(Note: I am running a series of Q&As for Democratic judicial candidates on the November ballot. I am running these responses in the order that I receive them from the candidates. These Q&As are primarily intended for candidates who were not in contested primaries. You can see those earlier Q&As, as well as all the ones in this series and all my recorded interviews for this cycle, on my 2010 Elections page.)
1. Who are you, and what are you running for?
Judge Dion Ramos running for re-election as Judge the 55th Civil District Court of Harris County.
2. What kind of cases does this court hear?
Civil cases involve property – including money damages. Examples are suits to determine title to real estate, breach of contract, fraud, appeals of ad valorem tax appraisals and personal injury (such as industrial accidents, auto accidents, slip and fall and medical malpractice).
3. Why are you running for this particular bench?
I like my job and I want to keep it! I was elected to an “unexpired term” in 2008. The term is up in 2010 and is a four year term. I spent my life as a civil trial attorney for 25 years and wanted to give back to the institution I love. After 18 months on the bench I hope I’ve succeeded.
4. What are your qualifications for this job?
In the 25 years I practiced civil trial law I experienced almost everything that comes before a civil judge. I tried over 60 cases to verdict as a first chair trial lawyer so I knew a great deal about procedure, evidence and motion practice. As a Board Certified attorney in Civil Trial Law and Personal Injury Trial Law, I find it helps in aspect of my job as a judge.
5. Why is this race important?
For one, about 65 judicial positions are on the ballot in November 2010. A judge is the one elected official most people will contact directly either as a party or a juror. Further, the courtroom is a grand human experiment – laws are made and laws are enforced in trial courts. These laws effect everybody from drivers to business owners to parents. With so much at stake, I encourage everybody to visit the websites of the candidates and decide who you think is most qualified and most importantly vote! Voters can also look to some of the endorsement groups they like and see who those groups endorse. Many people go to the polls to vote for the well known candidates (like governor) and don’t take the time to know the judges and vote for them. With the internet (visit www.dionramos.com), its easier than ever to find out information on judicial candidates and then vote!
6. Why should people vote for you in November?
I am the most qualified candidate on the ballot for Judge of the 55th District Court. I have the most trial experience as an attorney and I have more judicial experience.
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