Believing in People, Strengthening Community
About Judge Diana Garcia
Judge Diana Garcia was appointed to the Second Judicial District Court, Division 19, by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in March 2024, after being recommended by the bi partisan Judicial Nominating Commission. She currently presides in Children’s Court, where she hears cases involving juvenile delinquency and abuse and neglect. She must now run in the 2026 election keep her seat and to continue serving the people of Bernalillo County.
A 14th-generation New Mexican born in Santa Fe, Diana graduated from New Mexico State University and earned her law degree from the University of New Mexico School School of Law.
For nearly three decades, Diana has dedicated her career to public service in New Mexico’s justice system. She spent nearly 10 years as a defense attorney with the Law Office of the Public Defender, followed by 18 years at the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office. As Supervising Deputy District Attorney of the Juvenile division, she prosecuted serious cases, including first-degree murder, and became a statewide leader in juvenile justice policy and training. Now, Diana is proud to continue serving the children and families of Bernalillo County with integrity and dedication.
Dedicated to Children and Families
“My desire is to help people. I am proud to come from a family of public servants. Most of my family has impacted change as educators. My passion for Children's Court allows me to remain in the 'family business' of focusing on improving the lives of children in my own way.” -Judge Diana Garcia
Diana’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to children, families, and community safety. She has built her expertise by working on both sides of the courtroom: as a defense attorney protecting client’s rights, and as a prosecutor advocating for victims and community safety. As Supervising Deputy District Attorney of the Juvenile Division, Diana became a statewide leader in juvenile justice policy and reform. She has also worked extensively to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in the justice system.
Her judicial philosophy is guided by the Children’s Code, which prioritizes accountability, rehabilitation, family unity, and community safety. She believes courts must provide the tools and support families need to move forward, in addition to making the difficult decisions necessary to protect victims and the broader community.
Beyond the Bench
Outside of the courtroom. Diana is deeply connected to her family and community. She is a proud mother whose children raced sprint cars, and she was a hands-on “race mom” and pit crew member. Diana was a classroom mom for both kids, team mom for soccer and lacrosse, an assistant soccer coach, and did Little League, Cub Scouts, dance, basketball, and gymnastics. Community service is important to Diana, collecting donations for baby food and other baby necessities, as well as personal hygiene products for women in domestic violence shelters or treatment facilities. She enjoys hiking, karaoke, concerts, visiting museums, and is always on the hunt for the best tacos in Albuquerque. She even dreams of one day playing the devil’s fiddle part in “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” complete with a sequined red dress.
The Second Judicial District Court - Children’s Court
The Second Judicial District Court, based in Albuquerque, is the largest trial court in New Mexico. Within it, the Children’s Court is a specialized division dedicated to cases involving young people and families.
Diana’s docket includes delinquency cases, abuse and neglect matters, and "crossover youth” who are involved in both systems. With nearly three decades of courtroom experience and statewide leadership in juvenile justice, she is uniquely qualified to handle these complex cases with fairness, compassion, and expertise.
2026 Election
Diana will be on the ballot in the 2026 election to keep her position and to continue serving us on the Second Judicial District Court, Division 19, Children’s Court. The Committee to Keep Judge Garcia is pursuing public financing to keep big money out of judicial races.
The Primary Election will be held June 2, 2026, and the General Election will be held November 3, 2026. Voters in Bernalillo County can vote to keep Judge Garcia working for children and families.
Nominating Petitions
To appear on the ballot, we must collect signatures from registered voters in Bernalillo County. By signing Diana's nominating petition, you help ensure that voters have the choice to keep an experienced, compassionate judge serving our community. Visit the Petition Portal to sign today.