News Flash

May 15, 2017 Waxahachie, Texas – Today, the Ellis County Commissioners Court appointed Joyce W. Lindauer, J.D., as the new Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, to fill the vacancy created by Judge Bill Woody’s retirement.

Judge Woody is a well-known official in Ellis County. He was elected to 4 terms as Justice of the Peace, and served from January 1, 2003 until March 31, 2017. He also served as Constable, Pct.1 for 12 years before becoming a Judge.

The County Commissioners interviewed several candidates to fill the position. In today’s Special Session, Judge Bush announced Lindauer as the new Justice of the Peace.

“Today the Commissioners Court voted to appoint Joyce Lindauer as Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, to fill the vacancy of retired Judge Bill Woody. Ms. Lindauer has been an attorney since 1984, with law practices in both Dallas and Ennis. We think the wealth of experience Ms. Lindauer offers, combined with her ongoing deep commitment to the area which she will serve, makes her an outstanding choice for the position. The Commissioners Court appreciates all the qualified applicants who offered their service to the community,” said Judge Bush.

The Justice of the Peace is the legal jurisdiction closest to the citizens of the Precinct. As presiding Judge of Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, some of the duties will include:

• Hearing traffic and other Class C misdemeanor cases punishable by fine only;
• Hearing civil cases with up to $10,000 in controversy;
• Hearing landlord and tenant disputes;
• Hearing truancy cases;
• Performing magistrate duties;
• Conducting inquests;

Lindauer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Texas Tech University, a Masters in Education from North Texas University, and a J.D degree from Southern Methodist University. Lindauer also holds two additional Masters degrees from SMU, in Mediation and Dispute Resolution.

She has also served as an Executive Board Member of the Greater Ennis Development Alliance and was also an Adjunct Professor - Texas Wesleyan School of Law (Research and Writing and Bankruptcy Law).

Lindauer will serve the remainder of Judge Woody’s unexpired term, through December 31, 2018.