Students in the Model UN and Civil Rights Club at Mandela International Magnet School welcomed New Mexico Supreme Court Chief Justice David K. Thomson on Friday, March 13, for a discussion about the judiciary and the Rule of Law.
The visit was part of the New Mexico Supreme Court’s Rule of Law Program, which introduces students to the legal system through real-world cases, including the appeal of Carlos Mendez involving a drunk driving conviction and alleged jury bias.
Sophomore Leandro Narvaez hosted the event and provided a professional introduction. Chief Justice Thomson discussed the importance of considering multiple perspectives in jury selection and addressing bias in the judicial process, telling students, “I am a Libra — I have to weigh both sides.”
Students asked thoughtful questions about the role of the New Mexico Supreme Court, how cases are selected, ensuring fair trials, judicial bias, and what inspires someone to become a judge. The conversation highlighted students’ curiosity about the legal system and civic engagement.
A graduate of Santa Fe High School, Chief Justice Thomson was appointed to the New Mexico Supreme Court in 2019 and sworn in as Chief Justice in 2024. He has championed judicial education, diversity initiatives, and student engagement through programs like Rule of Law.
The visit provided students with a valuable opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world civic participation and better understand the importance of fairness, law, and civic responsibility.
