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Former justice says honesty is essential for judges
Summary
A former justice praised colleagues on New Mexico’s courts and told an audience that honesty — including the willingness to hold unpopular but correct opinions — is the single most important attribute for a judge.
A former justice speaking at an event praised colleagues on New Mexico’s courts and said honesty, even when unpopular, is the single most important attribute for a judge.
The speaker recalled that when applying to be a Supreme Court justice they were asked which attribute mattered most. "And I said honesty," the Former justice said, adding that the quality means more than not taking a bribe: it means being willing to hold an opinion you know will be criticized because it is the right decision.
The speaker named several colleagues they had worked with and praised their professional qualities, saying those justices were representative of the best of New Mexico’s judicial community. They singled out Justice Montgomery for "soaring intellect" and also mentioned Justice Ransom and Justice Sosa as examples of dedication and compassion for the state and its people.
The remarks emphasized character and dedication over spectacle. "The compassion of justice[s] who love New Mexico and our people more than all of us," the Former justice said. They closed by thanking the people they worked with and saying the recognition would remain one of their prized possessions.
The remarks were brief and largely ceremonial, focused on professional values and thanks rather than policy or specific court business. No formal motions or votes were recorded during the segment.
