Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about the campaign, the Justice of the Peace role, and how to get involved.
About the Justice of the Peace Position
A Justice of the Peace (JP) is an elected judicial officer who serves the local community in several important ways:
- Small Claims Court: Presides over civil cases involving disputes up to $20,000
- Traffic & Criminal Cases: Handles Class C misdemeanors, including traffic violations
- Magistrate Duties: Issues arrest warrants, search warrants, and sets bail
- Eviction Cases: Hears landlord-tenant disputes and eviction proceedings
- Death Inquests: Conducts inquests into deaths occurring without a physician present
- Weddings: Performs marriage ceremonies
In Texas, the requirements to serve as Justice of the Peace include:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of the precinct for at least 6 months
- Not have been convicted of a felony
While a law degree is not required, JPs must complete state-mandated training within a year of taking office and ongoing education throughout their term.
In Texas, a Justice of the Peace serves a 4-year term. Elections are held during presidential election years. The winner of the 2026 Republican primary will be on the November 2026 general election ballot.
About Shane Hindman
Shane believes every person who walks into the courtroom deserves to be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. With over 30 years of experience as a pastor and business leader, Shane has spent his life serving others and helping people through difficult situations. He wants to bring that same commitment to integrity and service to the Justice of the Peace office.
Shane brings decades of relevant experience:
- 30+ Years as a Pastor: Extensive experience counseling, mediating disputes, and making fair decisions that affect people's lives
- Business Leadership: Managing operations, teams, and making responsible decisions
- Community Service: Deep ties to San Jacinto County and a proven track record of helping neighbors in need
- Integrity & Character: A lifetime of demonstrating the honesty and ethical standards essential for a judicial role
Shane's top priorities include:
- Fair & Accessible Courts: Ensuring every resident has equal access to justice
- Community Safety: Working with law enforcement to serve justice while protecting rights
- Transparency: Conducting court business openly and being accountable to voters
- Respect for All: Treating every person with dignity, regardless of circumstances
Voting & Campaign Information
Republican Primary Election: March 3, 2026
Early Voting: February 17-27, 2026
Early Voting Location: 51 E. Pine Ave, Coldspring, TX
To vote in Texas, you must register at least 30 days before the election. You can register:
- Online at VoteTexas.gov
- At the San Jacinto County Clerk's office
- By mail using a voter registration form
You can check your registration status at VoteTexas.gov.
In Texas, you may vote by mail if you:
- Will be 65 years or older on Election Day
- Are disabled
- Will be out of the county during early voting and on Election Day
- Are confined in jail but otherwise eligible to vote
Visit VoteTexas.gov for more information on voting by mail.
There are many ways to help:
- Donate to support campaign activities
- Volunteer your time for canvassing, phone banking, or event support
- Request a yard sign to show your support
- Follow us on social media and share our posts
- Tell your friends and neighbors about Shane
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out to us directly and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.