Judith K. Nakamura
Metropolitan Court Judge
Bernalillo County
Year: 2006
Evaluation: Judge Judith Nakamura's scores are generally positive. The attorneys rated her well for ruling on motions and cases in a timely manner, being attentive to the proceedings, and maintaining proper control over her courtroom. Attorneys also rated her very highly for her knowledge of the rules of procedure and evidence, and her knowledge of substantive law. The court staff rated Judge Nakamura well for being punctual in commencing proceedings and discharging responsibilities diligently. The resource staff (e.g. law enforcement officers) rated Judge Nakamura positively for communicating clearly and having a dignified demeanor.
Experience & Education: Judge Nakamura was elected to the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court in 1998, having previously worked in the State Land Office as general counsel and an Assistant Land Commissioner and was in private practice with two different law firms. Her peers elected her Chief Judge in 2002 and again in 2005. She received both her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of New Mexico. In 2006, she received the Mothers Against Drunk Driving National President's Award for Judge of the Year. The Albuquerque Bar Association honored her as the "Outstanding Judge" in 2004.