Mission
"Committed to the Community" and "Dedicate to Progress" are more than words. "Faith Without Works is Dead". It's time to work WITH one another and figure out solutions together. I want to work WITH you, the citizens, to improve our schools, lower truancy rates in Dallas County, and help low income families and veterans find and maintain affordable housing. I know what it takes to find solutions, navigate the obstacles, and get things done. Let me continue to make a difference.
Committed to the Community
Giving back to the community is the bridge that connects the nation. It is the central point of what our country stands for, as there is a key importance on doing good for others regardless of race, gender, or social status. Through charity and teamwork, our children are introduced to positive values such as humbleness, honesty, sincerity and respect. It's also a great feeling to know that you have the power to make a positive impact on your community. As life goes on I realize more and more how truly blessed I am and that's why I will always be involved.
Also known as "the lady with the cowbell" at all the Mesquite High School football games, I am a long-time resident of the City of Mesquite. I'm well known throughout this city, as well as Dallas County for my unwavering commitment, passion and dedication to the many charitable causes and organizations that I support.
Whether I can make a difference locally, or in a national capacity, regardless of how small or large of an impact I make, I am proud that I can make one. My biggest accomplishment would be that I have raised two exceptional young men that have also learned not to take even the smallest things in life for granted. They understand that whether you can give a little or a lot, give back.
As the Justice of the Peace, I put my words into action. I am proud to say that the work I have done for my community has redirected our course. Less than a month on the bench, I was able to work with the district attorney to dismiss over 100,000-backlogged case in my court. My efforts and initiative prompted Dallas County officials to examine the other nine Justice Courts' backlogged cases. In total, Dallas County dismissed more than half a million cases, some dating all the way back to the 1940's. Click here to read about the mass dismissal.
One of my main goals in office is to restore the trust between the courts and the public. The only way to achieve that is by making sure true and equitable justice is served. Therefore, I ensure that everyone's rights are protected and enforced. You can read more about my work.
Here are just a few of the small changes we’ve made that’s made a huge impact.
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All parking in the front of the courthouse has been designated as handicap parking spots.
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With the support of Dallas County, we’ve replaced all outdated computer equipment and software, allowing us to quickly and more efficiently serve Precinct 2.
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By cross training the court staff and clerks, we’ve decreased the wait time by more than half.
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We are now issuing birth certificates throughout the entire day instead of only two hours a days a previously issued.
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Our court is now hearing case 5 days a week, resulting in a drastic decrease in the number of backlogged cases, without the need to delay any current and incoming filings.
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We’ve installed a night drop to accommodate the citizens who aren’t able to see a clerk during the work day.
Dedicated to Progress
I've always believed that being an elected official takes the initiative to identify problems and devise solutions.
The role of the Justice of the Peace requires someone who is will represent our city ethically and with integrity. Someone that possess strong communication skills, knowledge and understanding of the law, including state and federal statutes, and most importantly, properly applying the law. I have a proven record throughout the State of Texas reflecting that I possess these skills. I understand the importance of treating each individual person as just that…an individual.
Since elected, you found in me someone with a mind well-suited to the world of law, and the ability to inspire support staff to display the same integrity and morals as myself. You also found someone that not only knows that it takes a fair, impartial and compassionate person to represent you, our citizens, but also someone that will stand with you and try to figure out a solution together.
We have finally entered into the 21st century. Our court now has the capability to accept your civil filings and payments through E-File Texas. We are only the second JP Court in Dallas County to implement e-filing.
Documents are transferred through a secure connection, with no need to wait on a courier, or stand in line at the court, and you never need to leave your home or office to file a document at the last minute. With e-filing, you can file a document right up to the filing deadline.
Benefits of e-filing includes:
Free access to basic e-filing and e-service functionality Access to file-stamped copies of filings Online tracking and proof of delivery
24/7 filing and access to electronically filed document
We are proud to serve the citizens of Mesquite, Garland, Rowlett, Sachse, Sunnyvale, Balch Springs and East Dallas. Please look for more exciting changes in the near future.
Commitment.
Integrity.
Progression.
Professional Affiliations:
State Bar of Texas – Paralegal Division;
Dallas Area Paralegal Association;
National Federation of Paralegal Association, (NFPA);
National Association of Legal Professionals, (NALS);
National Association of Bond Lawyers – Paralegal Section; and
J. L. Turner – Paralegal Section
Professional Accomplishments:
National Federation of Paralegal Association
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Elected as Ethics and Responsibilities Coordinator
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Author "Highlight on Ethics in the Legal Profession" bi-monthly edition of Inside Reporter
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Recipient of the 2017 Paralegal of the Year Award
Dallas Area Paralegal Association
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Appointed as a Board Member to the Board of Ethics
J. L. Turner – Paralegal Section
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Assisted President and Gala Chair in securing approximately $200,000 in pledges and donations from various organizations, judges, attorneys and law firms in 2016 for the 64th Annual J. L. Turner Scholarship Gala
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Elected VP/President Elect for 2018