Stephen G. French
(Republican)
How have your training, professional experience, and interests prepared you to serve on this court?
For 35 years, I had the pleasure of meeting the legal needs of New Mexicans, as a prosecutor, criminal defense attorney, and a civil attorney. I handled over 110 appeals. I have been as a mediator and successfully resolved hundreds of complex cases. Now as a sitting Judge, I am familiar with the process and I have already decided several important matters before the Court.
What programs or changes would improve the New Mexico Supreme Court/Court of Appeals? (Question applies to the office for which you are the candidate.)
We need to continue to focus on the efficient administration of justice. I would like to see the Court of Appeals implement an electronic filing system. This would bring efficiency to the Court and the litigants.
What is your judicial philosophy?
Fairness must always come before politics. Every person, regardless of who they are, where they come from, or their political party is entitled to a full and fair hearing before the Court. That is the kind of Judge I am and that’s the kind of Judge I will continue to be.
What has been your greatest achievement as a judge?
In the short time I have been on the Court of Appeals, I have demonstrated my clear commitment to the fair and equal administration of justice, to resolving cases expeditiously, and to fostering the collegiality and dignity of the Court.
