The current term of office of Part-Time United States Magistrate Judge Barbara Smith Evans is due to expire on September 10, 2026. The United States District Court for the District of New Mexico is required by law to establish a panel of citizens to consider the reappointment of the magistrate judge to a new four-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 MJMSP@nmcourt.uscourts.gov. Questions or issues may be directed to Lucy Carruthers, (505) 348-2126.

Comments must be received by February 27, 2026

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