Accessing public records in New Mexico is generally cost-effective. The state doesn’t enforce strict deadlines for responses, exempt certain fees, have specific administrative appeal procedures, or require citizenship for access.
The state’s Attorney General has ruled that any charges should only cover the actual cost of making copies, and fees for searching records are not allowed. If you’re denied access to public records, the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA) in New Mexico permits you to file a legal complaint. The state adheres to the principles of the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) when it comes to retrieving records. In New Mexico, citizenship is not a prerequisite for accessing records, and the only charges applied are for copying documents.
How to Request New Mexico Public Records
Requesting public records in New Mexico involves several steps aligned with the state’s Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA).
Table of Contents
Here's a general guide on how to proceed:
Where to Find Public Records in New Mexico
Different New Mexico agencies manage various types of records. Here’s where you can typically find them:
Vital Records (Birth, Death, Marriage, Divorce):
It's important to note that to access birth and death certificate details, you can either visit the New Mexico Department of Health's (DOH) website or contact the Department directly. However, if you need a marriage or death certificate, you should look up the website of the county clerk in the respective county.
Property Records:
To access property records in New Mexico, you should visit the county assessor's office in the county where the property is situated. These records typically encompass various details such as liens, titles, property deeds, mortgage data, and property tax assessments. Additionally, the New Mexico Department of Taxation and Revenue offers information related to property taxes as well as unclaimed assets.
Business Records:
To locate business records in New Mexico, the most comprehensive resource is the New Mexico Secretary of State's office. To access these resources, you can visit the New Mexico Secretary of State's website at New Mexico Secretary of State Business Search
Court Records:
Direct access to New Mexico court records is available by visiting NewMexicoCourts.gov. This website enables you to search for specific courts or individual court cases.
Driving Records:
In New Mexico, accessing individual driving records is convenient and can be done through the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD).
Professional Licenses
The New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department is responsible for professional licensing. They oversee various professions and provide an online search tool on their website, where you can verify the status of professional licenses.
State Archives:
For historical records, the New Mexico State Records Center and Archives is the primary repository. They maintain a vast collection of historical documents, including governmental records, maps, photographs, and other important state documents.
Are New Mexico Public Records Available Online?
Accessing most public records in New Mexico is straightforward online, but it’s crucial to know which agency’s website to visit. For birth and death certificates, the New Mexico Department of Health’s website is your destination.
Marriage certificates are available from the county clerk of the county where the marriage license was issued. For example, if you were married in Santa Fe County, you would find the marriage certificate on Santa Fe County Clerk’s website. Divorce decrees are retrievable from the district court where the divorce was filed.
Criminal histories and background checks are managed by the New Mexico Department of Public Safety, while jail and inmate information is available through the New Mexico Corrections Department.
For property information, each county in New Mexico has an assessor’s office that maintains property records.
State Public Records Law
The Freedom of Information Act allows anyone in New Mexico to access public records from all levels of government.
- Definition of Public Records: Public records in New Mexico include documents, materials, or information created, maintained, or held by government agencies.
- Access to Public Records: Public records are generally accessible to the public, subject to specific regulations under New Mexico law.
- Government Agencies Covered: All state, local, and municipal government bodies in New Mexico fall under the scope of public records law.
- Exceptions and Exemptions: Certain records, such as those pertaining to personnel, security, or confidential legal matters, are exempt from public disclosure.
- Record Request Process: Requests for public records in New Mexico should be submitted in writing to the relevant government agency.
- Response Time: Agencies in New Mexico are required to respond to public records requests within 15 calendar days.
- Fees: Fees may be charged for the actual cost of copying records, but no fees are imposed for searching or reviewing them.
- Dispute Resolution: If access to public records is denied, individuals may file a complaint or legal action under the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA).
Which records are public in New Mexico
Which records are not public in New Mexico
In New Mexico, while many records are accessible under the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA), several categories of records are not considered public or are exempt from disclosure. These exemptions are designed to protect sensitive information, individual privacy, and the integrity of government operations.
New Mexico Background Checks
Background checks in New Mexico are procedures conducted by individuals or organizations New Mexico background checks are investigative processes used to gather information about an individual’s history. These checks are commonly used for employment, housing, and other verification purposes. You can obtain criminal histories and background checks through the state’s Department of Public Safety.
What Can Be Included In a Background Check Report?
