Lake Charles District B Judicial Election to Be Held
Voters in Lake Charles will select their next City Court judge for District B on November 3.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Criminal Justice
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The race for the District B City Court judge seat in Lake Charles will be decided by voters on November 3, 2026. This contest is the only local race appearing on the ballot.
Why it matters
The election will determine who presides over District B, a role currently held by the incumbent. This judicial position significantly influences the local legal process and community court programs.
Incumbent Ron Richard has served as a judge for 4 years, while challenger Walt Sanchez brings over 20 years of experience as an attorney. Sanchez has also served as a temporary judge in Lake Charles and Sulphur.
The players
Ron Richard
He is the incumbent judge for District B of the Lake Charles City Court who created the Fresh Start program.
Walt Sanchez
He is an attorney with over 20 years of experience who has served as a temporary judge in Lake Charles and Sulphur.
Jamie Bice
He is the current judge for District A of the Lake Charles City Court who was unopposed in this election.
The details
Incumbent Judge Ron Richard, who established the Fresh Start program, is competing against attorney Walt Sanchez for the District B seat. Meanwhile, District A Judge Jamie Bice faced no opposition in this election cycle.
Timeline
The election for the District B City Court judge seat is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
Legal Context
This election adheres to the standard procedures for judicial vacancies as defined by Louisiana judicial election statutes. The race follows the protocol where local judges are elected to serve, unlike temporary roles filled by Supreme Court appointment.
The result of this election will directly determine who presides over District B court proceedings for the city. Residents should prepare to vote on November 3 to decide the leadership of this local legal office.
The takeaway
Voters in Lake Charles have a single decision to make at the polls regarding the future of the District B court. Understanding the backgrounds of the judicial candidates is essential for participating in the upcoming election.
Further reading
Learn more about local court developments in the Criminal Justice section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kplctv.
Live Poll
Do you prefer a judicial candidate with extensive experience or one focused on court reform programs?
