Judge Gary L. Clingman

SUPREME COURT News:

SANTA FE – Gov. Susana Martinez has appointed Fifth Judicial District Judge Gary L. Clingman to the New Mexico Supreme Court, filling the vacancy created by the retirement of Justice Edward L. Chavez. 

Judge Clingman brings more than 30 years of legal experience, including more than 20 years as on the bench as a district judge, to the Supreme Court.

“Judge Clingman has always demonstrated wisdom and integrity during his service in New Mexico,” Martinez said. “I am proud to appoint him to the highest court in our state so he can continue to devote his career to standing for justice and upholding the law for the people of New Mexico.”

Clingman has served as a New Mexico district judge in the Fifth District since 1997, serving as chief judge from 2006-2013. During his time on the bench, Judge Clingman gained extensive experience in criminal, children’s court and domestic relations law. A former law enforcement officer, Judge Clingman also served his community as president of the Hobbs Boys and Girls Club.

Prior to serving as a District Court Judge, Clingman spent 12 years as an attorney in Hobbs working for a private firm. He holds a Bachelor of Science in law enforcement from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin, a Master of Judicial Studies from the University of Nevada and a Juris Doctorate from Texas Tech University.