those qualities and commitment are the reasons why people should vote for me in November!
Website: Dean4Judge.com
Facebook: Sheri Y. Dean
