The current term of office of United States Magistrate Judge Laura Fashing is due to expire on August 31, 2023. The United States District Court is required by law to establish a panel of citizens to consider the reappointment of the magistrate judge to a new eight-year term.

The duties of a magistrate judge in this court include the following: (1) presiding over most preliminary proceedings in criminal cases, (2) trial and disposition of misdemeanor cases, (3) presiding over various pretrial matters and evidentiary proceedings on delegation from a district judge, (4) taking of felony pleas, and (5) trial and disposition of civil cases upon consent of the litigants. Comments from members of the bar and the public are invited as to whether the incumbent magistrate judge should be recommended by the panel for reappointment by the court.

Comments may be submitted by email to usmjnewmexico@nmd.uscourts.gov. Questions or issues may be directed to Monique Apodaca, (575) 528-1439. Comments must be received by February 18, 2023.

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