Chief Justice Judith K. Nakamura issued the following statement today on behalf of the New Mexico Supreme Court:
“Members of the New Mexico Supreme Court and the entire Judiciary are saddened to learn of the passing of our colleague, Justice Charles W. Daniels. Our state has lost a titan of the law. From humble roots as the son of sharecroppers, Justice Daniels grew into a towering figure as an attorney and jurist who for a half century tenaciously defended our constitutional rights and advanced equal justice under the law. His brilliant legal mind and sharp wit made him an eloquent and compelling presence in the courtroom.
Justice Daniels leaves a deep and lasting imprint on the legal landscape. His vision and advocacy for changing an antiquated pretrial system represents one of the most significant justice reforms in New Mexico history. All New Mexicans have benefited from his lifelong devotion to a fair and impartial system of justice. We mourn his loss and extend our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.”
