Michael D. Bustamante
Court of Appeals Judge
Statewide
Year: 2002
Evaluation: Judge Bustamante received positive ratings from all populations surveyed for this evaluation. Some of his specific strengths include his ability to conduct himself in a manner free from impropriety, his demeanor in the courtroom, promptness, and sound knowledge of rules of evidence and recent legal developments. Judge Bustamante has improved upon positive ratings received in his prior evaluation, and this evaluation revealed no specific weaknesses. Currently, Judge Bustamante is focusing on improving his ability to issue opinions in a timely manner. The judge is committed to continually improving his work performance. Recently, he completed study for a graduate degree in law at the University of Virginia and his thesis is to be published.
Experience & Education: Judge Michael Bustamante was elected to the Court in 1996, prior to which he held an appointment to the Court of Appeals and spent twenty years in private practice. He has been active in community and professional legal organizations throughout his career. For example, he has been Chairperson of the Board of the Catholic Charities of Central New Mexico since 1993 and on the organization's board since 1989. Judge Bustamante received both his undergraduate and his law degrees from the University of New Mexico.