This diary, in a series about Democratic nominees in Harris County, is about Judge Alexandra Smoots-Hogan, who is seeking re-election to the bench of the 133rd Civil District Court. District courts are trial courts for major cases.
I am a vounteer this year in politics. I am not a lawyer.
Alexandra Smoots-Hogan has her law degree from the South Texas College of Law (recently renamed Houston College of Law but name change under litigation). Before college she graduated from Kinkaid (my alma mater!), where she excelled in debating. She then attended The University of Texas at Austin, where she was active in student government. After a break to care for an ailing family member she graduated from the University of Saint Thomas (Houston) with an honors degree in communications.
She joined the trial section at Brown McCarroll's Houston Office After a few year she stated taking clients of her own, in transition to solo law practice. She became licensed to practice in the Southern District of Texas, i. e. a Federal court. She opened her own law office Oct. 2007. This firm became known as Smoots-Hogan, Brockman, & Brauchle. Judge Smoots-Hogan. She defended individuals, homeowners, small companies, and municipalities.
She was first elected to her present bench in 2008 and re-elected in 2012 with the most votes of any judicial candidate in the county. In 2009 she significantly reduced the court’s docket, presiding over some 100 jury trials in her first term.
Because of illnesses in her family she has been an active supporter of children's and cancer charities.
She often speaks before certain groups on advancement of women in professional careers.
Campaigns cost money and a donation would be appreciated.
The final election date is Tuesday, Nov. 8. To vote you must be registered in Harris County at least 30 days prior to Nov. 8. Early voting starts Monday Oct. 24. Voting early gives one time to rectify problems, avoid long lines at the polls. You may vote early at any of the locations in Harris County, but on Nov. 8 you must vote at your precinct location.