Justices of the Peace hear civil matters in which the dispute does not exceed $20,000, as well as certain criminal misdemeanors that can be punished by fines but not jail time. Justices of the peace, who do not require law degrees, serve four-year terms and are paid $114,541 a year.

Who’s running for this seat?

Denise Butterworth

Denise Butterworth, 51, is an attorney.

Octavio Dominguez

Octavio Dominguez, 45, is an attorney.

Candidate Questionnaires

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

What qualifications separate you from your opponent?

Denise Butterworth: I have been a practicing trial attorney for 25 years. I have tried over 35 high-profile murder/capital murder cases and lived inside of the courtroom for my entire career. I was entrusted to handle the most serious of cases as a former prosecutor, to include the beginning stages of the prosecution of the Walmart shooter, because I have a proven track record of sound judgment, knowledge of the law, and being fair and just. I was the supervisor of the homicide unit at the DA’s Office for over 10 years and trained and mentored many attorneys, legal assistants and investigators throughout that time.

Octavio Dominguez: I bring a combination of courtroom experience, administrative ability, and judicial temperament that sets me apart. I have worked in busy court systems, managing heavy caseloads and working closely with court staff, attorneys, and the public to ensure cases move efficiently and fairly. I understand how courts function day to day and bring the patience, professionalism, and fairness required of a justice of the peace, allowing me to serve effectively from day one.

Texas does not require justices of the peace to be licensed attorneys. If you are an attorney, how does your legal background prepare you for the types of cases you’ll preside over? If you are not, how have you prepared yourself to interpret and apply the law accurately in your courtroom?

Denise Butterworth: A judge will need to understand the law that applies to the selection of a jury for trial, the rules of evidence to determine the admissibility of both witness testimony and exhibits and how to the apply the law. As a trial attorney, I have had to be ready to argue all applicable law to a judge in order to prevail in the lawsuit. I now have 25 years of experience doing exactly this, and I am hoping the voters will appreciate my vast experience.

Octavio Dominguez: I am the only candidate who is an actively practicing attorney with current experience in justice of the peace courts. I routinely handle traffic, landlord-tenant, and small claims cases and have done so within the past year. This work gives me firsthand knowledge of JP court procedures and their real-world impact. Unlike other candidates, I do not need on-the-job training and am prepared to serve effectively from day one.

How will you improve efficiency, transparency and communication within the JP court?

Denise Butterworth: Any court and its docket should be open for the public to observe and participate if they are need of judicial help. My court will be accessible both online and in person, and we will be prepared always to help and answer any and all questions in a timely and just manner. Many issues that come before a Justice of the Peace will inherently demand time sensitive rulings, especially eviction cases. I will do my best to honor and respect the time involved for all litigants that come before the court.

Octavio Dominguez: I will improve court operations by maintaining consistent procedures and court hours that provide meaningful access for all litigants. I will emphasize coordination between the judge and court staff so information is accurate, timely, and consistent. Clear internal communication and organized dockets lead to fewer delays, fewer errors, and a court that functions efficiently while remaining open and responsive to the public.

How will you ensure that people who come before your court – many without attorneys – understand the process and receive fair treatment?

Denise Butterworth: I was duty bound as a former prosecutor to always seek justice, and I pride myself that I always fully respected the power that was inherently involved with that position. I am both fair and kind and will help and respect those that come before me and ensure that they are never taken advantage of. I believe after 25 years of practicing in El Paso that I have earned a reputation for being respectful and fair.

Octavio Dominguez: I will explain court procedures and decisions in plain language, ensure proceedings are consistent and respectful, and give all litigants a meaningful opportunity to be heard. Fair treatment begins with clarity, patience, and a court environment where everyone is treated with dignity, regardless of whether they have an attorney.

What does your political affiliation indicate to voters about how you will handle the cases that come before you?

Denise Butterworth: I am hoping that my political affiliation will help voters trust that I will be fair, equitable, knowledgeable, hard-working and will see that I am the most qualified for this bench.

Octavio Dominguez: It doesn’t. My political affiliation plays no role in how I will handle cases. Cases will be handled in accordance with the law and the facts, without favoritism or political influence. If elected, my responsibility would be to apply the law fairly, consistently, and impartially to every person who appears before the court. Voters can expect decisions grounded in the law, respect for due process, and a commitment to treating all litigants with dignity, regardless of background, beliefs or political affiliation.

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