The County Criminal Courts at Law are criminal misdemeanor courts that handle cases involving DWI, family violence, bond forfeitures, burglaries and prostitution. Judges serve four-year terms and are paid a starting salary of $192,000 a year. 

Who’s running for this seat?

Frances M. Maldonado

Frances M. Maldonado, 45, is an attorney.

Christina Montes

Christina Montes, did not respond.

Sergio Saldivar

Sergio Saldivar, did not respond.

Candidate Questionnaires

Candidates were asked to limit their responses to 100 words. Responses have been edited to fit the word count and for grammar.

Why are you the best candidate in the race?

Frances M. Maldonado: Public service is personal to me. Having served as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney, I’ve seen firsthand how the justice system affects people’s lives from every perspective. I am running to ensure that justice in this court remains accessible, impartial, and swift. My broad experience across criminal, municipal and civil litigation allows me to approach every case with the seasoned judgment and deep respect for due process. As Judge Julie Gonzalez prepares to retire, I am ready to build on the court’s strong foundation with my own leadership experience. If elected, I will lead a courtroom that respects the time of jurors, protects the rights of the accused, and honors the voices of victims.

Christina Montes: Did not respond.

Sergio Saldivar: Did not respond.

What would be your top priority if you are elected to this position and how would you ensure your goal is met?

Frances M. Maldonado: If elected, my primary goal is to ensure our legal system in this court remains both efficient and just. I will safeguard the constitutional right to a speedy trial by maintaining a disciplined docket and prioritizing jury trials to resolve cases so that all parties can have closure. I will ensure that cases involving incarcerated individuals are promptly scheduled to prevent backlogs and protect due process.

Christina Montes: Did not respond.

Sergio Saldivar: Did not respond.

As an attorney, how many cases have you tried in court?

Frances M. Maldonado: As a prosecutor with the District Attorney’s Domestic Violence Unit, I managed hundreds of cases and handled countless contested hearings in various district and county courts. With more than a decade of courtroom experience, I have tried more than 40 cases to jury verdict. I have litigated a broad range of criminal cases, from misdemeanors to the most serious felonies including domestic violence, aggravated assault, and crimes against children. I have also managed complex personal injury and trucking accident cases in preparation for trial in state and federal courts. 

Christina Montes: Did not respond.

Sergio Saldivar: Did not respond.

How would you manage your docket efficiently while also respecting the rights of parties in your courtroom?

Frances M. Maldonado: Having practiced in this court, I know the docket is well managed and extremely efficient. If elected, I will continue the pace at which the caseload is currently managed. I will prioritize early case assessment, efficient scheduling, and clear communication with attorneys to ensure matters move forward without unnecessary delay. I will continue to hold some remote hearings to ensure cost-effective judicial operations.

Christina Montes: Did not respond.

Sergio Saldivar: Did not respond.

Why are you running as a Democrat and what beliefs and values do you hold that are key to serving as a judge?

Frances M. Maldonado: I am a lifelong Democrat. My values align with the principles of fairness, equality and public service that the Democratic Party represents. 

Christina Montes: Did not respond.

Sergio Saldivar: Did not respond.

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