Ava Natalia Bravo

Ava Natalia Bravo ran for election for the Department 2 judge of the Las Vegas Township Justice Court in Nevada. She lost in the primary on June 11, 2024.

Bravo completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Ava Natalia Bravo was born in Montebello, California. She attended San Diego State University, earned a bachelor's degree from the California State University, Fullerton in 1988, and a law degree from the Western State University College of Law in 1992. Her career experience includes working as an attorney at law, victims advocate, and minors counsel. She has been affiliated with the Las Vegas Latino Bar Association and Nevada Attorneys for Criminal Justice.^[1]

Elections

2024

General election

General election for Las Vegas Township Justice Court Department 2

Kristal Bradford defeated incumbent Joseph Sciscento in the general election for Las Vegas Township Justice Court Department 2 on November 5, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Kristal Bradford (Nonpartisan)	53.3	275,695
	Joseph Sciscento (Nonpartisan)	46.7	241,312

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 517,007
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for Las Vegas Township Justice Court Department 2

Incumbent Joseph Sciscento and Kristal Bradford defeated Ava Natalia Bravo in the primary for Las Vegas Township Justice Court Department 2 on June 11, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Joseph Sciscento (Nonpartisan)	42.6	53,821
✔	Kristal Bradford (Nonpartisan)	31.3	39,502
	Ava Natalia Bravo (Nonpartisan)	26.1	32,903

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 126,226
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Bravo in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

Ava Natalia Bravo completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Bravo's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

As a judicial candidate, I bring a unique blend of experience and perspective to the table. With a background as both a prosecutor and a criminal defense attorney, I have had the privilege of witnessing our legal system from multiple vantage points. This diverse experience has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities inherent in our justice system and has instilled in me a deep respect for the rule of law.

Furthermore, my work representing minors in the foster system has provided me with invaluable insights into the challenges facing some of the most vulnerable members of our society. I have seen firsthand the importance of ensuring that every individual receives fair and just treatment under the law.

In addition, my tenure as a probation officer, alongside my certification to carry a weapon and work alongside law enforcement officers, has given me a unique perspective on public safety.

Drawing on this diverse background, I am committed to bringing a balanced and nuanced approach to the bench. I believe that my experiences have prepared me well to serve as a neutral arbiter, dedicated to upholding the principles of fairness, justice, and equality for all. With your support, I am confident that together, we can work towards a legal system that truly serves the needs of our community.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Experience and Perspective: With my extensive background as a prosecutor, criminal defense attorney, advocate for minors in the foster system, and former probation officer, I bring a wealth of experience and perspective to the table. My multifaceted career has equipped me with a deep understanding of the intricacies of our legal system, allowing me to serve as a fair and impartial judge who considers all angles of a case.
Commitment to Impartiality and Fairness: I am unwavering in my commitment to upholding the principles of neutrality, fairness, and justice. If elected, I pledge to be a neutral arbiter who carefully evaluates all evidence and arguments before making decisions. My goal is to ensure that every individual who enters the courtroom receives a fair and just hearing, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Commitment to Honesty and Integrity: I hold honesty and integrity as paramount values in all aspects of my life, and my judicial candidacy is no exception. I am dedicated to serving with the utmost transparency, honesty, and integrity, ensuring that the trust placed in me by the community is never compromised. I will uphold the highest ethical standards, earning and maintaining the respect and confidence of all those I serve. I firmly believe that judicial decisions must never be influenced by personal relationships. I aim to serve with transparency, ensuring that the judiciary remains fair and unbiased for everyone in our community. I am committed to building a judiciary grounded in honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

As a judicial candidate, my focus is on upholding the law and ensuring that justice is served impartially and fairly. I am committed to the principles of justice and equality and must remain neutral on specific public policy issues. It is vital for a judicial candidate to approach matters of public policy without personal bias, as my role is to interpret and apply the law without prejudice or favoritism. While I may have personal opinions or passions about public policy matters, I will maintain strict neutrality in my candidacy to ensure that no personal views are perceived as potential influences on my role as an impartial arbiter.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I don't specifically look up to any individual or strive to embody a particular ideology. Instead, I believe in learning from personal experiences while treating others with dignity. My aim is to continually improve myself, staying focused on growth and remaining true to my core values. By being open to different perspectives, I draw insights from every experience to shape my own path. I am committed to forging a journey built on integrity and learning, all while giving back to the community and finding ways to work for its betterment.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

