My name is Kathy Vossler, and I am asking for your support to become the Judge of the 280^th Judicial District Court of Harris County, Texas.

The 2009 Legislature redesignated the 280^th Judicial District Court as the Domestic Violence Court for Harris County.  The voters of Harris County will select the individual, charged with the responsibility of hearing these cases, which are often heart-wrenching, and always important. I am asking that you select me.

Domestic violence affects people of every age, race, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, and country of origin. It tears apart families, destroys childhoods, and endangers lives. Its impact lasts for years. Domestic violence cases can spill over into criminal law, divorce, custody and immigration cases, and they affect every aspect of the lives of the people who are involved.

Over the course of my legal career, I have represented people in all kinds of family law matters, including family violence cases. As an advocate, I have represented the victims, the perpetrators, the children, and the wrongly accused. I have seen domestic violence up close and from all sides. I understand the dynamics that are inherent in these cases. I recognize the need to address the underlying causes of domestic violence through education, awareness and support systems, while protecting the family members via safety measures and punishment.

 If I am elected Judge of this court, I understand that I will have one of the toughest jobs in Harris County. I will hear the facts, apply the law, and judge each case on its own merits, using the experience that I have gained over the years. I will make my decisions in earnest, with full appreciation of the affect that my decisions will have on the people who come before me. I understand the ramifications of getting it wrong, and the importance of getting it right. I welcome the opportunity to be of service to you, the citizens of Harris County.

Thank you.