El Paso Matters – Q&A: Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2 candidates in May 26 Democratic primary runoff election

Brian J. Haggerty: What separates me from my opponent is 15 years of experience, an understanding of justice of the Peace court law, and a deep love for the El Paso community. I have experience in real estate law, which directly benefits the court in handling eviction cases fairly and in accordance with Texas law. As chair of the Board of Trustees for El Paso Community College, I understand the challenges facing students and families, an important perspective when addressing truancy. I have completed extensive training, remain committed to ongoing judicial education, and require my staff to stay current on changes in the law.

Christie Saiz: What separates me is a 30-year career defined by elite certification and deep local roots. I hold a Master Peace Officer license and have completed over 3,200 hours of continuous education in Texas civil and criminal law as well as college in the study of law. Currently working as a bailiff/court coordinator for the courts. Most importantly, I have spent the last 15 years serving the Northeast. I understand the law and the needs, challenges and people of this community. I offer a combination of master-level expertise and local accountability that my opponents cannot match.

Brian J. Haggerty: Every year, I complete all required judicial education as soon as I can and take any additional training that will help me in acting as the justice of the peace. I make it a priority to take many training courses to stay current on changes to statutes, court rules and procedures. I believe continued education is necessary to interpret and apply the law accurately. 

Christie Saiz: Holding a Master Peace Officer license requires an elite level of proficiency and a deep understanding of the Texas legal framework. Throughout my career, I have navigated complex civil and criminal matters. I have a proven track record of interpreting statutes and maintaining public order, knowing the elements of the offense and comprehending how civil law and civil remedy read. Having served the Northeast for over 15 years, I understand the types of cases that come before this court and I possess the specialized training and local experience to preside over them with integrity and legal accuracy.

Brian J. Haggerty: I make myself available to my clerks and aim to be in the office Monday through Friday, allowing cases to be handled promptly and court schedules to run on time. Transparency is essential to public trust, and I will ensure court procedures are easy to understand and improve any that may be confusing. Information such as court hours, payment options, requirements and deadlines will be clearly explained. Communication with the public will be respectful, clear and professional. I will emphasize plain-language communication, timely responses and courteous treatment. This reduces confusion, prevents missed deadlines and helps resolve cases properly.

Christie Saiz: Efficiency in the “people’s court” comes from disciplined management, integrity and honesty. My 30 years of law enforcement experience, combined with my current role as a court bailiff and coordinator, gives me a unique “inside-out” understanding of how to manage heavy caseloads and prioritize resources. I will improve court efficiency by implementing a strict docket management schedule to ensure hearings are held promptly and decisions are rendered quickly. Regarding transparency, I will maintain an open-door policy regarding court procedures and how the system works. However, I will strictly uphold judicial ethics regarding ex parte communications. 

Brian J. Haggerty: The justice of the peace court is the people’s court, and I believe it should be accessible to everyone, regardless of legal knowledge. I will ensure court procedures are explained in plain language so individuals understand their rights, responsibilities, and options. This includes outlining hearing procedures, deadlines, payment options, and compliance requirements while remaining neutral and unbiased. My 15 years of experience have taught me how to manage proceedings involving self-represented individuals with impartiality and professionalism. By fostering a respectful, orderly, and transparent courtroom, the court can reduce confusion, prevent unnecessary penalties, and help people resolve cases properly.

Christie Saiz: The justice of the peace court is the people’s court and requires a leader who knows how to talk to people, not at them. My 30 years in law enforcement, including 15 years serving the Northeast area, have been defined by clear communication in high-pressure situations. I have spent decades leading teams and managing conflict by ensuring people understand their rights and the process. The legal system can be intimidating, especially for those unfamiliar with it. I have learned to simplify complex legal concepts so everyone, regardless of background, understands the process and feels confident they are treated fairly. 

Brian J. Haggerty: My political affiliation does not and should never determine how I handle cases in the courtroom. As a judge, my duty is not to a political party, but to the constituents and the sworn oath I have taken to uphold the laws of the state of Texas. Voters can expect that every case heard at JP2 will be decided based on the facts presented. I apply the law consistently and without bias, regardless of who is involved.

Christie Saiz: My 30 years in law enforcement have taught me that the law does not have a political party. Once I put on that robe, my only ‘affiliation’ is to the Constitution and the laws of the state of Texas. My political background informs my compassion for the community, but my decisions will be based strictly on the facts presented in court, ensuring that politics never interferes with the pursuit of justice. Ensuring justice is always intertwined with mercy and compassion regardless of a litigant’s political views.