Justice, 5th Court of Appeals District, Place 6District race (Texas) · 2 candidates
In their own words
Ben Smith
WebsiteBallotpedia- Key message 1
This race is important. For litigants in Dallas, Collin, Grayson, Rockwall, Hunt, and Kaufman counties, the Fifth Court of Appeals is effectively the court of last resort in most cases. …
- Key message 2
A candidate's judicial philosophy is a significant consideration when deciding judicial elections. The Fifth Court decides whether the trial courts in the district's six counties faithfully apply the law as written, without regard to political, personal, or ideological considerations. …
- Key message 3
Relevant experience matters. The Fifth Court of Appeals is general jurisdiction, deciding cases involving property rights, election contests, business disputes, family matters, and criminal convictions. My experience is broader and more extensive than my opponent's. …
Monica Purdy
WebsiteBallotpedia- Key message 1
Trial experience matters at the appellate level. Every day on the appellate bench, justices review records from trial courts. …
- Key message 2
Preserving public trust and court accessibility. Justice shouldn't depend on who you are, what language you speak, or the resources at your disposal. Our appellate courts must remain accessible, efficient, and transparent. …
- Key message 3
Upholding professional civility and decorum. In an era where public discourse can feel increasingly fractured, our courts must remain the gold standard for decorum, intellectual rigor, and professional civility. …