I am Donna Hughes, Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, Shelby County, and I am seeking re-election. I have worked in the JP office since March 2018 as Justice Court Clerk, and was sworn in as Justice of the Peace in January 2020.
Serving in the JP capacity, I am called upon for a variety of duties, both civil and criminal and must attend many hours of training each year to learn and apply the Laws of the State of Texas. I serve as a Magistrate for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the Center Police Department for Misdemeanor through Felony arrests. Each incarcerated person is given a bond amount based on the charge, with strong consideration for the safety of our citizens, and can include conditions such as emergency protective orders and interlock ignition devices. As a Judge, I’m responsible for Precinct 1 citations written by State Troopers, Game Wardens, Constables and Sheriff’s Deputies. Also, with probable cause, I issue warrants for these entities as well the City Police and occasionally even the Texas Rangers!
Civil issues such as evictions are the JP’s responsibility. Many small claims and eviction cases are filed each year in the JP Court with the jurisdiction limit of $20,000. It is my job preside over the trial, and do my best to reach a resolution and render a fair judgement based on the law. I’ve had a few disputes settled with a handshake after folks “talked it out” and realized that the lack of communication may have caused a misunderstanding. This is why Justice Court is often referred to as “the people’s court” because we are able to ask questions and get to the bottom of things in a civil, practical manner. Good ol’ common sense goes a long way here in the JP court!
My most difficult and humbling duty as Justice of the Peace, is also one of my greatest honors. My role at a death is to respectfully conduct an inquest to determine the cause. I am humbled to be allowed to do my small part, sometimes in the presence of the person’s loved ones, first responders, health care workers and law officers. This is when I know that my job is a calling from God, and I am truly thankful for it.
I am richly blessed by the good folks of Shelby County, and appreciate that you’ve allowed me to be your Justice of the Peace in the Center area. Many of you have prayed for me and offered kind words of encouragement, and I appreciate you. If it is God’s plan, I will continue to be your Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1.
I need your vote in the Republican Primary on March 1, 2022. Early voting at the Community House is February 14th – 25th.
Thank you and God Bless Shelby County Texas!
