Vote Jennifer Zarate For Ellis County District Clerk
Why is Jennifer the right choice?
Here’s what she brings to the table and why she’s the MOST QUALIFIED candidate for District Clerk:
Education & Legal Experience
- Bachelor of Science, Texas Tech University
- American Bar Association-certified postgraduate paralegal credentials, 1st in class
- 30 plus years of legal experience in a major metropolitan area
- Extensive background in criminal and family law
- Specific substantive experience in child protective services, child support, ad litem, juvenile justice, mental health and DNA exoneration cases
Community Service & Leadership
- Board of Directors, Ellis Appraisal District
- Appraisal Review Board, past member
- Vice Chair, Ellis County Republican Party
- Precinct Chair, Precinct 1028
- Victory Committee Chair, Ellis County Republican Party
- Ellis County Republican Women, past membership chair more than doubling the membership
- Earned top political hours award from Texas Federation of Republican Women
- Personnel Committee, First Baptist Maypearl
- Lifetime Member, VFW Auxiliary
- Unite Ellis, Military Community
- Friends of Sims Library, Member
- Q Ministries Food Pantry, Volunteer
- Indian Trail Texas Master Naturalist, Member & Past Secretary
Jennifer's Story
Born and raised in Dallas, Jennifer spent four formative years in Lubbock while earning her degree from Texas Tech University. For nearly two decades she has made Ellis County her home; a place where deep roots, strong community spirit, and a lifelong commitment to service continue to shape her journey.
Jennifer is happily married to a twice deployed Navy Veteran, and a mom of one grown daughter. She shares her home with two rescue dogs, two rescue cats, and a lively flock of chickens. Proof that compassion, resolve, and commitment start right at home.
As our community continues to grow, so do the demands on our court system and more specifically the District Clerk’s office. With over 30 years of experience in one of the largest metropolitan judicial systems in the country, Jennifer brings the knowledge, leadership, and expertise Ellis County deserves to keep pace with that growth.
“I’m the proven leader Ellis County needs to modernize the District Clerk’s office through streamlining processes, embracing smart technology, and delivering efficient and understanding service that truly reflects our conservative values.”
What does the District Clerk do?
It's more than just paperwork. A Clerk's impact Is safeguarding justice.
Every file. Every record. Every jury summons.
They all matter in making sure the courts serve the people accurately and efficiently.
- Court Records Management - District clerks maintain and secure records for the courts. Including filings from criminal cases to family cases.
- Jury Coordination - They organize and mange the jury selection process, ensuring fair and efficient selection.
- Manage executions - Records all executions issued by the court and the returns on those executions.
- Process passports - Handles the processing of passport applications.
- Financial Responsibilities - Clerks collect fees, fines, child support payments, manage funds held in litigation, and disburse money.