John Gauntt Jr.
County Court at Law No. 3
Biography
John Gauntt Jr. is the Republican nominee for Bell County Court at Law No. 3. A fourth-generation Bell County attorney with 24 years of experience as a prosecutor, he is running unopposed in the November 2026 general election to succeed retiring incumbent Judge Rebecca DePew.
Gauntt comes from a family with deep roots in Bell County law. His father, John T. Gauntt Sr., served as judge of the 27th Judicial District Court until his retirement in December 2024. His family’s multigenerational presence in the Bell County legal community gives him unparalleled insight into the local courts and legal traditions.
For 24 years, Gauntt served as a prosecutor, handling thousands of cases in Bell County courts. His extensive trial experience covers the full spectrum of criminal cases that come through county court, including DWIs, assaults, thefts, drug offenses, and family violence cases. This experience provides him with an intimate understanding of the court’s docket and the procedural requirements of criminal justice.
As County Court at Law No. 3 judge, Gauntt will preside over misdemeanor criminal cases, civil matters up to $250,000, probate matters, and appeals from justice courts. His prosecutorial background has given him a reputation for firm but fair handling of cases.
Gauntt’s campaign emphasizes his courtroom experience, local roots, and commitment to timely justice. He has been endorsed by local law enforcement and members of the Bell County legal community.
Credentials & Education
Education
- J.D., accredited law school
Bar Admissions
- State Bar of Texas (24+ years)
Experience
- 24 years as a prosecutor
- Fourth-generation Bell County attorney
Professional Memberships
- Bell County Bar Association
- State Bar of Texas
Professional History
Bell County District Attorney’s Office — Prosecutor (24 years) Served as a prosecutor handling thousands of criminal cases in Bell County courts. Gained extensive trial experience covering DWI, assault, theft, drug offenses, and family violence cases.
Bell County Court at Law No. 3 — Judge-Elect (January 2027 – Present) Republican nominee, unopposed in November 2026 general election. Will succeed retiring Judge Rebecca DePew.
Record
Court case records and judicial statistics will be added here upon Judge-Elect Gauntt’s assumption of the bench.
John Gauntt Jr. is a fourth-generation Bell County attorney and the Republican nominee for Bell County Court at Law No. 3. He has served as a prosecutor for 24 years. He is the son of former 27th District Court Judge John T. Gauntt Sr. He is unopposed in the November 2026 general election.