Candidate Q&A – Amanda Calvert – District Clerk

Amanda Calvert

How can voters contact you?

• Campaign Email: [email protected]
• Campaign Website: AC4DC.vote
• Facebook: Amanda K. Calvert for Hays County District Clerk
• Phone: 830-481-4989

 

In a few sentences, tell us about your background. Include in your answer information about your education, employment, and leadership experience relevant to this position.

I have been employed at the Hays County District Attorney’s Office for over 11 years. I am currently the Administrative Felony Lead Supervisor and oversee all the administrative work for felony cases in that office. Prior to that I received my bachelor’s in political science from Texas State University, then went on to continue my education at their graduate program for Legal Studies where I achieved my Paralegal Certificate as well as my Mediation Certificate. I have over 17 years of leadership experience in my professional life, and 10 of those years have been in the Hays County Criminal Justice System.

 

For the next questions, please limit your responses to 100 words each

Please describe how your Hays County experience will serve the residents in this position

In my current position I work in tandem with the District Clerk’s Office daily, so I am aware of many of the job responsibilities they have and my position closely mirrors the duties of the District Clerk’s Office. I have a deep understanding of the criminal justice system of Hays County and know how all the departments need to work together to get justice delivered timely and accurately. I have developed working relationships with county departments, the jail, probation, pretrial services, local attorneys, judges and know how to create cooperative communication with these entities.

 

The previous District Clerk was unable to effectively handle this job. What will you do differently to ensure your success as District Clerk?

I believe my education and experience with the county, as well as my leadership experience will be to a significant advantage taking on this role. I cannot imagine attempting to effectively take on this job without such experience. In addition,  I will use my resources to further my knowledge. I have been compiling a list of other District Clerks in the surrounding areas who have agreed to assist me in learning more in-depth knowledge about the position. I have also been diligently studying the requirements of the job, and ascertaining the needs and shortcomings of the office.

 

What will you do to create and maintain good working relationships with other Hays County officials?

I believe in the past eleven years with the county, I have established exceptional working relationships with County Officials. They have been able to see first-hand the kind of worker I am. I am reliable, responsive, knowledgeable, and they trust my experience. Departments all over the county know they can reach out to me and I will do what I can to be of assistance and answer their questions. I want to reinforce that reputation not only with county officials but to all people who will need services from the District Clerk.

 

Briefly describe the major functions of the District Clerk and how you will work to restore the public’s faith that they are being conducted efficiently and effectively?

The District Clerk’s Office is the clerk and custodian of records for the District Courts. They are responsible for maintaining the jury wheel, summons, selections records and qualifications of jurors. They handle felony, juvenile, as well as certain civil case records. I will ensure proper and thorough training for our staff so that they have the tools to do their job correctly. I know the staff of the District Clerk’s office wants an opportunity to prove that they are capable of excellence and I want to help get them there with the right leadership, knowledge, experience, and support.