This question is not directly related to the position I'm seeking, and providing a response could lead to misunderstandings. Therefore, I respectfully choose not to answer.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

For an elected official, maintaining trust, accountability, and effective governance is crucial. Integrity forms the foundation, necessitating honesty and ethical conduct to build trust among constituents. Accountability is equally important, requiring officials to take responsibility for their actions, be transparent in decision-making, and remain responsive to constituents' needs. Fairness and impartiality are essential, ensuring that decisions are made without bias or favoritism, and all individuals are treated equally under the law. Additionally, a deep respect for the rule of law is paramount, requiring officials to uphold legal and constitutional principles while respecting the rights and liberties of all individuals. Through embodying these principles, elected officials can effectively serve their community, uphold public trust, and promote a fair and just society.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I believe I possess several qualities that would enable me to be a successful Judge. My commitment to impartiality ensures that I approach every decision with fairness and without bias. Integrity is paramount to me, and I uphold honesty and ethical conduct in all my endeavors, fostering trust among the public and refusing to compromise my ethics under any circumstance. My diverse background as a prosecutor, criminal defense attorney, and advocate for vulnerable populations has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the legal system and the needs of our community. Effective communication skills allow me to articulate complex legal concepts and address concerns effectively. Moreover, my problem-solving abilities enable me to analyze issues and make informed decisions in a fair and reasoned manner. Lastly, I bring compassion to my work, recognizing the human impact of legal decisions and striving to ensure that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Overall, I believe this combination of experience, integrity, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and compassion equips me to serve effectively as a Judge, dedicated to upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The fundamental responsibilities of anyone elected to this office include upholding the law impartially, ensuring that justice is administered fairly and equitably, and maintaining the public's trust in the integrity of the judicial system. This requires interpreting and applying the law accurately and objectively, basing decisions on the merits of each case and established legal principles, while protecting the rights and liberties of all individuals who appear before the court.

Furthermore, elected officials must exemplify transparency, accountability, and professionalism in their conduct both on and off the bench, recognizing that respect for the office demands different behavior even in personal life. They should foster a respectful and inclusive courtroom environment and uphold high standards in all aspects. Ultimately, the primary responsibility is to serve as a neutral and impartial arbiter, committed to the rule of law and the fair administration of justice with unwavering integrity.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I'm not focused on leaving a legacy in the traditional sense, but I firmly believe that how we treat others has a ripple effect on their interactions. When we approach people with kindness, respect, and integrity, we positively influence those around us, creating a world where empathy and understanding thrive, ultimately making the world a better place.

In this way, my legacy isn't about me but about the impact I've had on others through kindness, integrity, and respect. Ideally, I would like to be remembered as someone who was kind and strived to be the best they could, living a life that, while imperfect, embodies the characteristics everyone values.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I don't have a single favorite book, but I love to read and enjoy mysteries, thrillers, and true crime. The intrigue and suspense in these genres captivate me, as the unraveling of complex plots and the exploration of human behavior fascinate me. If the author is good, they keep me intrigued, and each story becomes an engaging puzzle that holds my attention until the very end.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

If I could be any fictional character, I'd choose Clary Fairchild from the *City of Bones* trilogy by Cassandra Clair. Her journey as a Shadowhunter is captivating. I read these books years ago when my children were teenagers, and we all read them simultaneously, enjoying discussions about the twists. Clary embodies resilience, determination, and courage as she navigates a world filled with supernatural forces and hidden dangers. Her unwavering loyalty to her friends and family, paired with her commitment to fighting evil and protecting humanity, makes her a character I admire. Being a Shadowhunter would be a thrilling adventure, challenging one's skills and offering a unique purpose in an intricate and fascinating universe.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

The song "Battle Belongs" by Phil Wickham.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

After careful consideration, I've come to recognize that my greatest challenge lies in opening up about certain hardships I've encountered. While I anticipate that with time, this may become more manageable, presently, I'm hesitant to divulge this aspect of myself to others.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

This question is not directly related to the position I'm seeking, and providing a response could lead to misunderstandings. Therefore, I respectfully choose not to answer.

