Linda Garcia

What training, experience, and characteristics qualify you for this position?

I was unanimously appointed by Commissioner's Court to be the first presiding judge of Court 16 when it was created in 2016. I have handled over 100 jury trials as a judge, prosecutor, and Senior Assistant County Attorney. I held statewide office as a member of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. As the judge of Court 16, I enjoyed a reputation of being hard-working, fair, knowledgeable of the law and court practices, even-tempered, and respectful to all litigants, staff, and attorneys.

What, if any, alternatives to incarceration do you support? Please discuss program options, as well as when and how such alternatives can be used.

Often judges make a much greater impact by referrals to meaningful treatment programs, such as SOBER Court, Veteran's Court, the Reentry Program for mental health, or other pre-trial interventions. Permanent change is more likely for a person charged with DWI-2nd who completes treatment than one who serves some time in jail. I also plan to pursue community-based partnerships to help victims of human trafficking who may not be discovered but for being charged with a misdemeanor offense.

In setting bail amounts, how will you balance Texas’s constitutionally mandated bail requirements with other conditions of release including minimizing any public safety threat the defendant may present to community? Please discuss both first time and repeat offenders.

I would look closely at the facts and circumstances of each case to determine a bail amount that is fair to the defendant but addresses public safety concerns. A Public Safety Report is prepared for each defendant which provides important information, including criminal history. Especially for repeat offenders and in DWI and domestic violence cases, I would impose conditions, such GPS monitoring, no-contact orders, and ignition interlocks. I would address any bond violations in a timely manner.