Andrew Johnson

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

I have been an appellate attorney for my entire legal career, including spending five years as an attorney with the Houston Courts of Appeals. I am also Board Certified in Civil Appellate Law.

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?

A major theme of my campaign is that judges should interpret and apply the law neutrally, as written, and without bias against or favoritism for any party. This includes interpreting and applying the law without favoritism for any person or group that has donated to my campaign. Lady Justice is blind.

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

I am not sure, but ideally it wouldn't because judges should be neutral and interpret and apply the law as written. Unfortunately, judges are far too often driven by their personal agendas and by desired outcomes for cases.

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

Fortunately, Texas has active organizations that promote access to justice for the underserved, such as the Texas Bar Foundation (of which I am a member). Lawyers should be prepared to refer those in need to these organizations. Moreover, because a significant portion of the underserved in Texas may speak only Spanish, courts should have Spanish-speaking staff to ensure proper communication.

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

I believe it will significantly help with the Courts of Appeals' delay problems. The business courts' handling of complicated business cases will lessen the Courts of Appeals' workload, helping reduce the backlog of appeals across the state.