Santa Fe County Magistrate Judge Division 2
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.
Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.
-
MELISSA Y MASCARENAS
(Dem)
What are the qualifications and experience that have prepared you to be a County Magistrate Judge?
Why do you want to serve as a County Magistrate Judge?
What is your view on the balance between the rights of tenants vs. landlords in disputes?
What factors would you consider in making sentencing decisions?
mailingstate
NM
Occupation
Santa Fe Magistrate Judge
Filing County
Santa Fe
I was elected to this position in November, 2025. I have continued to work hard in this postion attending continuing education classes and keeping up with the new laws that have been passed by the current legislature. I have lived in Santa Fe County my entire life so I know my community. I am currently on the New Mexico Magistrate Association Board where we collaborate with each other to find better solutions to our positions as Judges.
I am passionate about helping people. I want to make this community a better place to live and work. Making a difference is one of my strong points. As a Magistrate Judge I can help make this happen. We face many problems, and I want to continue to bring positive changes to our community.
As Judge I can only tell you that in any case that I preside over is I must follow the law.
As Judge I can only tell you that in any case that I preside over is I must follow the law.
To make a selection for a candidate you must first find your races. Would you like to find your races now?
You have already selected the maximum number of candidates for this race.
You must uncheck an existing selection before making another selection.