Justice must be both firm and fair. Every person who enters my courtroom deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances.

I believe in the importance of rehabilitation alongside accountability, working to ensure that our criminal justice system serves both victims and the community as a whole.

My decisions will always be guided by the law, the facts, and a commitment to equal justice under law.

Meet Julia Maldonado: Former Judge, Community Advocate, and Candidate for Criminal Judge.

Julia Maldonado has spent years helping Houstonians navigate the legal system. As the former Judge of the 507th District Court, she handled family cases that often felt more like puzzles than paperwork. For example, she worked with families dealing with tough decisions about custody, always making sure everyone had a chance to speak and was treated fairly.

Julia’s path to the bench wasn’t easy. She’s a first-generation college graduate, and her experience as a Latina in Texas has shaped how she sees the world and the law. Before becoming a judge, she spent years as a lawyer, often representing people who felt overwhelmed by the legal system. She’s known for listening carefully and asking questions that get to the heart of a problem, much like a good detective.

Outside the courtroom, Julia mentors young lawyers and supports programs that help people understand their legal rights. She believes the justice system should be open to everyone, not just those who can afford it.

Now, Julia is running for Criminal Judge. She wants to bring her experience and her steady, practical approach to a new courtroom. She knows the criminal justice system has its flaws, like long delays and complicated rules, and she’s ready to work on solutions. Julia’s goal is simple: to make sure everyone gets a fair shot and a fair hearing.
If you ask people who know Julia, they’ll tell you she’s thoughtful, approachable, and genuinely cares about her community. That’s the kind of judge she’s been, and the kind she hopes to be again.