Participants learn how system works from the inside
In November and January, six residents experienced a day in the life of a justice of the peace as Rhonda Redden opened her Precinct 4 court for the Judge for a Day program.
Redden began the program so people can learn what the court does. She wants to make it an annual event.
“It’s a good way for everyday ‘Joe citizen’ to learn what their JP court does for them and how it serves them, not just the people who utilize the courts,” Redden said.
In November, Stacy Stork, Mark Birchard and Albert Janecka participated as judges. Birchard worked in Precinct 4 as a chief deputy for the court over 20 years.
“I thought it would be fun to come in and do the program,” Birchard said. “I’ve been on the other side of the fence and I was curious to find out what it would be
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You are more likely to need a (justice of the peace) court than any other.”
— Rhonda Redden, Precinct 4 justice of the peace like on the ( judge’s) side.”
Michele Kelly, John Parker and Dakota Kennedy took part in January’s program. Kennedy, who is studying criminal justice and psychology at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, said this opportunity solidified her decision to continue with her major.
“Each (court) case was different and that’s what I love about it,” Kennedy said.
All six participants were astonished by the different cases that came before Redden in a day. January’s guest judges saw everything from traffic violations to a wedding during their visit.
Justices of the peace essentially hold “the people’s court,” handling small-claims cases of $20,000 or less, traffic violations and other Class C misdemeanors. “That’s why it’s called the ‘people’s court.’ You are more likely to need a JP court than any other,” Redden said.
In counties where there is no medical examiner, JPs also are often called to deaths where no doctor is present or law enforcement sends for them or a death investigator working with the judge.
Justices of the peace are not required to be lawyers under Texas law.
Due to legislative changes, Birchard noted Redden is taking on cases not handled by JPs in previous years. He added that on top of being overburdened, the court is also outgrowing its space and needs additional staff.
These are issues Precinct 4 Commissioner Russ Boles has already brought to the attention of his colleagues on the Williamson County Commissioners Court.
Parker and Stork said their day on the bench opened their eyes.
“She uses common sense and fairness,” Stork said. “(Redden) is very clear on the law, but then she’s also very compassionate and forward-thinking in the way she rules from the bench.”
“She has a huge heart for the people that she sees in her courtroom,” Parker added.
No other Judge for the Day programs are scheduled, but residents can follow the court and its events online at wilcotx.gov/625/ precinct-four.
Justices of the peace in Texas are elected, not appointed, and serve four-year terms. Redden’s term ends in 2027.
