Stephen Bridgforth
District Court Judge
3rd Judicial District
Doña Ana County
Year: 2002
Evaluation: Judge Bridgforth has demonstrated a high level of competence and judicial skill during his service on the bench, where he serves in the Criminal Division. The judge received high ratings in areas relating to his judicial temperament, with respondents indicating that he is courteous to all participants and that he behaves in a manner befitting his office. This evaluation indicated no specific areas of weakness or concern. Although these evaluations results raised no specific criticisms of Judge Bridgforth's judicial performance, he remains committed to improving his own judicial skills as well as the administration of justice in New Mexico. Judge Bridgforth continues to work to improve his performance on the bench.
Experience & Education: Judge Bridgforth was appointed judge in 1999, and was elected to the same position the following year. He spent over 20 years in private law practice. He participates in church-related activities and is a member of the District Judges' Association. The judge received his undergraduate degree from the University of Tulsa and his law degree from the University of New Mexico.