Bio info

Name: Jose Castillo

Age: 42

Occupation: Assistant District Attorney

Website: www.CastilloForJudge.com

Residence: West Side

Relevant Experience:

1. What is the most important issue facing the court?

The El Paso County Criminal District Court No. 1 is a brand new court. It was created this past legislative session to deal primarily with narcotic offenders. I intend to follow the lead of our legislators and will ensure that drug offense cases are heard justly before the court.

2. How do district courts differ from county courts?

District courts have jurisdiction over family law, felony criminal and civil law. County courts only have jurisdiction over misdemeanor criminal cases and civil cases.

3. Is the local system of oversight sufficient to protect the public from unfair judges? If so, why, and if not, how would you change it?

Judges are held directly accountable to the voters. Should a judge’s performance not reach the expectations of the voters, they are elected out of office. However, there should be a greater degree of scrutiny and information that reaches the voters so they can make informed decisions. I am in favor of any changes in the system that promotes greater access to the voting public.

4. What experience do you have with the law that will make you a good judge?

I have over 17 years of legal experience. More importantly, I am the only candidate that has any background in dealing with and prosecuting narcotic and other drug offenders with over seven years of experience prosecuting such cases with the El Paso District Attorneys Office.

5. What is your position on the trend at the state level to either consolidate the county and district courts or to allow them to hear similar cases?

I am in favor of any consolidation that will result in decreased dockets for our courts. The public has a right to fair and timely justice. Justice delayed is justice denied.

6. In El Paso, it seems like lawyers and judges know each other, either as friends or as political opponents, something perhaps similar to most communities. What are some of the situations under which you think a judge ought to recuse himself? Are the rules clear enough and if not, how would you change them?

It is my opinion that the rules of judicial conduct are clear. Each judge understands and should follow them to the letter. Personally, I would remove myself from any instance that the potential for impropriety may develop.

7. Is there fair access to justice for everyone? How would you improve access; specifically, how would you support public defenders?

Our system of justice offers fair and equal access to all. The County Criminal District Court No. 1 would undoubtedly see a high level of public defenders. As a judge it is my responsibility to ensure equal treatment for both the defendant and the prosecution.