El Pasoans deserve a
JP1 they can trust

Why Access to Justice Matters

When people don't trust the courts, they avoid them even when they need them. Disputes go unresolved, rights go unenforced, and problems escalate. A trustworthy JP court means:

• Families can address truancy issues with support rather than fear

• Small businesses can collect legitimate debts

• Tenants can hold landlords accountable for repairs and vice versa

• Consumers can pursue lawful claims

• Everyone can resolve disputes fairly without resorting to informal or potentially harmful alternatives

Trust Is Fragile Right Now

Some people are more scared right now of courts and government in general than they ever have been, especially in our community.

Every El Pasoan needs access to these courts to resolve their legal issues. A justice of the peace is a local court that handles everyday matters: citations, landlord-tenant disputes, small claims, and truancy. Whenever people avoid the court because of the current climate or because they think the system can't help them, we can and should do better.

Building Trust Through Action

Trust is earned through consistent, transparent, and fair action. Here's how JP1 can build and maintain that trust:

Extended Hours: Early and late court hours so working people can attend without losing a day's pay

Accessible Information: Court materials, forms, and procedures available in English and Spanish

Transparent Processes: Clear explanation of rights, procedures, and options at every stage

Dignity and Respect: Every person treated with dignity regardless of their situation

Community Presence: Regular engagement with community organizations and listening to concerns

Trusted Environment: Assurance that JP1 is a trustworthy place to resolve disputes

The People's Court

JP courts are the people's court more than any other level of the Texas judiciary. They're the most accessible, the closest to communities, and for many El Pasoans, the only court they'll ever encounter. That means JP1 owes the people of El Paso true access to the justice system.

SEE HOW BUSINESSES & INDIVIDUALS DEPEND ON JP1 →