Magistrates are judges in limited jurisdiction courts. They hold the initial hearings in many types of serious criminal cases, and try criminal cases, including many first-time DUI/DWI and other misdemeanor cases which carry relatively less serious penalties. They also have jurisdiction over some types of civil cases (e.g., landlord/tenant and contracts) in which the amount sought is less than $10,000. Term: Four years; no term limits.
I bring over 42 years of public service including 14+ years at the Springer Magistrate incl 10 years as the Court Manager. I have experience supervising employees, solving problems, maintaining efficient operations, handling administrative responsibilities and keeping the court functioning professionally. I understand how cases move through the Magistrate Court from filing through disposition in both criminal and civil cases. I understand the legal process and most importantly how to treat people with fairness and respect. My experience is current and ongoing. I have worked through the transition to electronic filing, paperless process, virtual hearings and other changes in the court.
Balancing public safety with individual rights as a judge must make difficult decisions the challenge is to protect the community while remembering that every defendant is entitled to due process and that every decision must be based on the law and facts and not public pressure; maintaining public confidence in the court as people do not always agree with the decision of a judge; technology and access to justice for people without reliable internet, equipment, transportation or technological skills; maintaining impartiality in a small community; legal problems that overlap with health issues and the responsibility of judges to be able to recognize this problem and finally the lack of public defenders in rural areas.
As Magistrate Judge, I would work closely with court staff while respecting their individual responsibilities, maintain an organized and professional courtroom, and continually look for ways to improve procedures within the rules established by the NM Judiciary. Efficiency is important but it should never come at the expense of fairness or due process. Consistent procedures and good communication with strong case management from the time the case is filed until resolved is essential which is where my 14+ years experience becomes relevant. An efficient court isn't one that moves cases quickly, it's one that moves cases correctly, consistently, and fairly.
I want the people of Colfax County to know that my candidacy is about more than the number of years I have worked in public service. I am a wife, a mother a longtime public servant and a member of this community. I have served on the Springer School Board and worked with our young people as a high school volleyball official. These experiences have taught me how important it is to listen, to treat people with respect, to remain calm in difficult situations and make decisions based on facts rather than personalities or pressure. I believe a courtroom should be professional, respectful, fair, consistent and efficient. I want to continue serving in a position where integrity, fairness, good judgment and respect matter every day.
I served as Magistate Judge in Division one for 22 years and received a certificate of justiciable studies from the National Judicial College in Reno Nevada.
Listening to all the evidence provided in cases and properly applying the law and rules to each case. Giving proper consideration to rules of evidence is paramount.
Hearing cases in a timely manner. As time drags on, evidence is lost, memories become clouded or forgotten. People lose their drive to resolve cases. The public deserves to have their cases adjudicated in a timely and efficient manner.
I am an Army veteran. I served seven years aquiring the rank of Captain and earned my wings as a chinook pilot.
