Mike Smith, associate with the Haynes Law Firm in Brownwood, will assume the 35th District Court. Courtesy photo.

Without an opponent in the Republican Primary and the November general election, Brownwood attorney Mike Smith has won election to the 35th District Court.

Smith, who is an associate at the Haynes Law Firm in Brownwood, will assume the bench in 2021 to replace current 35th District Judge Steve Ellis, who didn't seek reelection. The court serves Brown and Mills counties.

It's election season, and Texas Lawyer is publishing Q&As with candidates for district court and appellate court benches in the Lone Star State. Smith completed Texas Lawyer's judicial questionnaire. Here are his answers, edited for length and news style, so you can meet the judge.

What is a brief biography of work experience, educational qualifications and career honors that you want voters to know about?

I earned my J.D. in 2009 from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, where I was editor in chief of the Denver University Law Review. I have been in private practice in Brownwood, Texas, since 2010.

Why do you want this position?

Respect for the judiciary and a desire to be part of it. I spent all my summers in law school working for various courts, including state and federal. The current judge of the 35th Judicial District, Steve Ellis, is retiring after 24 years on the bench. This opened up an opportunity for me and my family and we decided to pursue it. I grew up in Brownwood and I really enjoy the small-town culture and lifestyle and it is a great place to raise children. This is an opportunity to be a public servant and do something fulfilling and meaningful in my hometown.

In your view, what is the proper role that a judge should play in the courtroom?

To provide a forum for the efficient administration of justice for all attorneys and parties before the court. To be a resource for the public on appropriate matters involving the judiciary and court administration.

How would you go about managing this court's docket efficiently and effectively?

The current 35th District Judge, Steve Ellis, and his court coordinators have done an excellent job over the years of developing systems for court management. My plan is to learn that system and to make as few changes as possible. Over time I may want to make minor adjustments that fit me better, but I am going into a very efficient and organized court and that will be a significant benefit for me as a new district judge.