How would you describe your legal philosophy?

As a neutral arbiter, my legal philosophy is rooted in the principles of fairness, impartiality, and adherence to the rule of law. I believe in the importance of interpreting and applying the law objectively, without personal bias or favoritism. My approach to jurisprudence is guided by a commitment to upholding constitutional principles, protecting individual rights and liberties, and ensuring equal treatment under the law for all individuals who come before the court.

My legal philosophy is centered on promoting justice, fairness, and the rule of law in every aspect of the judicial process. I strive to approach each case with an open mind, carefully considering all relevant facts, arguments, and legal principles before reaching a fair and impartial decision.

Is there a particular judge, past or present, whom you admire?

While I maintain neutrality and refrain from expressing personal admiration for specific judges, there are certainly justices who have left a lasting impact on the judiciary through their commitment to justice, integrity, and the rule of law. Many judges throughout history have demonstrated exemplary qualities and made significant contributions to the legal profession and society as a whole. Studying the legacies of these individuals can offer valuable insights into the principles and values that shape effective and respected judicial leadership.

One notable example that I've learned from is the friendship between Justices Antonin Scalia and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Despite their differing judicial philosophies and often opposing viewpoints, they shared a deep respect for each other and maintained a close friendship. This unique bond serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of civility, collegiality, and intellectual exchange within the judiciary. By examining their relationship, I've gained valuable insights into the importance of maintaining mutual respect and open dialogue, even in the face of ideological differences.

Do you believe that empathy is an important quality for a judge?

I recognize that empathy can play a nuanced role in the judicial process. While it's essential for judges to approach cases with impartiality and apply the law objectively, empathy can enhance their understanding of the human impact of legal decisions.

Empathy allows judges to appreciate the circumstances and perspectives of the individuals involved in a case, however, it's important for judges to balance empathy with impartiality and adhere to legal principles and precedent. While empathy can inform judicial discretion, it should not override the rule of law or lead to biased or subjective judgments.

Ultimately, while empathy can be a valuable quality for a judge, it must be tempered with objectivity, fairness, and a commitment to upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law.

Have you ever been rated by a Bar Association? If so, what was the rating?

I have not been rated.

Why are you running for this particular court seat?

I am running for this particular court seat because I believe that my background, experience, and values align with the responsibilities and duties of this position.

Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to serving the community and promoting the rule of law. My diverse background as a prosecutor, criminal defense attorney, advocate for minors in the foster system, and former probation officer has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of our legal system and the needs of our community.

I am passionate about ensuring equal access to justice for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances. I believe that my experience and commitment to fairness and integrity make me well-suited to serve as a neutral arbiter on the bench, adjudicating cases with impartiality and upholding the rights and liberties of all individuals who come before the court.

Running for this particular court seat allows me to continue my lifelong commitment to public service and contribute to the administration of justice in our community. I pledge to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and integrity if elected to this position.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for a judge to have previous experience in government or politics?

As a candidate, I believe previous experience in government or politics can enhance a judge's understanding of legal complexities. My background as a prosecutor, defense attorney, and in related roles provides me with valuable insights into the legal system. This experience informs my commitment to fairness, impartiality, and upholding the rule of law.

What is your primary concern about today's legal system in your state?

One of my primary concerns about today's legal system is the issue of professionalism and courtroom decorum. While our legal system is built upon the principles of respect, dignity, and fairness, instances of unprofessional conduct and a lack of decorum in the courtroom can undermine these principles and erode public confidence in the judiciary.

