Felonies could theoretically remain on your record for a lifetime in New Mexico.
However, some felony records are expungable or sealable, but state laws require you to make a petition the court for expungement, typically after waiting for significant periods post disposition or final order. Some felony convictions, such as those involving DWI/DUI, embezzlement, sex crimes, and violent offenses that caused great bodily harm or another’s death, may not be eligible for expungement under the New Mexico Criminal Record Expungement Act.
In This Article
New Mexico criminal record expungement lawyer, Marc A. Grano, discusses how public felony criminal records could affect your life, how to remove them from your record, and where you can turn for legal help, whether facing a felony or trying to get one removed. Grano Law Offices, P.C. wrote this blog post for people who want to learn more general information about felonies, criminal records, and getting them removed.
NM Felony Criminal Records Are Very Public
New Mexico criminal court records are accessible through the New Mexico Courts website at www.nmcourts.gov. In addition, New Mexico’s Inspection of Public Records Act (NMIPRA) allows people to inspect government-related documents, such as criminal records. As such, prospective employers, property owners, licensing agencies, and more can see that you have a felony record. For some, this means not being able to live with all of your rights intact while constantly struggling to prove your value and capabilities to others, regardless of your history or past experience.
A felony criminal record could also potentially impact your life in the following ways:
- Trouble finding employment
- Denials for a mortgage or loan
- Difficulties renting an apartment or house
- Deportation or denied entry into the US
- Denied entry into other countries
The list goes on and on when considering how a public felony criminal record can change your life. If you have a felony on your record, you can ask the court to grant an expungement order under the New Mexico Criminal Record Expungement Act (NM Stat § 29-3A-5) to get it removed. For those currently facing felony charges, ensure you hire a criminal defense lawyer to fight toward preventing a conviction or ensuring that the final disposition is the most advantageous possible.
Related Article: Are Criminal Records Public in New Mexico?
A New Mexico Criminal Record Expungement Is Possible
Hire a criminal record expungement lawyer in New Mexico with experience handling these types of matters. For instance, our law firm has been keeping its finger on the pulse of new developments and rules related to criminal record expungements. This level of dedication allows us to share information about new laws that could help you get the outcome you deserve.
Here are a few steps that you may want to consider taking in general, if you want to get a New Mexico criminal record expungement:
- Step 1. Get a Free Case Strategy Session with a New Mexico criminal expungement lawyer: This is your chance to learn about your case and its possibilities at no cost or obligation to you or your loved ones.
- Step 2. Follow Legal Advice: Your attorney will handle your case from start to finish, including directing you on what records are needed in order to put your expungement action in the best position for success, preparing and filing a petition with the district court and presenting all supporting evidence. Obtain the documents and records that your attorney requests prior to filing the petition, always appear at hearings on time and dress to impress.
- Step 3. Receive a Decision: District court judges have up to 30 days from your expungement hearing to issue a decision. Some judges also render a decision on the day of your hearing. It depends upon the facts of your case.
- Step 4. Confirm That Your Lawyer Followed Up with Government Agencies: If you let the courts handle the communication side of things, it can take some time for an expungement to clear your record. Your attorney will follow up with all governing agencies so that you have full confidence that you are benefiting from a legally protected right.
As you can see, it is a straightforward process when you have an attorney on your side. While no guarantees apply to how a judge will rule, you must present your case in the most positive light. Otherwise, you could end up losing your expungement case and, if you decide, will have to go through the process again.
Related Article: How to Expunge Your Record in New Mexico Under the New Criminal Record Expungement Act
Where to Get Legal Advice About Getting an NM Felony Record Removed
The only individual licensed to give legal advice on New Mexico expungements is a lawyer licensed to practice within the state. If you want personalized information and advice about your specific situation, speak with an expungement attorney. We are more than capable of reviewing the facts of your case and providing solutions that we execute upon your choosing.
Our legal team will also avoid legal mistakes and errors that can derail your request and future. Essentially, hiring a lawyer puts an experienced advocate on your side that meticulously pursues the outcome that you want and deserve.
Call Grano Law Offices, P.C. for a Free Case Strategy Session
The Las Vegas, NM criminal record expungement lawyer at Grano Law Offices, P.C. welcomes you to reach out for a FREE Case Strategy Session related to getting a felony record removed. Schedule yours by calling (505) 426-8711 or message us via the contact form below.