Criminal Records
Details of any criminal offenses, including arrests, convictions, and incarcerations. New Mexico adheres to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) standards, which can limit the reporting of certain older offenses.
Employment History
Verification of past employment, including dates of employment, positions held, and reasons for leaving.
Educational Verification
Confirmation of educational credentials claimed by the individual, such as degrees or certifications from educational institutions.
Credit History
For certain positions, particularly those involving financial responsibilities, a credit history check might be conducted. This includes credit scores, loans, bankruptcies, and payment histories.
Driving Records
Information on driving history, including traffic violations, accidents, and DUI records, which is particularly relevant for positions involving driving.
Sex Offender Registry Check
Verification to determine if the individual is listed on state or national sex offender registries.
Personal References
Checking references provided by the individual to gain insights into their character and work ethic.
Professional Licenses and Certifications
Verification of any professional licenses or certifications required for the position.
Social Security Number Validation
Ensuring the validity of the individual’s Social Security Number and checking for any discrepancies.
Civil Records
Examination of civil litigation records, which can include lawsuits, judgments, liens, and civil actions.
New Mexico Court Records
Overview of the New Mexico court system and its Structure:
The New Mexico court system is a hierarchical structure with several levels, each serving different functions and jurisdictions.
- Supreme Court: At the top of the hierarchy is the New Mexico Supreme Court. It is the highest court in the state and has the ultimate judicial authority. The Supreme Court reviews decisions made by lower courts, interprets state laws and the New Mexico Constitution, and oversees the administration of the state’s judicial system.
- Court of Appeals: Below the Supreme Court is the New Mexico Court of Appeals. This court primarily handles appeals from the lower courts. It reviews cases to ensure the correct application of law and can overturn decisions or order retrials.
- District Courts: The District Courts are the trial courts of general jurisdiction. They handle a wide range of cases, including criminal, civil, juvenile, family, and probate matters. New Mexico has several judicial districts, each covering one or more counties.
- Metropolitan Court: In Bernalillo County, the Metropolitan Court serves a unique role. It has limited jurisdiction and hears cases similar to those in magistrate and municipal courts, but it also handles some matters typically reserved for district courts, such as preliminary hearings in felony cases.
- Magistrate Courts: Magistrate Courts have limited jurisdiction over certain types of criminal and civil cases. They often handle misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, and civil cases involving smaller monetary amounts.
- Municipal Courts: Municipal Courts are local courts that deal with violations of city ordinances, petty misdemeanors, and traffic cases. Individual municipalities establish them and do not handle civil cases.
- Probate Courts: Probate Courts have limited jurisdiction and primarily deal with matters relating to the estate of deceased persons, including wills and the administration of estates. Not every county in New Mexico has a probate court, and in those without, the district court handles probate matters.
Types of New Mexico Court Records
Civil Court Records
- Lawsuits, filings, and judgments
- Small claims court records
Criminal Court
- Arrest records
- Court case records and proceedings
Family Court Records
- Divorce records
- Child custody and support records
Probate Court Records
- Estate records
- Guardianship and conservatorship records
Traffic Court Records
- Traffic violations and citations
Restrictions, Limitations, and Confidentiality
In New Mexico, while the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA) promotes transparency and access to public records, there are several restrictions, limitations, and confidentiality considerations to ensure privacy, security, and effective government operations.
What do these records contain
- Case Information: Basic details about the case, such as case number, parties involved, type of case (civil, criminal, etc.), and the status of the case.
- Court Documents: This includes filed documents such as complaints, motions, orders, judgments, and other legal filings.
- Court Orders and Judgments: Details of the court's decisions, including final judgments, sentencing (in criminal cases), and orders.
- Dockets and Case Summaries: Chronological record of all proceedings and filings in the case.
- Evidence and Exhibits: Records of evidence submitted during a trial or hearing, though some evidence may be sealed or restricted.
- Transcripts: Transcripts of what was said during court hearings and trials, if available.
- Sentencing and Disposition: For criminal cases, court records may contain information on sentencing and disposition, including details about the charges, plea agreements, and any imposed penalties, fines, or sentences.
