Republican Patricia Burns is seeking to retain her position as judge of Tarrant County Probate Court No. 1 in the Nov. 3, 2026 general election. She is the only candidate listed for the office on the state’s certified ballot.
Experience and education
According to her campaign biography, county commissioners appointed Burns in 2025 after she served as associate judge of Probate Court No. 2 in 2024. Her legal practice focused on probate, estates, guardianship and mental health matters.
Her biography lists an undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University and a law degree from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. She established her own practice before joining Decker Jones P.C., where she became a shareholder in 2010.
The office and judicial approach
The county’s court website identifies Burns as the presiding judge. The court handles wills, estate administration, guardianships, trust matters and involuntary mental health commitments.
Burns says on her campaign website that legal principles should guide decisions rather than personal or political influence. She emphasizes fair treatment, transparency and access to justice.
Responses are based on public data and answers to a Surround Sound Media questionnaire if they were provided.
