Michael E. Vigil
District Court Judge
1st Judicial District
Los Alamos, Rio Arriba, and Santa Fe Counties
Year: 2002
Evaluation: Judge Vigil's performance as a District Court Judge was rated very favorably. Survey results from those who have been involved in his court indicate he is among the highest rated judges included in this evaluation. Specific strengths include conducting himself in a manner free of impropriety and displaying a sense of basic fairness and respect toward participants in his court. The evaluation also indicates that he understands the proper role of a judge and is diligent in discharging the administrative and judicial responsibilities of the court system. Judge Vigil has shown impressive improvement in most areas and is dedicated to continued improvement.
Experience & Education: Judge Vigil has served as District Judge in the First Judicial District since July 1994. His areas of judicial specialization include four years as a Children's and Family Court Judge as well as two years in the Criminal Division. Before becoming a judge, he practiced law with a private firm in Santa Fe for seventeen years. His community activities include serving on the Board of Directors for the Gerard's House and Loretto Tutor Team. He has also been a Mock Trial Judge for a youth program for six years. Judge Vigil received both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of New Mexico.