Courts in New Mexico
- Federal courts located in New Mexico
- New Mexico Court of Appeals
New Mexico Public Vital Records
Marriage and Divorce Records: Marriage Records are issued and filed by the County Clerk’s office in the county where the marriage license was obtained. Marriage records in New Mexico are considered public, and anyone can access them. To obtain a copy, you would need to contact the respective County Clerk’s office. This can usually be done in person, by mail, or through any online services they offer. The marriage record typically includes the names of the individuals, the date of marriage, and the place where the marriage was registered. Divorce records, on the other hand, are filed with the District Court in the county where the divorce was granted. Access to divorce records can be a bit more restricted compared to marriage records, as they may contain sensitive information. Individuals who wish to obtain a copy of a divorce record usually need to be one of the parties involved in the divorce, their legal representative, or have a court order. Divorce records include information such as the names of the parties, the date of the divorce, and the terms of the divorce settlement.
Birth and Death Records: In New Mexico, birth and death records are managed by the state’s Department of Health, specifically through the Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics. Both birth and death records are essential for legal, administrative, and genealogical purposes. When requesting these records, it’s important to provide adequate identification and, if necessary, proof of relationship or legal interest. There are also fees associated with obtaining certified copies of these records. For specific details on the request process and requirements, visiting the New Mexico Department of Health’s website or contacting the Bureau directly is advisable.
New Mexico Public Criminal Records
Definition and Types of Criminal Records in New Mexico
New Mexico Criminal Records consist of documents and details pertaining to an individual’s criminal history within the state. Typically, these records encompass information about an individual’s arrests, charges brought against them, any resulting convictions, and the accompanying sentences or penalties, if any.
Criminal records in New Mexico typically contain a range of information related to an individual’s interactions with the criminal justice system. The specific details in these records can include:
New Mexico Criminal Records are detailed collections of data that provide insights into an individual’s criminal history within the state. These records typically encompass a broad array of information, such as:
- Personal Information: The individual’s personal information, including their full name, date of birth, and race or ethnicity.
- Personal Identification: Physical attributes like weight, height, hair color, and eye color.
- Fingerprints: Fingerprints associated with the individual.
- Mugshots: Mugshots taken during the arrest process.
- Charges: Specifics about the criminal charges the individual has faced.
- Records: Records of convictions detailing the nature of the offense.
- Sentencing Details: Information on the sentence, including any penalties, fines, probation terms, or periods of imprisonment.
- Arrest Record and Warrants: Arrest records, as well as information on any outstanding warrants.
Police Records and Reports
In New Mexico, police records and reports comprise a range of official documents created by law enforcement agencies detailing their operations and findings. This includes arrest records, which document individual arrests with details about the suspect, the charges, and the arrest circumstances. Incident reports are another common type, providing narratives of various events like thefts, assaults, or accidents that required police intervention, including specifics like date, time, and location. For vehicular accidents, specific accident reports are generated detailing the involved parties, witness statements, and assessments of damages. Additionally, police departments compile crime statistics, offering compiled data on different types of reported crimes. With the increasing use of body cameras, footage from these devices often becomes part of the police record, subject to privacy and regulatory considerations. Lastly, evidence reports, which include details of evidence collected during investigations and search warrant records detailing the issuance and execution of these warrants, are also integral parts of police records and reports in New Mexico.
Booking Records and Reports
In New Mexico, booking records and reports are official documents created when an individual is processed into a detention facility following an arrest. These records typically include the arrested individual's personal details, such as name, date of birth, and physical characteristics. The booking process also involves taking fingerprints and mugshots. These records detail the specific charges against the individual, any assigned bail amount, and the booking date and time. Additionally, they may include information on the arresting agency and the location of the arrest. Booking records are maintained by the law enforcement agency or the detention facility where the individual is held and are generally considered public records, although access to them may be subject to certain privacy laws and regulations.
DUI Records
In New Mexico, DUI (Driving Under the Influence) records are maintained as part of an individual's driving history and criminal record. These records document instances where a person was apprehended and convicted for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A DUI record typically includes the offender’s personal information, details of the offense such as the date, location, and blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest, and any resulting legal actions, including charges, convictions, and penalties imposed. Penalties might include fines, license suspension, mandatory education programs, or imprisonment. DUI records are used for legal proceedings, determining penalties for repeat offenses, and can impact driving privileges and insurance rates. Access to these records is generally available to law enforcement, courts, and certain authorized entities, with restrictions to protect personal privacy.
