JUDGE JUANITA JACKSON — DEMOCRAT is a proud product of Houston Public Schools and the Hiram Clarke / South Post Oak community. A graduate of James Madison High School, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Alabama and her law degree from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law.

She began her legal career as an Assistant Attorney General, where she handled consumer protection cases, before opening her own successful private law practice. Driven by a passion for justice and public service, she later joined the Harris County Public Defender’s Office as a Felony Trial Attorney, representing individuals in some of the county’s most serious criminal cases.

Over her 25+ year legal career, Judge Jackson has handled more than 3,500 criminal cases, giving her deep insight into both the law and the real-life challenges faced by defendants, victims, and families.

In 2022, she was elected Judge of Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 10. Since taking the bench, she has worked diligently to clear a significant case backlog, improve court efficiency, and foster an atmosphere of respect and professionalism in her courtroom. She has also increased public access by livestreaming court proceedings daily, reinforcing her commitment to transparency and accountability.

Judge Jackson is widely known for her calm demeanor, strong legal knowledge, and compassionate approach — particularly when working with young defendants, where she emphasizes accountability alongside opportunities for positive change.
Outside the courtroom, Judge Jackson is also known as the creator, producer, and cast member of WEtv’s Sisters in Law, a reality series that followed six accomplished Black women attorneys in Houston and highlighted the realities of women in the legal profession.

Judge Juanita Jackson continues to serve Harris County with integrity, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to justice — one case at a time.