Q&A with Melissa Ferguson; candidate for Erath County Justice of the Peace, precincts 1, 3 and 4.

Melissa Ferguson

Q. What are the main duties of the Justice of the Peace?

In Texas, the Justice of the Peace serves as a vital pillar of our judicial system, embodying the dual roles of magistrate and judge.

As a judge, they preside over a range of criminal and civil cases, including traffic offenses, Class C misdemeanors such as minor alcohol violations, and simple assault.

In civil matters, they manage small claims and debt claims up to $20,000, as well as eviction proceedings.

Additionally, as a magistrate, they have the authority to issue warrants and set bonds.

In counties without medical examiners, the Justice of the Peace also assumes the responsibilities of a coroner, ensuring comprehensive service to our communities.

Q. What steps are you implementing/will you implement to carry out criminal cases in a timely manner?

Upon receiving a complaint, it is imperative to expedite the processing of paperwork within the office to ensure cases are promptly added to the docket.

Given that this position oversees three precincts, the volume of cases is substantial, necessitating a judge who can effectively multitask and assume multiple responsibilities to ensure the office operates efficiently in all aspects.

Furthermore, the establishment and implementation of a juvenile diversion program for juvenile offenders are of paramount importance.

This initiative was initially scheduled for January 2025, and as of my latest information, it has yet to be implemented, resulting in juvenile cases remaining unresolved.

Q. What one area in this office would you like to see improvement?

A primary objective of my campaign as Justice of the Peace is to significantly reduce the number of cases

being appealed to county court.

During Judge Shawnee Bass’s tenure (2019-2022), there were 10 appeals.

In contrast, the current presiding judge, who assumed office in 2023, has faced 69 appeals as of December 31, 2025.

I am committed to implementing strategies that will effectively decrease these appeal numbers and enhance the efficiency of our judicial system.

Q. What are your thoughts on the importance of bond conditions?

Ensuring stringent bond conditions is paramount.

It is crucial to understand the various charges and the appropriate bond conditions to enforce. Without these conditions, a defendant may be released without any obligation to return or, worse, without any deterrent against reoffending.

As a judge, it is essential to prioritize community safety, and this is achieved through effective bond conditions.

These conditions clearly outline what a defendant can and cannot do, and without them, offenders remain at liberty to commit further offenses.

Q. What educational and career experience in your background makes you the most qualified candidate for this position?

I hold an Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice from Midland College and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from The University of Texas of the Permian Basin.

My professional experience includes serving as a court clerk for the current Justice of the Peace in Erath County, where I have gained valuable insights into how I can enhance this office for the benefit of our county and community.

Raised by hardworking parents and grandparents who instilled in me strong morals and values, I have also been influenced by my mother, a Justice of the Peace for four terms.

Her dedication has inspired me to pursue this path, as I believe it is my calling.

When asked what I stand to gain from this role, my response was clear: I am motivated by my love for this community, not personal gain.

While other opportunities may be more lucrative, my commitment to ensuring our community receives the justice it deserves drives me to continue advocating for this position.