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Walker to assume judge post next month
Submitted Photo - Barnett Walker, who was elected Collin County Court at Law No. 2 judge in a July 31 runoff, will assume duties Sept. 4. The Collin County Commissioners Court on Monday approved Walker taking office early because he has no Democratic opponent in the November general election.
By Dan Eakin, deakin@starlocalnews.com
Barnett Walker, who defeated Sharon Ramage for the Collin County Court at Law No. 2 judge seat in a July 31 runoff, will begin his duties Sept. 4.
The Collin County Commissioners Court on Monday unanimously gave Walker approval to begin his duties early because he has no Democratic opponent in the November general election.
Walker will occupy an office and courtroom in the Collin County Courthouse at 2100 Bloomdale Rd. in McKinney.
As a county court at law judge, Walker will hear cases such as those involving class C misdemeanors, family violence, drug possession, driving while intoxicated, prostitution and gambling. He also will hear civil cases in matters up to $200,000.
Walker is replacing County Court at Law No. 2 Judge Jerry Lewis, who retired a few months ago after serving with his staff for more than 20 years.
"The fact that Judge Lewis had the same staff for over 20 years speaks volumes about his leadership abilities," Walker said. "I am pleased to announce that both the court reporter, Mary Gay Black, and the court coordinator, Lisa Todd, have agreed to accept offers to remain on the staff. Their expertise will provide this court and our citizens with a wealth of continuity."
He added, "We are in the process of interviewing candidates for the bailiff position, following the retirement of former bailiff Doyle Dennison."
Walker praised other Collin County judges and said many have been helpful to him after he won the runoff election.
"We are blessed to have a magnificent group of judges here in Collin County, all of which have offered to assist me during the transition," he said. "With their assistance and the experience I gained from prosecuting and defending over 1,700 criminal cases, I feel ready to assume my duties. I am very grateful to have been given this unique opportunity to serve alongside such distinguished jurists, and I look forward to serving our community."
Walker promised to be fair and impartial in his rulings.
"It may be popular for politicians to run on a 'tough on crime' platform, but that type of mindset has unintended negative consequences for our taxpayers and the justice system," Walker said. "In my opinion, it is improper for judges to focus on anything other than rendering fair and impartial decisions."
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