The 388th District Court is a family court that handles divorces, modifications of child support, protective orders, adoptions, child protective service cases and juvenile prosecutions. The judge serves a four-year term and the starting salary is $158,000 a year.
Who’s running for this seat?
Joy Kelly Degenhart, 33, a Democrat, is an attorney in private practice.
Marlene Gonzalez, 69, a Democrat, is the 388th District Court Judge.
Candidate Questionnaires
Candidates were asked to limit their responses to 100 words. Responses have been lightly edited for grammar.
Joy Kelly Degenhart: I would improve the efficiency and consistency of the Court. I would eliminate the need for attorneys to frequently file recusals, creating an imbalance in the assignment of cases. I would focus on giving El Paso a court with a Judge that is fair and impartial and that upholds the Texas Family Code.
Marlene Gonzalez: In my re-election, I’ll focus on preserving and improving our family court’s efficiency. Expanding access to legal resources, especially for those without attorneys, is a priority through initiatives like the Pro Se litigant manual. I’m committed to championing diversity and inclusivity within the office, ensuring our court remains effective and accessible to the El Paso community.
Joy Kelly Degenhart: I saw a need with the current 388th District Court. There was a lack of accountability with the way that the court was being run, and I decided to implement accountability by giving El Paso an option for a new Judge in the 388th District Court.
Marlene Gonzalez: My transition from law to judge reflects a 33-year commitment to serve our community. Witnessing the impact of the legal system on families fueled my responsibility for fairness and compassion. As a family judge, I’m dedicated to upholding integrity, ensuring equity, and advocating for justice and familial well-being in our community.
Joy Kelly Degenhart: N/A
Marlene Gonzalez: Currently, in essence DeFacto we work as a specialty court in all matters contained in Texas Family Code title 1 through 5, meaning that we deal with all family law cases (paternity, terminations, adoptions, divorces, modifications, change of name, enforcements, division of property, child support among others).
Joy Kelly Degenhart: N/A
Marlene Gonzalez: I recognize the importance of fresh perspectives while valuing experience. If re-elected, I’ll evaluate the balance between continuity and change, prioritizing effective, ethical, and accountable leadership. My commitment is to the community’s best interest, ensuring thoughtful decision-making throughout my tenure.
Joy Kelly Degenhart: I believe that this court is vital to El Paso. I believe that El Paso deserves a Judge that is dedicated to the people of El Paso. A Judge that does not hinder the process with bias and established unprofessionalism towards members of the family law bar. I believe that the Texas Family Code should be followed and implemented to provide consistent rulings for litigants. I would strive every day to be the Judge that El Paso deserves.
Marlene Gonzalez: As the current Judge for the 388th Family DC, I bring experience, passion, and a commitment to the families of El Paso, Texas. My tenure reflects a dedication to justice, informed decision-making, and the well-being of families. My track record demonstrates both legal expertise and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. I am honored to continue my service and contribute to the betterment of El Paso through the role of Family District Judge.
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The post Meet the candidates for district judge in the 388th District court appeared first on El Paso Matters.
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