Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer Announces Retirement After a Distinguished Career

A Stellar Career Comes to a Close

Mary Marlowe Sommer, a respected New Mexico state district judge, has announced her retirement after a remarkable 15-year tenure on the bench. Her last day in office will be May 31, marking the end of a career dedicated to upholding justice and serving her community. Sommer served as the chief judge of the First Judicial District Court in Santa Fe from 2019 to 2022, earning a reputation for her integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law. Her retirement is a significant moment for the legal community, as it brings to a close a career that has left an indelible mark on the judiciary.

A Legacy of Fairness and Dedication

During her time on the bench, Judge Sommer presided over approximately 21,600 cases, ranging from family and juvenile matters to high-profile criminal trials. Her early years as a district judge focused on cases involving domestic violence, abuse, and neglect, areas where her empathetic approach and deep understanding of the law made a profound difference. In 2012, she began handling criminal cases, earning recognition for her ability to navigate complex legal issues with fairness and precision. Among her most notable cases were the trials of actor Alec Baldwin and Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, both connected to the tragic 2021 shooting on the set of the film Rust.

The Rust Shooting and Its Legal Aftermath

Judge Sommer gained national attention for her handling of the involuntary manslaughter charges against Alec Baldwin and Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer on the Rust set. The case stemmed from the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, who was fatally shot during a rehearsal when a revolver Baldwin was handling discharged. Baldwin maintained that he had pulled back the hammer but not the trigger, and the revolver fired unexpectedly. In a dramatic turn of events, Sommer dismissed the charge against Baldwin after prosecutors revealed that key evidence—a box of ammunition—had been mishandled. Baldwin’s legal team argued that investigators had improperly stored the evidence, leading to the dismissal of the case. Separately, Gutierrez-Reed was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in a trial also presided over by Sommer.

A Commitment to Justice and Community

Judge Sommer’s dedication to justice extended beyond the courtroom. Throughout her career, she worked tirelessly to ensure that the legal system delivered fair and timely outcomes for all individuals. Her early years as a law clerk, defense attorney, assistant attorney general, and hearing officer gave her a unique perspective on the complexities of the legal system. This experience informed her approach to the bench, where she was known for her ability to balance empathy with fairness. Sommer also played a pivotal role in addressing domestic violence and family matters, presiding over thousands of cases and advocating for systemic changes to support victims and families.

Reflections on a Life of Service

As Judge Sommer prepares to step away from the bench, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve her community. “It has been an honor and privilege to serve, but it’s time to step away from the hectic schedule of court business,” she said in a statement. Her retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that will likely be filled with reflection and relaxation after decades of public service. Colleagues and legal professionals have praising Sommer for her exceptional leadership and deep commitment to the judiciary. Current Chief Judge Bryan Biedscheid noted that Sommer’s integrity and dedication to the rule of law have been a cornerstone of her career.

The Next Chapter and Lasting Impact

Judge Sommer’s retirement will leave a void in the First Judicial District Court, but her legacy will enduringly shape the legal landscape of New Mexico. Her term was originally set to expire in 2028, so her early retirement will prompt a judicial nominating commission to select her successor. Whoever takes the bench will inherit a courtroom that Sommer has defined with her fairness, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. As she embarks on this new phase of her life, her contributions to the legal system and her community will continue to inspire future generations of judges and legal professionals.