Havre Weekly Chronicle: Local judge completes National Computer Forensics Institute training

Judge Kaydee N. Snipes Ruiz

Kaydee earned a bachelor's degree in sociology and political science from Montana State University and a law degree from Gonzaga University School of Law. She was one of 24 judges selected nationwide to complete the National Computer Forensics Institute training in 2023. 

Kaydee has experience practicing private law and as a regional deputy public defender. 

Kaydee N. Snipes Ruiz is a District Court Judge in Judicial District 12. She was appointed in 2019 and has served one term. 

As District Court Judge in Judicial District 12, is responsible for managing the court and supervising the court's employees.

Served as a regional deputy public defender for the Montana Office of the State Public Defender and provided guidance and determined litigation strategy for attorneys under her supervision.

Practiced private law at Lorang Law in Havre.

- As District Court Judge in Judicial District 12, is responsible for managing the court and supervising the court's employees.
- Served as a regional deputy public defender for the Montana Office of the State Public Defender and provided guidance and determined litigation strategy for attorneys under her supervision.
- Practiced private law at Lorang Law in Havre.

Legal Experience

As of September 17, 2024, Kaydee N. Snipes Ruiz did not have a website or any information online.

Ethics & Conduct

Judicial Administration

Judicial Philosophy

Community Involvement

Kaydee N. Snipes Ruiz

- Montana District Courts are central to the state’s judicial system, handling most major legal proceedings and providing a pathway for appeals from lower courts.
- Montana District Court Judges handle a wide variety of cases, including all serious criminal charges and smaller felonies. These courts also take on major civil disputes and state financial claims.
- In civil matters, these judges deal with wills and estates (probate), disputes over contracts and property ownership, and other non-criminal legal issues.
- These judges also have the authority to review decisions made by smaller local courts within their jurisdiction, as allowed by state law and the Constitution.
Judges in the District Courts are elected by the public in their districts, emphasizing the importance of community representation.

Montana District Court Judge, District 12

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