Denise M. Fortenberry

- District judges manage Texas district courts, which are trial courts with general jurisdiction, including civil and criminal claims, and have exclusive authority over felony cases. They also share jurisdiction with Texas county courts.
- Texas has over 470 district courts, each presided over by a single judge. Some courts cover multiple counties, while others are assigned to single counties based on population size.
- District judges are elected through partisan elections for four-year terms. Candidates must be between 25 and 75 years old, have lived in the district for at least two years, and be licensed lawyers with a minimum of four years' experience.
- The annual salary for district judges ranges from $140,000 to $186,000, depending on years of service.

Presides over a trial court with general jurisdiction. 

Texas

2024 Texas General Election

Criminal Justice

Legal Experience

Judicial Administration

Judicial Philosophy

Ethics & Conduct

Community Involvement

District Judge