Friends,

The wheels of justice continue to turn in the 248th District Court! We have just passed the first 100 days since I was appointed to the bench by Governor Perry. Take a look at all that has been going on this summer!

Cases and Trials

Currently, there are almost 600 cases pending in the 248th. We are proud to report that the 248th will be one of six courts participating in a pilot Docket Management Program. Created to minimize the number of resets per case, the innovative program is designed to maximize the use of courtroom time. The prosecutors, defense bar, and court staff are excited to implement the program and enjoy great results. Stay tuned!

Courtroom Stories

Some of the greatest privileges of being a judge are not necessarily events that take place in the courtroom. Recently, I was so honored to participate in two very special ceremonies.

First, it was a pleasure to swear in a new lawyer to the Texas Bar. Nina Fain was admitted to the bar and took the oath before family and friends in the 248th. We told a few lawyer jokes, just to make sure she really knew what she was getting into, before welcoming her to the practice of law in Texas. We wish her much success in the future.

Second, what an honor it was to perform the wedding ceremony for Kenneth and Dana Marler! They called to explain that Kenneth was home in Houston, having returned from his service in the Marines in Afghanistan. They wanted to return to base as a married couple. A beautiful ceremony took place within weeks! It was truly a privilege to wish the young couple well, and to thank both of them for Kenneth’s service to our country.

Community Impact

Many thanks to Gary Noble of Central Bank for inviting me to speak at the Rotary Club – Houston on June 13. The prestigious club meets weekly at the City Club, and familiar faces in the audience included Michael Hajtman and Stephen Sheldon of the Herzstein Foundation, and Dr. Vern Swisher of Career and Recovery Resources.

It was equally enjoyable to speak to the River Oaks Business Women’s Exchange Club on July 12. These high powered women are engaged in having an impact in the community and making a difference. Their interest in the safety of our county and justice in our courts was especially appreciated!

Finally, it was a great privilege to be invited to speak at the Pachyderm meeting at Tony’s on August 13. Thank you to the many club members for your focus on crime, crime prevention, and justice in our Harris County courts!

In Case You Missed It!

Last week, it was a great honor to participate in Sheriff Adrian Garcia’s first ever Sheriff-of-the-Day program! This new initiative was created by Sheriff Garcia as part of his Explorer program for young leaders who are interested in law enforcement. Congratulations to honorary Sheriff of the Day Haley Harvey, and many thanks to Sheriff Garcia for the opportunity to swear her in!

Thank you for your interest in all that is happening in our criminal justice system! Keep in touch, and please come by the 248th for a visit if you find yourself in the courthouse at jury duty. Thank you, and enjoy the last few weeks of summer!

Best regards,

Judge Katherine Cabaniss

248th District Court
281-536-1851

Posted by Katherine Cabaniss on Thursday, August 22nd, 2013 @ 11:57AM
Categories: Blog Posts