Out Smart Magazine, Fran Watson: Experienced Attorney & LGBTQ Advocate Running for Judge

Harris County TX, Probate Court No. 5

Houston Style Magazine, Fran Watson Makes History as First Black Probate Judge in Harris County

Fran earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Houston-Downtown and a law degree from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. She lives in Southwest Houston with her wife.

Fran worked as a staff attorney for the Honorable Judge of Harris County Probate Court Two prior to her appointment. She previously worked as an associate municipal court judge and private practice attorney.

Fransheneka "Fran" Watson is a probate court judge in Harris County. She was appointed in June 2024.

As a probate court judge, administers the wills and estates of deceased persons, appoints guardians to incapacitated adults and minors, commits individuals for involuntary treatment of addiction to drugs or alcohol and mental illness, issues marriage licenses, and oversees certain cases dealing with criminal conduct.

As municipal judge, oversaw "arraignments, bench trials, property seizure hearings, inability to pay hearings, and Magistrate warnings."

As a private practice attorney, has represented families on cases like estate planning, probate, and guardianship, and individuals and small business owners on matters like breach of contract and consumer law disputes.

- As a probate court judge, administers the wills and estates of deceased persons, appoints guardians to incapacitated adults and minors, commits individuals for involuntary treatment of addiction to drugs or alcohol and mental illness, issues marriage licenses, and oversees certain cases dealing with criminal conduct.
- As municipal judge, oversaw "arraignments, bench trials, property seizure hearings, inability to pay hearings, and Magistrate warnings."
- As a private practice attorney, has represented families on cases like estate planning, probate, and guardianship, and individuals and small business owners on matters like breach of contract and consumer law disputes.

Legal Experience

As of September 7, 2024, Fransheneka "Fran" Watson’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Judicial Administration

Judicial Philosophy

Ethics & Conduct

Candidate website

Recognized for individual contributions to the Houston Bar Association and Houston Volunteer Lawyers.

Received a Public Citizen of the Year Award.

- Recognized for individual contributions to the Houston Bar Association and Houston Volunteer Lawyers.
- Received a Public Citizen of the Year Award.

Community Involvement

Twitter

LinkedIn

Fransheneka "Fran" Watson

As of September 12, 2024, Fransheneka "Fran" Watson’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Fransheneka "Fran" Watson has served in leadership roles at the local, state, and national level in various organizations and committees.

Believes experience is crucial for probate court judges.

Believes that "every dollar given builds a campaign infrastructure that allows this campaign to touch voters across the county."

Believes they are "uniquely qualified and ready" to serve as Presiding Judge of Harris County Probate Court 5.

Believes her background and experience make her "uniquely qualified and ready to serve the people as the Presiding Judge of Harris County Probate Court 5."

Supports adding internet protection for children and encourages parents to monitor their online activity.

The campaign's treasurer, Adrian Ozuna, subscribes to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices.

Served in leadership roles at local, state, and national organizations and committees advocating for universal access to dignity and fair treatment.

- Texas county probate judges handle all cases in probate, including estate administration, wills, guardianships, and incapacitation cases.
- There are a total of 24 probate judges across 12 counties within the state.
- They are paid an annual salary between $158,000 and $193,400.