May 13, 2016 - I need your help and most importantly your vote. I am seeking the office of District Judge of the 123rd Judicial District Court, which serves the people of Panola and Shelby Counties. The role of a District Judge is an important one, as he or she presides over criminal, civil, and family law matters. The decisions and rulings of the District Judge affect not only your everyday life, but your way of life. That is why I, LeAnn Kay Rafferty, respectfully request that you entrust me to serve you as District Judge.
I grew up in Shelby County in a loving, Christian, middle-class family. I returned to Joaquin to raise my children in the heart of East Texas---just one mile from my parents, Larry and Billie Jean Kay. Both of my parents worked extremely hard so that my sister and I could attend college and graduate school.
I, like many of you, am a hard working mother with two young children. I am the first lawyer in my family and my sister and I are the first ones in our family to obtain doctorate degrees. I work long days and often weekends so that I can provide my children with the same opportunities that I had, including being able to attend college and graduate school. I understand the issues and struggles you and your family face each day. I understand East Texas families because I possess the same East Texas values that you do.
I have continuously practiced law since I was licensed in 2004. After graduating from lawschool, I earned a prestigious clerkship with a Texas appellate court. I worked with nine justices wherein we reviewed civil and criminal trial court rulings and judgments. During my time with the court, I learned what it takes to be a good lawyer and a good judge. That experience will serve me well as your District Judge.
After my clerkship ended, I joined a litigation firm in Houston. For five years, I worked with some of the best trial lawyers in the State of Texas. I handled hundreds of complex cases, both with other lawyers and by myself. I tried cases both to a judge and to a jury and handled appeals all the way to the Texas Supreme Court.
The age and number of years that an individual has been practicing law is not the most important factor to consider in voting for District Judge. In fact, after a certain age, it may be a detriment. What is most important in electing a District Judge is the candidate’s energy and knowledge of the law.
Further, the number of cases that a person has tried to a jury is not necessarily indicative of one’s qualifications to serve as a District Judge. As a lawyer, I often obtain favorable settlements or take nothing judgments for my clients prior to expensive jury trials. I am able to procure these results because of my knowledge of the law. While a judge does preside over hearings and trials, a judge’s role is to interpret the law. The lawyers try the case.
I have significant legal experience and I was trained by the best trial lawyers and judges in Texas. I have the experience, background, skills, and work ethic to serve you. I will exercise my impartiality and neutrality, and interpret the laws as written. If you want someone who reflects your East Texas values and understands East Texas families, then I am the only choice for you.
It has been my goal throughout my professional life to return to East Texas and serve you as your District Judge. Now, at the height of my legal career, I kindly ask for your vote.
Together, we can win this election, but I need your help. I am the anti-establishment candidate and if you want a positive change, then you must exercise your right to vote for LeAnn Kay Rafferty for District Judge.
Early voting begins May 16-20 and Election Day is May 24.
Pol. Ad. by LeAnn Kay Rafferty
