Meet Judge Hafley

Judge John Hafley was elected in November 2022 to serve as Judge of County Court at Law No. 1. With over 15 years of legal experience, he has handled thousands of cases and built a reputation for fairness, efficiency, and a deep respect for the law.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Judge Hafley brings discipline and a servant’s heart to the bench. He earned his law degree from South Texas College of Law and holds a Master's Degree in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College.. Before becoming a judge, he worked as a police officer, an Assistant District Attorney, and owned his private practice for over 10 years in Montgomery County. He also served in the Army and Army Reserve and retired as a Brigadier General in October 2023.

Conservative Values:

  • Lifelong conservative and member of the Methodist Church

  • Son of a Methodist minister

  • Pro-life and pro-Constitutionalist 

  • Believes firmly in the inalienable rights of all Texans and persons.

  • Upholds the U.S. Constitution as a foundation of justice and the rule of law

Family Man:

  • Married to his wife Dina, a Conroe High School graduate, for 29 years

  • Proud father of two: J.C., a graduate of The Woodlands High School and The University of Mississippi, and Deanna, a graduate of Magnolia West High School and Texas A&M University

  • Former youth coach at Oak Ridge Woodlands Area Little League and South County Football League

Law Enforcement & Legal Service:

  • 8 years as a uniformed police officer, including service as a K9 officer

  • Recipient of the Medal of Valor and the Commendation Medal for life-saving actions

  • Former prosecutor who rose to Chief of a Felony Court

  • Dedicated to seeking justice for all citizens

Combat Veteran:

  • Iraqi War combat veteran and Bronze Star recipient

  • Deployed to Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and six other countries

  • Nearly 10 years of active duty and 30 years total service

  • Retired Brigadier General in the United States Army*

*John Hafley is a retired member of the United States Army. Use of his military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Army or the Department of Defense.

Outside the courtroom, Judge Hafley is an active member of the community and his church, as well as a devoted husband and father. His faith and family guide every decision he makes in life and the courtroom.