Felony and Misdemeanor Records
In New Mexico, felony and misdemeanor records document criminal offenses categorized as either felonies or misdemeanors. Felonies are serious crimes, typically punishable by imprisonment for over a year, while misdemeanors are less severe offenses, usually resulting in shorter jail terms or fines. These records contain personal information about the individual charged, including the nature of the crime, date of the offense, details of the arrest, charges, and court proceedings. They also include the outcome of the case, such as convictions, sentences, probation details, and any subsequent appeals. Maintained by criminal courts and law enforcement agencies, these records are crucial for legal proceedings, background checks, and law enforcement purposes. Access to felony and misdemeanor records may be subject to certain privacy laws and regulations, although they are generally considered public records in New Mexico.
Parole Records
In New Mexico, parole records are official documents that detail the supervision and conditions of an individual's release from prison before the completion of their sentence. These records typically include the parolee's personal information, the original sentence, the date of parole, conditions imposed (such as reporting to a parole officer, restrictions on travel, or mandatory counseling), and any violations or compliance issues during the parole period. Managed by the New Mexico Parole Board and correctional facilities, these records are used to monitor the parolee's integration into the community and ensure adherence to the terms of parole. Access to parole records may be restricted to protect privacy and is generally available to authorized law enforcement agencies and legal entities.
Probation Records
In New Mexico, probation records are official documents that track the status and compliance of individuals placed on probation instead of, or in addition to, serving time in prison. These records typically include the probationer's personal details, the nature of the original offense, the terms of the probation (such as duration, supervision requirements, and any special conditions like community service or rehabilitation programs), and records of compliance or violations. Managed by probation offices and the courts, these records are essential for monitoring an individual's progress and ensuring adherence to the terms of probation. Access to probation records is usually restricted to authorized personnel to protect the individual's privacy, though certain aspects may be accessible to law enforcement and legal entities as needed.
Warrant Search
In New Mexico, a warrant search involves checking for outstanding warrants, which are legal documents issued by a judge or magistrate authorizing law enforcement to perform actions such as arrests or searches. These searches can be conducted through various means, including online databases provided by local law enforcement agencies or the New Mexico Courts. Warrant searches typically require the name of the individual in question. It's important to note that while some warrant information might be publicly accessible, access can be limited due to privacy and legal considerations. Individuals or entities conducting warrant searches often include law enforcement, legal professionals, and sometimes private citizens, particularly in matters of personal or public safety.
Inmate And Jail Records
In New Mexico, inmate and jail records pertain to individuals incarcerated in state and local correctional facilities. These records provide information such as the inmate's personal details (name, date of birth, physical characteristics), the offense for which they are incarcerated, incarceration date, expected release date, and the location of the facility where they are being held. Managed by the New Mexico Corrections Department and individual county jails, these records are used for both administrative purposes and public information. Access to specific inmate and jail records can vary, with some information available to the public, while more sensitive details are restricted to authorized personnel for security and privacy reasons.
What you can find
In New Mexico, inmate and jail records typically contain a variety of information related to individuals who are incarcerated. These records generally include:
- Personal Information: This includes the inmate’s name, date of birth, and sometimes physical characteristics like height, weight, hair and eye color, and any distinguishing marks or tattoos.
- Incarceration Details: Details about the inmate’s current confinement such as the location of the jail or prison, booking number, and the housing unit or cell number.
- Offense Information: Information about the crime(s) for which the inmate is incarcerated, including the nature of the offense, the date of the offense, and the court case number.
- Sentence Information: Details about the sentence imposed, such as the length of the sentence, any fines or restitution ordered, and the sentencing date.
- Custody Status: Current status of the inmate, including whether they are in the general population, solitary confinement, or a specific program within the correctional facility.
- Photograph: A mugshot or current photograph of the inmate.
- Release Date: The projected release date, if applicable.
- Parole or Probation Information: Information on any parole eligibility or probation details, if relevant.
How to Conduct an Inmate Lookup in New Mexico
Conducting an inmate lookup in New Mexico involves several steps to find information about individuals incarcerated in state or local correctional facilities. Here’s a guide on how to proceed:
- Identify the Correct Facility: Determine whether the inmate is in a state prison or a local county jail. New Mexico state prisons house individuals convicted of more serious crimes, while local jails typically hold those awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences.
- Use Online Search Tools:
- For state prisons, visit the New Mexico Corrections Department website. They often provide an inmate locator or search tool where you can enter the name or inmate ID to find information.