Unprofessional behavior, such as incivility, disrespect towards litigants, attorneys, or court personnel, or failure to adhere to established courtroom procedures, can disrupt proceedings, delay justice, and create an atmosphere of hostility and distrust. Additionally, a lack of decorum can reflect poorly on the legal profession as a whole, tarnishing its reputation and diminishing its perceived authority and credibility.

By prioritizing professionalism and courtroom decorum, we can uphold the integrity of the legal system, enhance public trust and confidence in the judiciary, and ensure that justice is served in a manner that is fair, dignified, and respectful to all parties involved.

What do you consider the greatest opportunity for the legal system in your state?

I believe that one of the greatest opportunity for the legal system in my state lies in embracing innovation and technology to enhance access to justice and improve efficiency and effectiveness in the administration of law.

Advancements in technology have the potential to revolutionize the legal profession, making legal services more accessible, affordable, and efficient for all individuals.

By embracing these innovations and leveraging technology to modernize our legal system, we can break down barriers to access to justice. Technology can enable individuals to navigate the legal process more easily, connect with legal resources and services, and access information and assistance remotely, regardless of their geographical location or socioeconomic status.

Furthermore, technology can enhance transparency and accountability within the legal system, allowing for greater public scrutiny and participation in the administration of justice. By harnessing the power of technology to promote fairness, efficiency, and accessibility in the legal system, we can ensure that justice is truly served for all individuals in our state.

Would you be interested in serving on a higher court in the future? If so, which court appeals to you?

While I remain open to personal and professional growth, my current focus is on serving effectively in the role I am pursuing. As a candidate for this position, my primary goal is to contribute meaningfully to the administration of justice and uphold the principles of fairness, impartiality, and integrity. While I recognize the importance of higher courts and their impact on shaping legal precedent and policy, my immediate focus is on serving the community in the capacity for which I am seeking election. If the opportunity to serve on a higher court were to arise in the future, I would carefully consider it based on how I could best contribute to advancing justice and the rule of law.

Do you believe that Bar Association ratings are an accurate reflection of a judge’s ability?

Bar Association ratings can provide valuable insights into a judge's qualifications, temperament, and professional conduct. However, it's important to recognize that Bar Association ratings are not infallible and may not always provide a complete picture of a judge's ability. Factors such as the scope of the evaluation criteria, the methodologies used, and the perspectives of the evaluators can influence the ratings.

Additionally, judges' performances can vary across different cases and contexts, and a single rating may not fully capture their overall effectiveness or suitability for the bench. Therefore, while Bar Association ratings can be a useful tool for evaluating judges, they should be considered alongside other factors, such as judicial opinions, courtroom demeanor, and feedback from legal professionals and litigants.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Recommended by the Third Branch PAC, endorsed by: Nevada Association of Public Safety Officers; Clark County District Attorney Investigators Association; Veterans In Politics International; Armed Forces Chambers; Nevada Democratic Veterans and Military Families; Juvenile Justice Probation Officers Association; Clark County Juvenile Justice Supervisors Association; Las Vegas Metro Police Protective Association for Civilian Employees; Nevada Peace Officers Association; Nevada Veterans Association; Henderson Police Supervisors Association; Henderson Police Officers Association; Mesquite Police Officers Association; Pershing County Law Enforcement Association.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

This question is not directly related to the position I'm seeking, and providing a response could lead to misunderstandings. Therefore, I respectfully choose not to answer.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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Candidate

Las Vegas Township Justice Court Department 2

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Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on May 17, 2024

Nevada courts

Federal courts:

Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals • U.S. District Court: District of Nevada • U.S. Bankruptcy Court: District of Nevada

State courts:

Nevada Supreme Court • Nevada Court of Appeals • Nevada District Courts • Nevada Justice Courts • Nevada Municipal Courts • Clark County Family Court, Nevada

State resources:

Courts in Nevada • Nevada judicial elections • Judicial selection in Nevada

[1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on May 17, 2024

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Ava Natalia Bravo

Contents

Biography

Elections

2024

General election

General election for Las Vegas Township Justice Court Department 2

Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for Las Vegas Township Justice Court Department 2

Endorsements

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

2025 Elections

2026 Elections

2024 Election analysis

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Public Policy

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