Brendetta Scott

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

As a seasoned attorney with a diverse practice including Civil and Appellate Litigation, I am committed to justice and equality. I also teach Appellate Litigation at Thurgood Marshall School of 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?

Voters can trust that campaign donations will not influence my decisions. I am committed to upholding the law with integrity and fairness, values I carry with me daily and emphasized when I taught Professional Responsibility. I also support financial contribution reporting for transparency, ensuring that all contributions are reported and accessible to the public.

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

Running nonpartisan races could make justice more impartial by reducing political influence. This may foster greater public trust in the judiciary, as judges would be judged on qualifications and fairness. However, it might also make it harder for voters to assess candidates' legal philosophies.

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

Improving access to justice requires promoting bench diversity, incentivizing pro bono work, and addressing economic barriers. Supporting economic initiatives, expanding legal aid, enhancing legal literacy through community outreach, and promoting alternative dispute resolution fosters a more inclusive, diverse, and accessible legal system.

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

The creation of a new business court and statewide court of appeals in Texas marks a significant development in judicial administration. It is challenging to predict exactly what impact these courts will make; therefore, avoiding speculative predictions, my commitment lies in adaptability and upholding the law.