Why I'm Running
I am seeking election to Harris County Probate Court No. 4 because I am deeply committed to fairness, integrity, and equal access to justice. With nearly two decades of legal experience, I bring a broad and balanced perspective to the bench. My career includes service as a felony prosecutor, extensive civil trial practice, and appellate experience, with cases handled in both state and federal courts across the country.
I have represented individuals, families, and businesses in complex matters and have also served the courts in trusted roles such as mediator, guardian ad litem, and court-appointed counsel. Through this work, I have seen firsthand the profound impact probate courts have on families, vulnerable individuals, and estates.
Harris County Probate Court No. 4 currently faces a significant case backlog that affects families, wards, and fiduciaries who need timely resolution. If elected, I will bring a disciplined, hands-on approach to docket management, with a focus on efficiency, clear scheduling, and prompt rulings, while never sacrificing fairness or due process.
A probate judge must be knowledgeable, patient, and decisive, and must treat every person who appears before the court with dignity and respect. My experience, work ethic, and commitment to impartial justice prepare me to serve the people of Harris County with competence, fairness, and compassion.
JUDICIAL PRIORITIES
- Reducing the Probate Court Backlog
- Judicial Accountability Through Term Limits
- Upholding Mandatory Judicial Retirement
Meet Lema
My name is Lema May Mousilli and I am a committed Democrat running for Judge of Harris County Probate Court No. 4. I bring nearly two decades of experience as a trial attorney practicing nationwide, along with my work as an Adjunct Professor and a lifelong commitment to civil rights advocacy. Above all, I am a proud single mother to a bright and spirited 14-year-old who brings immeasurable joy and purpose to my life.
Education
- The University of Houston Law Center, Doctor of Jurisprudence, May 2006
- Texas Tech University, Executive Masters of Business Administration, May 2014, Magna Cum Laude
- The University of Houston, The Honors College, Bachelor of Arts in English & Political Science, May 2003, Cum Laude
Awards
- Super Lawyer, 2023 - 2025
- Top 40 under 40, The National Trial Lawyers, 2018 & 2019
- Top 40 under 40, Arab American Foundation 2020
- University of Houston, Best Writer of The Year
Career
My professional journey as an attorney spans 19 years, during which I’ve been unwavering in my commitment to securing justice for those who have been wronged. I bring a unique and extensive skill set, having represented individuals and small businesses across a spectrum of legal areas, including plaintiff’s work and defense at both state and federal levels across the United States. One of my key strengths lies in successfully representing clients against major corporations, facing off against some of the largest law firms in the country. This track record of achievement showcases my ability to navigate complex legal landscapes and emerge with positive outcomes for my clients. My multifaceted experience allows me to approach cases holistically, providing a nuanced and comprehensive perspective that goes beyond the confines of a single legal domain.
I have had the privilege of serving as a trial and appellate attorney with a diverse practice, gaining invaluable insights into various areas of law. For the last five years, my law practice has been dedicated to intellectual property litigation and commercial litigation, in state and federal court, at both trial and appellate levels.
My prior experience includes roles in criminal prosecution and defense, counter-terrorism litigation, family law, immigration law, probate law, civil rights litigation, and personal injury, both as a plaintiff’s attorney and defense counsel. Additionally, I have handled cases involving health law, real estate, mass torts, and pharmaceutical and medical device litigation.
State Bar of Texas License
US Federal Claims License
Southern District Of TX License
Top 40 Under 40 Trial Lawyer
Language Proficiency
I possess native, professional proficiency in Arabic, with the ability to speak, read, and write across multiple dialects. This proficiency allows me to engage effectively with Arabic speakers from diverse countries across Asia and Africa. Furthermore, I have a working knowledge of Spanish, broadening my ability to communicate and understand the needs of a diverse community.
Teaching Experience
Over the past several years, I have served as an Adjunct Professor, teaching Business Law and Constitutional Law to university students. This role reflects my commitment to legal education and the development of future professionals. It also demonstrates my ability to convey complex legal concepts in a clear and accessible manner.
About the Position
Harris County Probate Court No. 4 presides over matters involving wills, estates, guardianships, trust administration, mental health proceedings, and contested probate disputes. With nearly two decades of civil trial experience and a nationwide practice, including handling breach of fiduciary duty cases at both the trial and appellate levels, I am prepared to oversee complex probate litigation and protect the interests of families and vulnerable individuals across Harris County.
Judicial Values
Respect for All
You will be treated with respect in my courtroom.
Justice for All
You will not be discriminated against in my presence.
Equal Access
You will have equal access to justice no matter what.