County Court at Law 3

Judge Juli A. Mathew is the Presiding Judge of County Court at Law 3, where she oversees a diverse caseload involving criminal, juvenile, civil, mental health, probate and guardianship, eminent domain cases and Justice of the Peace appeals. With a passion for promoting positive change, she is the pioneering force behind the county's first Juvenile Intervention and Mental Health (JIMHS), a specialty court, personally engaging with and supporting youth to foster their successful integration into society.

Judge Mathew's legal journey began at Penn State University and continued at Delaware Law School, where she earned her Juris Doctorate. A dedicated resident of Fort Bend for over two decades, Judge Mathew takes pride in her immigrant roots from Kerala, India. Fluent in both Malayalam and English, she holds the distinction of being the first Indian American woman elected to the bench in the United States and the first Asian American woman elected in Fort Bend County.

Her commitment to public service extends beyond the courtroom, as she actively participates in various community engagements. Notably, Judge Mathew is a member of the National Association of Women Judges (NAWJ), and is part of the organizing committee and a speaker for the Color of Justice Conference, which encourages girls and minorities to consider legal and judicial careers by bringing them together with judges and lawyers, and providing them with resources to pursue their aspirations.  Judge Mathew also chairs the US Department of Justice, Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG), and former Member of the Bail Bond Committee in Fort Bend County. She initiated the Chai & Chat series, fostering transparency in local government and providing a platform for the community to engage with elected officials and address county concerns. Kitchen to the Courthouse was also another initiative she started introducing young girls to female trail blazers in various industries that have shattered the glass ceiling. Judge Mathew has also served as the Administrative Judge of the County Courts during her tenure on the bench.

In 2023, Judge Mathew was invited to teach as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Houston Law Center.  Judge Mathew has taught 2L and 3L students Professional Strategic Writing. A sought-after speaker, Judge Mathew has delivered keynote addresses at notable conventions and gatherings, including the Juvenile Justice Conference, American Judges Association, Texas Democratic Women, and others. Her outstanding contributions have earned her prestigious accolades, such as the NAACP Community Service Award, Honoree at the National Association for Diversity Empowerment, FOMAA Woman of the Year, and Outstanding Woman in Law by the South Indian US Chamber of Commerce.

Before her election in 2018, Judge Mathew served as the Associate Municipal Judge in Arcola, Texas, and amassed 15 years of experience as a practicing attorney, handling diverse cases in Fort Bend and neighboring counties, including Harris, Montgomery, Galveston, and Brazoria.

Aside from her remarkable professional achievements, Judge Mathew cherishes her roles as a devoted wife and a loving mother to her three daughters. With a steadfast commitment to serving every Fort Bend resident, she upholds values of understanding, fairness, and justice.

Judge Juli A. Mathew stands as a highly respected figure, embodying excellence in her legal career and unwavering dedication to public service. Her presence on the bench reflects her commitment to justice and making a positive impact in the lives of those she serves in Fort Bend County.