This lawyer was counsel to El Chapo — and could soon be one of Mexico’s judges

washingtonpost.comPublished: 5/12/2025

Summary

Mexico is testing its judicial system by holding one of the world's largest elections for federal judges, aiming to inject fresh perspectives alongside civic leaders. This move has drawn criticism from organized crime groups, who fear their influence will seep into the selection process. Meanwhile, former cartel leader El Chapo's lawyer, Silvia Delgado, has withdrawn from representing him due to personal and ethical reasons, symbolizing a potential clash between professional obligations and personal values in a system already mired in corruption.