(Note: I am running a series of Q&As for judicial candidates on the Republican side of the November ballot. There are a lot of judicial races on the ballot in Harris County this election, so this is intended to help introduce the candidates and their experiences to those who plan to vote. I am running these responses in the order that I receive them from the candidates. Charles Kuffner at Off the Kuff is running the same series for Democratic candidates.)

1. Who are you and what are you running for?

I am Justice Tracy Elizabeth Christopher. I am currently a Justice on the 14th Court of Appeals and I am running for election. I was appointed to this bench in December 2009. Prior to this position, I was a trial judge for 15 years on the 295th District Court. Before that, I practiced law for 13 years.

2. What kind of cases does this court hear?

This is an intermediate court of appeals. We handle the appeals from all of the trial courts in our ten county area, including civil, criminal and family law cases.

3. Why are you running for this particular bench?

I enjoy legal research and writing and feel that I can be of service to the State as an appellate judge.

4. What are your qualifications for this job?

I graduated with honors from the University of Texas Law School in 1981. I had a successful practice as a lawyer and was well regarded as a trial judge. I was named trial judge of the year by the Texas Association of Civil Trial and Appellate Specialists. I am a frequent speaker, teaching the law to lawyers and to other judges.

5. Why is this race important?

The court of appeals is the last stop for most cases in the judicial system. Unlike the Texas Supreme Court or the Court of Criminal Appeals that only hear selective appeals, we hear all appeals. It is important that your court of appeals knows the law and can decide the case based on the law.

6. Why should people vote for you in November?

I am the best qualified candidate in the race. I have a proven track record for excellence.

Website: JudgeTracyChristopher.com

Facebook: Justice Tracy Elizabeth Christopher