- For county jails, visit the specific county jail’s website. Each county may have its own inmate search system. If you’re unsure about the county, you might need to check several county jail websites.
- Gather Necessary Information: To conduct the search, you’ll typically need the inmate’s full name and, if possible, other identifying information like date of birth or inmate ID number. This helps in accurately locating the inmate’s records.
- Contact the Facility Directly: If online tools are not available or you’re unable to find the inmate, you can directly contact the prison or jail. They can provide information over the phone or guide you on how to access the records.
- Visit the Facility: In some cases, especially for more detailed information, you might need to visit the correctional facility in person. Be sure to check visiting hours and any necessary protocols before your visit.
- Consider Privacy Laws: Be aware that while basic information about inmates is usually public, certain personal details may be restricted under privacy laws.
- Third-Party Services: There are also third-party websites that aggregate inmate information from various sources. However, ensure these sources are reliable and up-to-date.
Jails & Prisons in New Mexico
State Prisons:
Can I look up mugshots in New Mexico?
Yes, you can look up mugshots in New Mexico. To do so, you can typically access them by contacting the police department or sheriff’s office that made the arrest. Many law enforcement agencies have websites where mugshots are available, or you can request them directly.
Some county jails or state prisons in New Mexico have online inmate search tools that include mugshots. For example, the New Mexico Corrections Department may provide this information for state prison inmates.
If a case has gone to court, mugshots might be included in the court files. Accessing these would require a request to the relevant court.
New Mexico Arrest Records
New Mexico arrest records are official documents that detail an individual’s history of being apprehended by law enforcement.
What Do These Records Contain:
New Mexico arrest records typically contain the following information:
- Personal Information: This includes the individual’s full name, date of birth, and possibly other identifying details like physical descriptions (height, weight, hair and eye color), and sometimes race or ethnicity.
- Arrest Details: The records detail the date, time, and location of the arrest, as well as the law enforcement agency that conducted the arrest.
- Charges: Information about the specific charges or allegations leading to the arrest.
- Mugshots and Fingerprints: Most arrest records include mugshots and fingerprints of the arrested individual.
- Bail/Bond Information: If applicable, details about the bail amount or bond posted.
- Case Information: Initial information about any court case that may result from the arrest, including case number and court jurisdiction, if available.
- Disposition: Early records of the case’s outcome, such as whether charges were dropped, the individual was released without charge, or if the case was referred to a court.
New Mexico Property and Asset Records Online
Finding property and asset records online in New Mexico involves several steps, mostly focused on accessing county-level databases where these records are maintained. Here’s how you can proceed:
- Identify the Relevant County: Property and asset records are typically managed at the county level. Determine the county where the property is located.
- Visit the County Assessor’s Website: Each county in New Mexico has an Assessor’s Office responsible for property records. These offices often have online databases where you can search for property information. You can find details like property owner, assessed value, property description, and tax information.
- Check the County Clerk’s Website: For more detailed records, such as deeds, liens, and mortgages, visit the County Clerk’s website for the respective county. These sites usually provide access to public records databases where you can search using the property address or owner’s name.
- Use Online Mapping Services: Some counties may offer GIS (Geographic Information System) mapping tools that provide property information in a map format, making it easier to locate and understand property boundaries and related data.
- Consider Third-Party Websites: Various third-party websites aggregate property and asset records from multiple sources. While they can be convenient, ensure they are reputable and up-to-date.
Search Statewide Resources: For broader searches or resources not available at the county level, the New Mexico Department of Taxation and Revenue might offer additional tools or links to property information.
Unclaimed Properties in New Mexico
In New Mexico, unclaimed property refers to financial assets that have been forgotten or left inactive for an extended period, typically because the owner has lost track of them or is unaware of their existence. The state’s Unclaimed Property Office, which is a part of the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department, is responsible for managing and returning these assets to their rightful owners.
Driving Records
In New Mexico, driving records, also known as motor vehicle records (MVRs), are official documents maintained by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). These records provide a detailed history of an individual’s driving background.
Civil Driving Infractions
In New Mexico, civil driving infractions are non-criminal traffic offenses that typically result in fines and points on a driver’s license but do not carry jail time. These infractions are considered less severe than criminal traffic violations like DUI (Driving Under the Influence). Common civil driving infractions in New Mexico include:
- Speeding: Driving over the posted speed limit.
