Kevin “Buck” Sralla Co-Writes Opinion Piece on Bexar County Court

On Behalf of Kevin E. Sralla | September 24, 2024 | Press Releases

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — On September 4, 2024, Kevin “Buck” Sralla, Family Law Attorney,  Founder of Sralla Family Law, PLLC, and Chairman of the Family Law Section of the San Antonio Bar Association, co-authored an opinion piece in the San Antonio Express-News about a proposed change to the court system in Bexar County. Sralla’s co-authors included Javier Herrera, President of the San Antonio Trial Lawyers Association; David Rodriguez, a family law attorney; and Michael Ireland, past chairman of the Family Law Section of the San Antonio Bar Association.

In the article, the authors touted the efficiency and effectiveness of Bexar County’s district civil courts and expressed their concerns about the potential risks associated with the proposed structural changes. They explained that Bexar County’s district civil courts have the ability to schedule hearings with just three days’ notice — a remarkable feat compared to other Texas counties where litigants face weeks or even months of delay.

Judge Christine Hortick’s proposal to allow judges to set their own dockets could potentially jeopardize the court structure. The authors argue that such changes could lead to longer waits and increased backlogs, undermining a system that currently processes more than 30,000 cases annually with fewer resources than required.

Bexar County’s unique structure features a collaborative approach where if one judge is unavailable, 13 others can easily step in to maintain judicial efficiency. The result is a justice system where cases filed as recently as 2023 are already resolved, starkly contrasting to other regions where cases from 2018 or 2020 are still pending trial.

Because of this record of success, Sralla, Herrera, Rodriguez, and Ireland advocated for the preservation and enhancement of the current Bexar County court structure, which has served the community for more than 60 years.

The authors also note that, despite its challenges, Bexar County’s judiciary has demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement. A committee formed in 2024 — including representatives from various legal sectors — is dedicated to enhancing the court system within existing budgetary and logistical constraints, with the goal of maintaining an effective and equitable system for all community members.

The authors, all respected figures in the legal community, highlighted the importance of quick access to justice, particularly for victims and litigants in urgent need of legal intervention, noting the judiciary’s discretion in managing sensitive cases and balancing efficiency with the necessity for careful consideration.

Sralla and his co-authors affirmed the judiciary’s dedication to serving the community with integrity and diligence and advocated for maintaining the current presiding court system, which allows for rapid case resolution and supports the community’s legal needs.

For more information, please visit https://familylawsanantonio.com/.

About Sralla Family Law, PLLC

Strength Of A Giant, Heart Of A Neighbor – Your San Antonio Law Allies

Welcome to Sralla Family Law PLLC, where we blend the might of large firm services with the warmth and care you’d expect from a trusted neighbor. Since opening our doors in San Antonio in 2006, we have dedicated ourselves to standing by your side, navigating the complexities of the law together.

Our office feels like a second home, a place where you’re not just another case file – you’re family. We pride ourselves on delivering personalized attention, ensuring each client receives the support and respect they deserve.

The Heart Of Our Practice: Personalized Care

Our founding attorney, Kevin “Buck” Sralla, embodies the spirit of the firm. He cares deeply about the outcomes and the people he serves. Buck understands that behind every case is a story, a life impacted by the legal challenges at hand. That’s why he and his staff take the time to get to know you and fully grasp every facet of your situation. This connection enables us to advocate for you effectively, with the kind of passion and dedication that can only come from truly understanding your needs and goals.