County Judge Overview

The county judge is the most visible official in county government. Often thought of as the county’s chief executive officer, a county judge has broad judicial and administrative powers, including serving as the presiding officer of the county’s policy-making body, the commissioners court. Referred to as “chief justice” by early Texas constitutions, the current office of county judge was established by the Texas Constitution of 1876.

The county judge presides at meetings of the Commissioners' Court and is responsible for filing and posting the agenda.  The county judge is also head of civil defense, disaster relief and County welfare. 

Other duties include:

• Constitutional Court hearings for guardianship, probate, juvenile cases, and mentally ill for admittance for care
• Hearing for liquor license applications
• Calling elections, posting election notices, and receiving and canvassing election returns
• Performing wedding ceremonies

County Judge Darrell Cockerham

Darrell Cockerham holds a Bachelor’s degree from Dallas Baptist College and an MBA from Colorado Technical University. Prior to assuming office, Judge Cockerham worked as a managing consultant, designing and implementing financial controls for large financial institutions. Judge Cockerham has also served as Director of Management Information Systems and in several other management positions for large corporations. He served as Mayor, member of the City Council and School Trustee in Italy, Texas. He is active in the community, serving on the Hood County Economic Development Board, Hood County Hospital District Board, and Juvenile Board. Also a member of the Rotary Club, he and his wife, Carole, reside in Hood County, Texas.