Judith A. Baca announces candidacy for probate judge

Bulletin report

Judith A. Baca is a candidate for Doña Ana County probate judge in the June 7 Democratic primary, Baca said in a news release.

Baca was born, raised and educated in Las Cruces and is a “long-time court advocate,” the news release said and “has more than 40 years’ experience in various capacities in the legal field – specifically the district court system and currently with public safety.

“During her 30 years in the district court system, Baca served as trial court administrative assistant to the Third Judicial District Court (Las Cruces) Children’s Division,” the news release said. “She also served as liaison and judge’s representative with court staff, state offices, community collaborative agencies, and with the public involving conservatorships, adoptions and involuntary commitment cases.”

Since 2011, Baca said she has been program coordinator for the Las Cruces Police Department Victim’s Assistance Program since 2011, “serving as liaison between victims of crime and the courts.”

“My work in the courts have taught me the importance of being empathetic and compassionate to the needs of the individuals affected by the decisions of the court,” Baca said. “I learned a great deal about probates and conservatorships while working as a trial court administrative assistant.”

A graduate of Las Cruces high School, Baca has an associate degree (2008) and a bachelor’s degree (2010), both in criminal justice from New Mexico State University. She earned a judicial studies certification in 2005. She also has a bachelor’s degree in applied studies with a minor in general business (2009) from NMSU.

“The last two years have been difficult for all of us but I have faith that we can all work together to come back from this stronger and better than before,” Baca said. “I love my community and our state and will use the judgeship to expand my reach and help those in need in probate matters.”