The bill amends Section 35-2-1 of the New Mexico Statutes to establish a minimum age requirement of twenty-eight years for individuals seeking election or appointment as magistrate judges. This change ensures that all magistrates are at least twenty-eight years old at the time of their election or appointment, thereby potentially enhancing the maturity and experience of those in judicial positions.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing qualifications for magistrate judges, including the requirement to be a qualified elector and resident of the respective magistrate district, as well as the educational requirement of having graduated from high school or possessing an equivalent credential. In districts with populations exceeding two hundred thousand, the bill specifies that candidates must either be licensed attorneys or current magistrates in that district, ensuring a higher standard of legal expertise for those serving in these roles. The bill also reiterates that magistrates cannot engage in private law practice while in office.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 35-2-1
Final Version: 35-2-1