Meet Melissa Lorber

What is your background and campaign platform?

I am running for the Third Court of Appeals because I have experience and expertise that is needed on the Court. For 22 years, I have represented clients in hundreds of appeals; regularly presented oral arguments in the Texas Courts of Appeals, Texas Supreme Court, and Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals; and earned Board Certification as a specialist in Civil Appellate Law. I am also a founding partner of a women-majority law firm.

What are some ways you have helped determine your own personal biases in the past?

I have participated in numerous Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging training programs – as part of my continuing legal education, as volunteer training for CASA of Travis County, and for the Grants Leadership Team for Impact Austin.

What inspired you to pursue a path of studying law?

As a college student working for the student newspaper, I had the opportunity to meet and interview Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. I was inspired by her trailblazing career to not only go to law school, but also to become an appellate attorney. I was later inspired to try to become an appellate court justice by Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, who was an amazing legal scholar, advocate, and jurist and who achieved this professional success as a working mother.

What legacy would you like to leave from serving on this court?

I would like to be part of restoring the public’s faith in our state’s and our country’s legal systems. I believe this can be done by electing highly qualified appellate court justices, who follow legal precedent, and write well-reasoned legal opinions.

What Democratic values have you or will you apply to your work once elected?

I believe that every Central Texas litigant has the right to be treated with respect and civility throughout the legal process and to have the law applied fairly, equitably, compassionately, and consistently in their dispute. I also believe in fundamental fairness, equality, justice, and human rights for all—regardless of race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation.

If elected, would you support the Hays County Democratic Party by your presence at events and, if possible, financially? If not, please explain why.

Yes!

Will you and your campaign participate in the Hays County Democratic Party Coordinated Campaign effort in 2024?

Yes!