In Fort Bend County, the Justice of the Peace court handles matters that reach directly into people’s lives. On eviction days, tenants and landlords file into the courtroom to determine whether someone keeps their home. Small claims dockets resolve financial disputes between neighbors, contractors, and small businesses. Mental health warrants often arrive under time pressure, requiring immediate, lawful decisions that affect personal safety. Each ruling carries direct consequences for individuals and families across the county.
For William Ferguson, that courtroom setting is familiar. He has spent more than 33 years in law enforcement serving Fort Bend County, responding to calls that required coordination between officers, hospitals, and families during moments of crisis. Currently serving as a reserve lieutenant, Ferguson is now seeking the position of Justice of the Peace for Fort Bend County Precinct 3.
“Serving more than 33 years in law enforcement taught me that justice is ultimately about people, not power,” Ferguson said in a recent interview with Katy Christian Magazine.
Over the course of his career, Ferguson regularly handled calls involving mental illness, domestic conflict, and urgent public safety concerns. In those situations, officers often arrive alongside medical professionals, with families waiting for direction and answers. Decisions must be made quickly and lawfully, with little margin for error. Ferguson says those experiences inform how he views the responsibility of the Justice of the Peace bench, particularly when mental health warrants come before the court.
High-stakes cases like these require a Justice of the Peace to assess facts, authorize lawful intervention, and act within a narrow window of time. Ferguson emphasizes that those decisions affect not only the individual named in the warrant, but also families, officers, and medical staff involved in the response.
“Compassion means seeing the person, not just the problem,” he said. “Accountability means respecting the law and the responsibilities that come with it.” He notes that these cases demand urgency paired with clear legal authority. In those moments, the Justice of the Peace is often responsible for explaining the legal process to families, officers, and medical staff in the room.
“Because I’ve walked alongside officers, hospital staff, and families in crisis, I understand the weight they carry,” Ferguson said.
In difficult moments, Ferguson says his faith has guided his specific responses.
“My faith in Jesus Christ shaped how I approached every situation—especially moments of crisis,” he said. “Scripture teaches us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly.” He says those principles shape how he treats people when they enter the legal system at vulnerable moments, particularly during mental health interventions where a person’s dignity and safety have to be prioritized.
Ferguson also connects those principles to how a Justice of the Peace manages the courtroom during emotionally charged proceedings. He often refers to “justice with integrity” and “peace through leadership” when describing conduct on the bench.
“Justice with integrity means doing what is right even when no one is watching,” he said. “Peace through leadership reflects the idea that wise, steady leadership brings order and calm.” He describes the Justice of the Peace as responsible for maintaining structure during proceedings where emotions can run high and outcomes carry lasting impact.
That responsibility also extends to eviction cases and small claims disputes, where court decisions often determine housing stability or financial recovery. Ferguson says attention to facts and procedure matters in those moments, especially when both parties believe they are right. His experience responding to disputes in the field, he said, shaped his understanding of how people experience authority and fairness when outcomes affect their daily lives.
His professional background extends beyond law enforcement. Ferguson spent years as a small business owner, managing employees, contracts, and operational decisions. He also served five years on city council, where he worked on municipal governance and public accountability.
“Law enforcement taught me discipline and discernment,” he said. “Business ownership taught me stewardship. City Council service taught me accountability to the public.”
Ferguson credits his family life and church involvement with reinforcing consistency and responsibility. He has served as a deacon and speaks about the influence of marriage and parenthood on his approach to service.
“My faith is the foundation of my life and leadership,” he said. “It shapes my respect for human dignity and my commitment to serve rather than be served.”
When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave, Ferguson pointed his response toward how people experience the court itself.
“I hope to leave behind a court known for fairness, humility, and trust,” he said. “A place where people felt respected—even in difficult circumstances.” He emphasizes a desire for county residents to leave the courtroom understanding the process and the decision that was made.
Ferguson has entered the race for Justice of the Peace, Fort Bend County Precinct 3, as voters prepare for the upcoming election cycle. Early voting is from Feb. 17–27, with Election Day set for March 3. Voters can find additional information about polling locations and voting hours at www.FortBendVotes.org.
