Hortick is seeking the seat previously held by Judge Peter Sakai before he stepped down to run for Bexar County judge. Her 16 years of practice has included civil and criminal law, with experience in the area of family law and representing parents and children involved in abuse and neglect cases. A graduate of St. Mary’s University School of Law, Hortick ran for the Precinct 3 county commissioner seat in 2020.
Hear from the candidate
Why should voters choose you?
The 225th District Court is an open bench and by statute gives preference to cases involving children and child protective services in addition to cases involving general civil matters. Given the backlog of cases due to COVID-19 court closures, it is vital that the person who fills this seat has the legal expertise in both of these areas, the ability to work with local stakeholders, and proficiency with the seven specialty Children’s Court dockets starting on day one. I have the experience to hit the ground running.
What do you see as the top challenge facing our local court system, and how should it be addressed?
The effects of COVID created an unprecedented backlog of cases in Bexar County, so working through that backlog is paramount. During the closures, courts adopted technology such as Zoom and electronic submission of orders to continue hearings and move matters along while in-person activities were suspended. These measures must continue so that we can address the backlog as we transition to a fully open courthouse setting. The pursuit of justice calls for judges and staff to be present as much as possible, and continued health protocols need to be utilized and tailored to protect the health of courthouse staff and visitors. Additionally, visiting judges should be commissioned as needed to hear additional cases.
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Sakai’s former bench draws 2 candidates with deep experience in family law
