Some individuals we meet in our lives inspire with true enthusiasm, motivate with idealism and challenge adversity with both heart and spirit. Recently, I met such a champion who personifies the essence of youth guided by wisdom. My interview with newly–elected Judge Laura Salinas provoked the important thought that in life, when we find ourselves at a crossroads, the decisions we make truly define the essence of who we are.
DEFINING MOMENTS At only 35–years–old, Salinas is presently the youngest sitting judge in Bexar County. The daughter of Mexican–born parents and the eldest of four siblings, Salinas grew up speaking predominantly Spanish in her household. Money was scarce for the members of her family, but they leaned on one another for support and love.
“I come from a very close–knit family,” she said.
Her mother, Rosa Alonso, “always instilled in me that my education was the key to my success and was something that no one could ever take away from me.”
After graduating Magna Cum Laude from Lee High School and Cum Laude from Incarnate Word College, Salinas received her BBA in International Business. Both the legal and medical professions attracted her, but ultimately, she decided to pursue law. Upon graduating from Southern Methodist University Law School in Dallas, she began practicing civil litigation and went on her own, focusing on family and criminal law in early 1999.
“I especially enjoyed pro bono and family law cases,” she said. “My priority wasn’t so much on money; I always felt satisfied helping less fortunate individuals in need.”
A RUN FOR IT Salinas became the judge of County Court at Law No. 9 after defeating incumbent Oscar Kazen in the Democratic Primary Election by only seven votes. She did so despite being considered the underdog and being told she had neither the name nor the money to win.
“Before pursuing this position, I honestly never had an interest in politics,” she said, “but many people encouraged me to run. It takes a lot of commitment to go down that road.”
For this position, Salinas thought deeply about what she had to offer and what the position would require.
“For me, a judge should be fair and neutral, respectful of those who appear before you,” she said. “Every person deserves their day in court.”
She also emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself. She conveys a true appreciation for her role and the people with whom she works.
“I feel that prosecutors and defense attorneys know how I work and what my goals are – a fair, conscientious court,” she said.
While the transition proved smooth, Salinas insists people must undergo a lot of self–analysis before taking on this kind of position because “your title changes, but you don’t change who you are.”
Her campaign was entirely a grassroots effort because “I didn’t have any money, but I was born and reared in San Antonio and have made many contacts and maintained them through the years. I prepared myself mentally for the challenges ahead. I was ready for whatever the outcome. I’m very strong in my faith and have always had the unwavering support of my family.”
After deciding to campaign for her place in the court, Salinas decided she was going to do it her way and “wasn’t going to mudsling. At the end of the day, I needed to be at peace with myself and my actions.”
In her 10th year as an attorney and in the beginning of her position as judge, Salinas spends her time in a misdemeanor criminal court, handling mostly possession of marijuana, theft and DWI cases.
“I want to do my part to rehabilitate people at this level,” she said. “I don’t want to see defendants –– especially young ones –– graduate to more serious crimes.”
Is it unusual to see a young, thirtysomething woman dominating the courtroom in today’s society? “Not at all,” said Salinas. “Women are catching up in this field even though we are still outnumbered by men.”
In fact, with more women in court, the mentality of yesterday is quickly fading.
“I don’t feel I have to prove myself because I’m a woman,” said Salinas. “I establish my reputation and prove my worth with hard work and integrity. I believe that if you do that, then there are no limitations.”
TAKING IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL From her professional platform, Salinas shows her dedication to the community by working with young children. Having been involved in the Courts in Schools program as a defense attorney, Salinas plans to continue her commitment to the program as a judge by mentoring and sharing her experiences in order to inspire the youth of San Antonio.
“I had teachers and counselors who guided and inspired me,” she said. “I feel it’s my responsibility to do the same – especially with kids with financial challenges. I want these children to know that with desire and commitment, anything is possible.”
Still early in her judgeship, Salinas looks forward to a challenging, yet rewarding four–year term of office. Through everything she has experienced in life, perhaps the greatest opportunities have appeared by her own enthusiasm to pursue them. She is a shining example of an individual who does not wait for someone to open doors for her, but rather takes the initiative to open doors for herself.
“I give all my thanks to my parents,” she said. “They never discouraged my growth. I never felt limitations.”
With an upcoming wedding, a rewarding career and endless opportunities for the future, Salinas has set the stage for her success. While she has encountered many significant crossroads in life, the decisions she has made have been based on truth and integrity.
“I set my mind to my goals,” she said. “I planned how to achieve them, I sacrificed and I worked hard. Now, I’m blessed and overjoyed to be where I am today.”
