Los Alamos County Magistrate Judge
The Magistrate Court’s jurisdiction includes civil complaints of up to $10,000, criminal misdemeanor cases, some traffic cases, and felony preliminary hearings. Magistrate Judges serve four-year terms.
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CATHERINE E TAYLOR
(Dem)
Describe your qualifications and experiences that have prepared you to serve as County Magistrate Judge.
Describe your understanding of the legal codes that govern the matters over which the County Magistrate Judge has jurisdiction.
What factors should the County Magistrate Judge consider in determining the appropriate sentence for an offender?
What personal qualities do you consider to be important for the County Magistrate Judge?
Campaign Phone
925-264-9255
Filing County
Los Alamos
I have served as Magistrate Judge since January 1, 2023. Additionally, I am a licensed attorney since 2000 and previously worked as a prosecutor in criminal courts and California State Bar Court. I currently serve on the board of the New Mexico Magistrate Judges Association and its Legislative Committee. I was recently appointed to the Magistrate Judges Advisory Committee by the New Mexico Supreme Court.
Magistrate Court is a court of limited jurisdiction, which means I hear criminal matters including traffic offenses, misdemeanors (through jury trial), and felonies (through preliminary hearing); landlord/tenant disputes; and civil matters up to $10,000 in controversy. I have a thorough understanding of the statutes, rules, and codes which govern all of these proceedings.
The Code of Judicial Conduct precludes me from commenting on or appearing to make promises in connection with cases or issues likely to come before the court. Generally speaking, however, the primary factor to be considered is the applicable statute(s): i.e., what does the law require? Where the law allows for a judge to vary from the prescribed sentence, consideration of aggravating/mitigating factors; a defendant’s criminal history; or a defendant’s status (e.g.,
juvenile) are also relevant.
I consider integrity, impartiality, patience, and respect to be the most important qualities as a judge. Many cases are contentious and complicated, but each side deserves to be heard within the rules. My role is to patiently listen to both sides and apply the law fairly and impartially, even if the result will be unpopular. I remain committed to fairness, our rights, and the rule of law.
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