- Failure to Stop: Not stopping at a stop sign or red light.
- Seat Belt Violations: Not wearing a seatbelt while the vehicle is in motion.
- Improper Lane Changes: Changing lanes without signaling or in an unsafe manner.
- Illegal U-Turns: Making U-turns where they are prohibited.
- Expired Registration: Driving with an expired vehicle registration.
- Parking Violations: Parking in a no-parking zone, an expired meter, or in a handicapped spot without proper authorization.
- Equipment Violations: Operating a vehicle with faulty equipment, such as broken taillights, headlights, or turn signals.
New Mexico White Pages - Access to Individuals, Addresses, and Additional Unofficial Details
Address Search
In New Mexico, an address search is commonly conducted for real estate inquiries, location verification, zoning research, or demographic analysis. To perform an address search, one can start with the county assessor’s office where the property is located. The assessor’s office typically provides property and tax information, including ownership details, property valuations, and tax history.
Many counties in New Mexico offer online databases where you can enter an address to retrieve this information. Additionally, GIS (Geographic Information Systems) mapping tools available on some county websites can provide a visual representation of the property and surrounding area, along with zoning and land-use information.
For more detailed historical data or specific documents like deeds or liens, the County Clerk’s office is another valuable resource, offering access to public records databases.
People Search
Conducting a people search in New Mexico involves using various resources to locate information about an individual. Start with online public records databases, which can include voter registration, property records, and court records. The New Mexico Department of Health’s Vital Records office can be a resource for accessing certain public records, albeit with some privacy restrictions. Social media platforms and online search engines can also provide leads, especially for current contact information or employment details. For more official and detailed searches, background check services (often requiring a fee) can access a wider array of public and private databases. It’s important to respect privacy laws and regulations when conducting a people search, ensuring that any personal information obtained is used responsibly and ethically.
Can I Search By a Phone Number and Identify The Owner?
Yes, you can search by a phone number to identify the owner, commonly known as a reverse phone lookup. These services provide data associated with phone numbers, potentially including names, addresses, and sometimes even photos or social media accounts. There are diverse methods to perform a reverse phone number search, such as through associated names or addresses
License Plate Lookup in New Mexico
In New Mexico, conducting a license plate lookup involves a few specific steps and considerations. The New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) maintains vehicle registration and license plate information.
However, access to this data is restricted due to privacy laws. Individuals seeking to perform a license plate lookup for purposes such as accident investigation, driver safety, or vehicle theft can request this information through the MVD, but they must have a legitimate reason and may need to provide proof of their need for the information.
For general public inquiries, access is typically not granted without a valid reason that aligns with the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA). Alternatively, for less sensitive inquiries, such as checking for recalls or generic vehicle information, online services and third-party websites offer license plate lookups.
These services can provide vehicle make, model, year, and sometimes recall information, but they do not give access to personal owner information. It’s important to use these services responsibly and be aware of their limitations in terms of privacy and data accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who and why can request public records?
In New Mexico, under the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA), anyone can request public records. There are no residency requirements or stipulations that the requester must state the reason for the request. This means that members of the public, journalists, researchers, and others have the right to access public records maintained by state and local government entities. The IPRA is designed to ensure transparency and openness in government, allowing for scrutiny and public awareness of government operations. However, while the act provides broad access, it also outlines specific exemptions where certain records may be withheld for reasons such as privacy, security, or confidentiality.
Are there fees associated with requesting public records?
Yes, there can be fees associated with requesting public records in New Mexico. Under the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA), while the act itself does not mandate a fee for the inspection of public records, agencies are allowed to charge reasonable fees for copying documents. However, the law specifies that these fees should not exceed the actual costs associated with making the copies.
Are public records Free to access?
In New Mexico, under the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA), the public has the right to inspect public records, and this inspection is generally free of charge. However, while inspecting records is free, there may be fees associated with obtaining copies of these records.
What is the response time for public records requests?
Under the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA) in New Mexico, government agencies are required to respond to public records requests within 15 calendar days after receiving the request. This response doesn’t necessarily mean the records must be provided within this timeframe, but the agency must acknowledge the request and indicate when the records will be available or if there are any issues or exceptions that may delay or prevent the release of the requested records.
Can my request be rejected?
Yes, your request for public records in New Mexico can be rejected, but the reasons for rejection must be in compliance with the stipulations of the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA).
