New Mexico Second Judicial District Court, Division II
Background Matthew Chavez serves on the Second Judicial District Court in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. The court handles civil cases over $10,000, family law matters such as divorce and child custody, criminal felonies, and appeals from the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court, including DWI and domestic violence cases.
Education He earned his law degree from the University of New Mexico School of Law.
Prior Experience Prior to his appointment, Chavez served as Chief Legal Counsel for the New Mexico Department of Public Safety. In that role he advised the Cabinet Secretary on legal issues, managed agency policy and compliance, and contributed to legislative efforts.
Earlier in his career, he served as District Defender for the Law Office of the Public Defender in both the Second and Twelfth Judicial Districts. He oversaw complex caseloads, supervised teams, and managed high trial volumes, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. He represented hundreds of clients and tried more than 70 jury trials.
He has also contributed to legal education as guest faculty at the University of New Mexico School of Law and by authoring training manuals for attorneys statewide.
Appointment & Current Role A Democrat, he was appointed to the Second Judicial District Court in March 2025 by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, following a recommendation from the bipartisan Judicial Nominating Commission.
Election Status His term expires on December 31, 2026. He is running in the general election on November 3, 2026.




















































