Jerry H. Ritter, Jr.
District Court Judge
12th Judicial District --
Lincoln and Otero Counties
Year: 2008
Evaluation: Judge Ritter received positive ratings from both attorneys and non-attorneys in all areas. Attorneys gave the judge high marks for the clarity of his written and oral decisions, knowledge and application of the law, punctuality, preparation, attentiveness, and for maintaining proper control over the proceedings. The court staff rated him well for maintaining appropriate hours given the workload and for having a dignified demeanor. The resource staff (e.g. law enforcement and probation officers) also rated the judge highly in all areas.
Experience & Education: Judge Ritter was appointed District Judge on February 21, 1997. Prior to that appointment, he worked in private practice and as an Assistant District Attorney. He presides over a diversified docket and hears both civil and criminal cases. Judge Ritter is active in various civil and professional organizations. He received his undergraduate degree from New Mexico State University and his law degree from the University of New Mexico.