The Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court Competency Court is designed to efficiently and effectively advance cases through the court system when competency has been raised.

When competency is raised, an individual is scheduled for a forensic evaluation. The evaluation is completed by a licensed mental health professional and provides information to the Court about the individual’s ability to continue on in the legal process.

Misdemeanor Competency Court is held bi-weekly, and an average of 15 cases are reviewed per court session. The Honorable Nina Safier presides over the misdemeanor competency docket.

Felony Competency Court is held weekly, and an average of 12 cases are reviewed per court session. The Honorable Shonnetta R. Estrada presides over the felony competency docket.

The Competency Court team consists of a defense attorney from the Law Offices of the Public Defender, a prosecutor from the District Attorney’s office, a behavioral health program manager, a project coordinator, a probation officer and case manager.