New Mexico Public Records Search

What Records Are Public In New Mexico?

New Mexico has a Public Records Law under the New Mexico Statutes Annotated Section 14-2-1 et seq. According to this law, all records held by state agencies, governments, counties, municipalities, and other public bodies are presumed to be public records and are accessible to the public. The following records are usually available to the public in New Mexico: 1. Personal records: These include birth and death records, marriage licenses and divorce decrees, and other types of personal records. However, access to some of these records may be restricted for privacy reasons. 2. Government records: These records include meeting minutes, budgets, financial statements, and other official documents of government agencies and entities. 3. Court records: Court records, including criminal and civil court records, are generally public records, subject to some exceptions for privacy, confidentiality, or sensitive information. 4. Criminal records: Criminal records, including arrest records and police reports, are generally available to the public with some limitations. 5. Business records: Business records, including corporate filings and other records of businesses, may also be available to the public. It is crucial to note that some records may be exempt from public access based on privacy, confidentiality, or security concerns. However, individuals can request access to records that are exempt from public access through a court order. In summary, New Mexico’s Public Records Law grants the public broad access to government records, with some reasonable exemptions. Individuals who need access to public records can make a formal request under the State’s Inspection of Public Records Act.

Who Do You Contact For Public Records In New Mexico?

In New Mexico, the agency responsible for managing and providing access to public records is the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. Specifically, the Records Management and Archives Department oversees the preservation and access to governmental records created by agencies at the state, county, and municipal levels. To request public records in New Mexico, you can visit the Records Management and Archives Department's website and complete an online request form. Alternatively, you may submit a written request to the department via mail or email. Before submitting a request for public records, it is important to note that some records may be exempt from disclosure under state and federal law. These exemptions may include, but are not limited to, personnel records, medical records, and trade secrets. Additionally, fees may be associated with processing and fulfilling public records requests. The Records Management and Archives Department can provide guidance on these issues and answer any questions you may have throughout the process.

How Do I Make A Change To Public Records In New Mexico?

If you need to make a change or correction to public records in New Mexico, the process varies depending on the type of record involved. Here is a general overview of the steps you may need to take: 1. Identify the agency: Find out which agency is responsible for maintaining the records in question. This could be a state or local government office, such as the county clerk's office, the New Mexico Secretary of State, the New Mexico State Records Center and Archives, or another agency. 2. Obtain the required forms: Once you know which agency to contact, you should look for the forms necessary to request a change or correction to public records. Some agencies may have their forms posted online, while others may require you to make a request in writing, by phone, or in person. 3. Provide documentation: Depending on the type of change you need to make, the agency may require you to provide documentation to support your request. This could include court orders, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or other legal documents. 4. Pay any required fees: Some agencies may charge a fee for processing requests to change public records. Make sure you know what any fees are and how to pay them before submitting your request. 5. Wait for a response: Once you have submitted your request and any required documentation, you will need to wait for the agency to process your request. The timeline for this varies depending on the agency and the complexity of your request. Overall, the process for changing public records in New Mexico requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to follow the necessary steps. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to the agency responsible for maintaining the records you need to change.

New Mexico State Resources

• Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham
• Secretary of State
• State Agencies
• State Personnel Directory
• Association of Counties
• Department of Social Services
• Department of Justice
• Department of Rehabilitation
• Judicial Branch
• Legislative Branch
• Census
• MVD

New Mexico State Charities