The justice of the peace is the legal jurisdiction closest to the average citizen.

Section 19 of Article 5 of the Texas Constitution provides that: justice of the peace courts have original jurisdiction in criminal matters of misdemeanor cases punishable by fine only and such other jurisdiction as may be provided by law. Original jurisdiction is the authority to accept a case at its inception, try it and pass judgment based upon the laws and facts. This is distinguished from appellate jurisdiction which is jurisdiction to review a court's action. The justice of the peace performs the functions of a magistrate and conducts inquests.

A justice of the peace may issue warrants for search and arrest, conduct preliminary hearings, administers oaths, perform marriages and serve as a coroner in counties where there is no provision for a medical examiner. The justice court also functions as a small claims court in civil matters in which exclusive jurisdiction is not in district or county court and the amount in controversy does not exceed $5,000. They can also deal with matters concerning foreclosure of mortgages and enforcement of liens on personal property

Judge Cates has served as Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 since April, 2001. He was appointed to fill an unexpired term and was elected in 2002 and re-elected in November, 2006.

Judge Cates is a member of the Texas Bar Association, Kaufman County Bar Association and a member of the First Baptist Church of Forney. He has served as a District Attorney, a City Attorney and Partner. He also has served a the mayor of Forney and is a Director of the North Texas Municipal Water District.

Judge Cates has actively practiced law since 1962. His legal work is mostly confined to family, corporate, real estate, estate planning, and probate.

The Judges goals as Justice of the Peace are: 1) efficient administration of justice, 2) fairness to all, 3) friendly courteous service to the public, 4) eliminate the backlog of cases and remain current, 5) cooperate with all county officials in serving the citizens of Kaufman County.