Today we’d like to introduce you to Katherine Thomas.
Hi Katherine, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Katherine Thomas is a native Houstonian; she attended the High School for Performing and Visual Arts (“HSPVA”) where she majored in Theatre. While at HSPVA, Katherine fell in love with oral advocacy and has committed her life to public service. Katherine moved to Atlanta to study Political Science and Pre-Law at Spelman College. While at Spelman Katherine interned under President Obama’s administration in the office of Presidential Correspondence. After Spelman, Katherine attended Howard University School of Law in Washington D.C. where she represented underrepresented constituents in the Criminal Justice Clinic. Katherine’s experience attending Spelman College and Howard University School of Law helped her understand how to use her influence and leadership to effect social change. After graduating from Howard University School of Law, Katherine transitioned back to Houston to continue pursuing her life’s work as a public servant. Katherine began her legal career at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office where she currently serves as an Assistant District Attorney.
As an African American woman raised in Houston, Katherine has firsthand knowledge of the disproportionate treatment that black and brown men and women experience when faced with criminal allegations. Katherine takes solace in knowing she is making a difference in her community by applying the law fairly, speaking up for unjust sentencing, and holding every participant in the criminal justice system accountable. Katherine is committed to bringing safety back to our communities and trust in the criminal justice system.
She is running to serve as a Criminal District Court Judge in the 184th to work hard for the constituents of Harris County. Katherine has a staunch commitment to keep accountability and integrity at the center of everything that she does. She will use her experience and her core values to make safety a priority in her decisions as a judge in the 184th Criminal District Court.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road. In fact, running for public office has been one of the most challenging things I have ever done. Running for public office is challenging because you are constantly proving yourself. From voters to endorsements to fundraising. Campaigning can sometimes feel like a never-ending race. As a candidate, I’ve faced criticism that sometimes felt crippling. I am thankful that I was able to see the bigger picture and accomplish my goals despite adversity.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
About Me- First, I am a daughter of Houston. I was born and raised in this community. I am a double HBCU graduate from Spelman College and Howard University School of Law. Those educational experiences taught me to be a social engineer and critical thinker. While attending those institutions, I was given the opportunity to intern at the White House under the leadership of President Obama. While attending law school, I pursued criminal defense work in the Criminal Justice Clinic where I represented indigent clients. I was able to try cases in the District of Columbia and facilitate gaining the best outcome for my clients. After law school, I knew that I wanted to return home to serve my community. I have served this community in many ways. First, in my role as an Assistant District Attorney. As an Assistant District Attorney, I handle and try cases. On average, I have balanced a caseload of over 2,000 cases.
About Criminal District Courts- District Court Judges have jurisdiction to hear felony cases in Harris County, Texas. This office sets bonds on cases that come before the court. After setting bonds, the court can implement bond conditions and orders to be adhered to throughout the life of the case. This office presides over trial cases and makes rulings based on evidence.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I owe everything in my life to God and my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I can accredit my success to my parents and my wonderful family. I was blessed to be raised by two people who gave me the road map to success by demonstrating hard work and faith in action on a daily basis. I have also been surrounded by an amazing and supportive group of friends who feel like family. My friends have challenged me and prayed for me on some of my most difficult days.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://katherinethomasfor184thjudge.com/
- Instagram: katthomasforjudge
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KATForJudgeDistrict184
- Twitter: KATforJudge
- Youtube: Katherine Thomas for Judge
Image Credits
Terry Thomas Photography
