On Monday, April 21, 2025, the Supreme Court of New Mexico publicly censured Michael G. Rael, a municipal court judge in Questa, for willful misconduct related to a car accident investigation in which he was involved. This decision follows a petition and a Stipulation Agreement between Judge Rael and the New Mexico Judicial Standards Commission, which outlined the terms of the censure.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Judge Michael G. Rael,” with case number S-1-SC-40711.
The case stemmed from a complaint filed against Judge Rael, prompting an investigation by the Commission. During an informal conference, Judge Rael discussed the allegations with Commission members, which ultimately led to the agreement acknowledging his misconduct.
According to the stipulation, on August 25, 2023, Judge Rael misused his judicial title while interacting with law enforcement officers investigating the accident. He repeatedly identified himself as “Judge Rael” and emphasized his position as the judge in Questa. Additionally, he admitted to driving 55 miles per hour in a 45 miles per hour zone, thereby failing to adhere to traffic laws.
Judge Rael’s actions were found to violate several rules within the New Mexico Code of Judicial Conduct. Specifically, he breached Rule 21-101, which mandates compliance with the law; Rule 21-102, which requires judges to promote public confidence in the judiciary; and Rule 21-103, which prohibits judges from abusing the prestige of their office for personal gain.
The Supreme Court noted that while violations of the Code of Judicial Conduct do not automatically result in disciplinary action, they do indicate misconduct. The justices reaffirmed that the evidence presented supported the conclusion that Judge Rael willfully violated the aforementioned rules.
The court emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust in the judicial system, citing the principle that an independent and impartial judiciary is essential for justice. Judge Rael’s behavior was deemed detrimental to the dignity of his office and eroded public confidence in the judiciary.
In their ruling, the justices highlighted that judges must conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the integrity of the legal system, both in their professional and personal lives. Judge Rael’s actions, particularly his invocation of his judicial status during a traffic incident, were viewed as creating an appearance of impropriety and suggesting preferential treatment.
The public censure serves as a formal reprimand and is intended to reinforce the standards of conduct expected of all judges in New Mexico. The Supreme Court’s decision reflects a commitment to ensuring that misconduct that undermines public confidence is addressed appropriately.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
