State district court judges hear many types of cases, both civil and criminal. Their civil cases include private injury lawsuits, contracts, real estate, family law, and some mental health and election-related issues. The criminal cases they hear include felony and more serious misdemeanor matters.
Education
Juris doctor, Wayne State University Law School, 2009; Bachelor of arts in sociology - cum laude, Wayne State University, 2005; High school diploma, Farmington High School, 2001
Occupation
District Judge
Filing County
San Juan
I have been serving as district judge since May 2024. I was nominated by a local committee made up of judges, prosecutors, attorneys, and community members after a public interview process. I have worked in San Juan and McKinley Counties as an attorney or judge for the past 14 years.
I understand the important role a judge plays in community safety and I hold convicted defendants accountable for their actions.
Prior to taking the bench I served as a magistrate judge, prosecuted civil child abuse and neglect cases for the state, represented individuals in criminal, civil, and family law matters, and served as a guardian ad litem for children and incapacitated adults. I have been attorney or judge in over 50 criminal jury trials.
My experience as district judge the past two years has prepared me to continue serving my community.
I am experienced in applying the law faithfully and consistently, committed to treating every person in my courtroom with dignity, and sworn to uphold the Constitution. I deeply understand the impact the decisions I make in the courtroom have on individuals, families, victims, businesses, and the community.
I do not rubber stamp sentencing recommendations in plea agreements. I examine them carefully, listen to all sides, including victims, and make sure the result is fair, just, and holds convicted defendants accountable.
I am constantly learning as a judge and am committed to improving my performance on the bench.
I have already improved court operations as district judge.
My first focus was on improving scheduling so people did not have to wait as long for their day in court and to ensure the right to a speedy trial.
I created a criminal settlement facilitation program that uses mediators to help resolve cases with victim input. This program has a success rate of 80%. The average jury trial costs $4,000 so each resolved cases saves the court money and also time.
I implemented modifications to our CHANGE court program to bring probationers before the court more regularly leading to increased accountability.
I started quarterly criminal bench and bar meetings to bring attorneys and judges together to address emerging issues and changes to the law.
Strong judges who fiercely maintain their ethical standards and neutrality ensure that existing policies keep the judiciary independent from political influence. Judges who provide detailed explanations of their decisions and enter clear, detailed written orders provide transparency and allow for meaningful appellate review. Judges and candidates who are committed to faithfully applying the law rather than campaigning on outcomes remove political influence from the judiciary. Every day I strive to achieve judicial independence, neutrality, and integrity.
I love serving as district judge because almost every case is a chance to make a difference. My sentencing decisions may bring peace of mind to a victim, protect the community from a threat, or help a defendant get desperately needed substance abuse treatment. I am able to help litigants in my courtroom by ensuring their Constitutional rights are protected.
I am married to Ellen, who is the deputy county attorney in San Juan County. We moved here 14 years ago and absolutely fell in love with this community. We have chosen to raise our family here and now have two daughters, ages 7 and 9. I love spending time with my family, camping and rafting, and coaching my daughter’s soccer team. I am committed to serving this community we love.
