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?
Dora H. Aguirre, 75, is retired.
Ruben Lujan, incumbent, did not respond
Yoli Rodela, 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?
Dora H. Aguirre: What separates me is my experience in law enforcement, the judicial system and public service, combined with leadership and a deep understanding of the community. I began my career with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Department as a detention officer for 17 years. I then made history as the first Hispanic female constable for JP Precinct 6 in Texas, serving 10 years. I continued my service as a booking bailiff for the El Paso County Council of Judges and later as the first female mayor of Clint. These experiences prepare me to serve with fairness, compassion and respect for the law.
Ruben Lujan: Did not respond.
Yoli Rodela: 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?
Dora H. Aguirre: I have spent my career working within the legal and judicial system, gaining practical, real-world experience essential to interpreting and applying the law. My background includes decades of experience working with judges, attorneys, prosecutors and officers. As a detention officer, constable, and booking bailiff, I became familiar with court procedures, due process, and the importance of applying the law consistently and fairly. I have completed required judicial education and remain committed to ongoing training. I will approach the bench with integrity, fairness, and respect for the rule of law, ensuring every individual is treated with dignity and without bias.
Ruben Lujan: Did not respond.
Yoli Rodela: Did not respond.
How will you improve efficiency, transparency and communication within the JP court?
Dora H. Aguirre: I will improve efficiency, transparency and communication within the court by focusing on organization, accountability and public trust. I will work to reduce case backlogs by holding court every day, ensuring matters are addressed timely while protecting due process. Consistent operations, clear scheduling and effective case management will keep the docket moving fairly. Transparency begins with clear explanations of court procedures, rights and responsibilities. I will expect court staff to treat every person with respect and professionalism. I will also work with the county attorney, district attorney, law enforcement and county officials to ensure cases are handled properly, legally and efficiently.
Ruben Lujan: Did not respond.
Yoli Rodela: Did not respond.
How will you ensure that people who come before your court – many without attorneys – understand the process and receive fair treatment?
Dora H. Aguirre: I will ensure that everyone who comes before my court, especially those without attorneys, understands the process and is treated fairly and respectfully. Many individuals who appear in JP court are unfamiliar with the legal system. I will explain court procedures, rights, and responsibilities in plain language so people know what is expected. Clear communication promotes fairness and builds trust. I will maintain a courtroom environment where every person is treated with dignity and respect, and ensure court staff provide accurate, professional and approachable service. Fairness also means applying the law consistently and impartially while offering clear guidance.
Ruben Lujan: Did not respond.
Yoli Rodela: Did not respond.
What does your political affiliation indicate to voters about how you will handle the cases that come before you?
Dora H. Aguirre: My political affiliation as a Democrat reflects my belief in fairness, equal access to justice and respect for the dignity of every individual. However, it will not dictate how I handle cases in the courtroom. My responsibility would be to apply the law impartially, follow the Texas Constitution, and ensure due process for everyone who comes before the court. Party affiliation stops at the courtroom door. Every case will be decided based on the facts, the law and the evidence and not based on politics. The community can expect that I will approach the bench with integrity and accountability.
Ruben Lujan: Did not respond.
Yoli Rodela: Did not respond.
The post Q&A: Justice of the Peace, Precinct 6, Place 1 candidates in March 3 Democratic primary election appeared first on El Paso Matters.
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