Justices of the Peace hear civil matters in which the dispute does not exceed $20,000, as well as certain criminal misdemeanors that can be punished by fines but not jail time. Justices of the peace, who do not require law degrees, serve four-year terms and are paid $114,541 a year.
Who’s running for this seat?
Denise Butterworth, did not respond.
Octavio Dominguez, 45, is an attorney.
Shane Edmonson, did not respond.
Diego Vasquez, did not respond.
Richard Velez, did not respond.
Candidate Questionnaires
Candidates were asked to limit their responses to 100 words. Responses have been edited to fit the word count and for grammar.
What qualifications separate you from your opponent?
Denise Butterworth: Did not respond.
Octavio Dominguez: I bring a combination of courtroom experience, administrative ability, and judicial temperament that sets me apart. I have worked in busy court systems, managing heavy caseloads and working closely with court staff, attorneys, and the public to ensure cases move efficiently and fairly. I understand how courts function day to day and bring the patience, professionalism, and fairness required of a justice of the peace, allowing me to serve effectively from day one.
Shane Edmonson: Did not respond.
Diego Vasquez: Did not respond.
Richard Velez: Did not respond.
Texas does not require justices of the peace to be licensed attorneys. If you are an attorney, how does your legal background prepare you for the types of cases you’ll preside over? If you are not, how have you prepared yourself to interpret and apply the law accurately in your courtroom?
Denise Butterworth: Did not respond.
Octavio Dominguez: I am the only candidate who is an actively practicing attorney with current experience in justice of the peace courts. I routinely handle traffic, landlord-tenant, and small claims cases and have done so within the past year. This work gives me firsthand knowledge of JP court procedures and their real-world impact. Unlike other candidates, I do not need on-the-job training and am prepared to serve effectively from day one.
Shane Edmonson: Did not respond.
Diego Vasquez: Did not respond.
Richard Velez: Did not respond.
How will you improve efficiency, transparency and communication within the JP court?
Denise Butterworth: Did not respond.
Octavio Dominguez: I will improve court operations by maintaining consistent procedures and court hours that provide meaningful access for all litigants. I will emphasize coordination between the judge and court staff so information is accurate, timely, and consistent. Clear internal communication and organized dockets lead to fewer delays, fewer errors, and a court that functions efficiently while remaining open and responsive to the public.
Shane Edmonson: Did not respond.
Diego Vasquez: Did not respond.
Richard Velez: Did not respond.
How will you ensure that people who come before your court – many without attorneys – understand the process and receive fair treatment?
Denise Butterworth: Did not respond.
Octavio Dominguez: I will explain court procedures and decisions in plain language, ensure proceedings are consistent and respectful, and give all litigants a meaningful opportunity to be heard. Fair treatment begins with clarity, patience, and a court environment where everyone is treated with dignity, regardless of whether they have an attorney.
Shane Edmonson: Did not respond.
Diego Vasquez: Did not respond.
Richard Velez: Did not respond.
What does your political affiliation indicate to voters about how you will handle the cases that come before you?
Denise Butterworth: Did not respond.
Octavio Dominguez: It doesn’t. My political affiliation plays no role in how I will handle cases. Cases will be handled in accordance with the law and the facts, without favoritism or political influence. If elected, my responsibility would be to apply the law fairly, consistently, and impartially to every person who appears before the court. Voters can expect decisions grounded in the law, respect for due process, and a commitment to treating all litigants with dignity, regardless of background, beliefs or political affiliation.
Shane Edmonson: Did not respond.
Diego Vasquez: Did not respond.
Richard Velez: Did not respond.
The post Q&A: Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1 candidates in March 3 Democratic primary election appeared first on El Paso Matters.
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