October 14th, 2024

HARRIS COUNTY CIVIL COURTS AT LAW NAME NEW ASSOCIATE JUDGE

HARRIS COUNTY CIVIL COURTS AT LAW NAME NEW ASSOCIATE JUDGE

A veteran Houston lawyer has been tapped to serve as the Harris County Civil Courts at Law’s first associate judge, a newly created position designed to tackle the county’s increasing volume of eviction appeals. Judge Jermaine Thomas will begin hearing eviction cases on Jan. 8, 2024. Focused exclusively on evictions, his targeted caseload is designed to help alleviate the civil case bottleneck caused by the continuing surge in eviction cases across the county.

 

The 48-year-old lawyer comes to the county from Houston-based civil law firm Barry Barnes and Associates, where he spent the past two decades practicing law. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Texas Southern University and a law degree from South Texas College of Law. “I hope to run a court where individuals or litigants on both sides believe they got a fair hearing,” Thomas said. “I’d like them to walk away saying that I was fair, impartial, and I heard them — and I applied the law.”

 

In Texas, evictions fall under the jurisdiction of Justice Courts, with cases filed in the Justice of the Peace precinct where the property in question is located. Appeals, however, are heard by the Harris County Civil Courts at Law. There are 16 Justice Courts, but just four county civil courts to hear their appeals. Compounding the issue is the fact that evictions have risen dramatically in wake of the pandemic, especially as eviction assistance and moratorium programs ended.

 

During the first 11 months of 2023, the Harris County Civil Courts at Law reported 7,371 eviction appeals cases — more than double the prepandemic caseload of 3,568 recorded in 2018. The numbers have been rising since 2022, when Harris County Civil Courts at Law recorded 6,279 cases. “Even with our additional eviction dockets, the surge is creating a bottleneck that impacts our ability to hear all civil cases in a timely manner,” said Harris County Civil Courts at Law Administrative Judge LaShawn Williams, who also presides over County Civil Court at Law No. 3.

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

Scroll to Top
Search