Amber Boyd-Cora

Qualifications: What characteristics and experience qualify you to serve as a justice?

My broad legal experience, representing a diverse array of clients and navigating complex legal matters, along with my in-depth knowledge of the judicial process, equips me to serve as a justice.

Ethics: Since judicial candidates solicit donations and raise money to be elected, how can voters be assured that campaign donations will not impact how judges interpret the law and review lower court decisions?

Maintaining public trust starts with a judge’s integrity and commitment to the law. Judges follow the Texas Code of Judicial Conduct, which ensures they stay impartial and avoid conflicts of interest. Additionally, campaign contributions are made public to ensure transparency.

Judicial Elections: How would the administration of justice be impacted if judges ran in nonpartisan races?

This might enhance public trust in the judiciary as impartial and fair. The downside of nonpartisan races is that without party labels, there could be a struggle to understand candidates' qualifications and judicial philosophies, which could reduce voter engagement.

Equity: What can be done to improve access to justice for all, including persons or groups who may be underserved?

Enhancing public awareness of the legal resources available in Texas is crucial. Numerous statewide and local organizations offer low-cost or free legal assistance, often using technology to reach underserved areas. However, many people remain unaware of these valuable services. To address this, we must work to increase public awareness and ensure citizens know how to access these resources.

Court System: What effect will the new business court and statewide court of appeals have on the administration of justice in Texas?

The new Texas business court and statewide appeals court aim to streamline high-stakes business cases. Proponents claim it will reduce backlogs. However, concerns exist about accessibility and fairness, as these courts may favor businesses over individual litigants, limit local courts' ability to address community-specific issues, and reduce accountability to voters since the judges are appointed.