Courts

NMSC News:

SANTA FE — The Children, Youth & Families Department announced Friday that it will begin facilitating court-ordered family visits for children who are in foster care through video and telephone conferencing.

This is to comply with a directive from the New Mexico Supreme Court that suspends in-person visits for 30 days because of public health risks from COVID-19.

“Suspending in-person visitations is an incredibly difficult decision for the Department, as we know it will cause heartbreak for many children and families working towards reunification,” said” CYFD Secretary

NMSC News:

SANTA FE — Additional restrictions and public health precautions at New Mexico courthouses were ordered Monday by the State Supreme Court to guard against the spread of COVID-19.

“Courts recognize that extraordinary steps are necessary to protect public safety and the health of New Mexicans. Our courts must continue to provide essential services in the justice system,” Chief Justice Judith K. Nakamura said.

Under the Supreme Court’s order:

• While limits on “mass gatherings” established by the state public health order do not apply to courthouses because courts provide essential

NMSC News:

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Supreme Court (NMSC) Wednesday issued an order extending the payment of fines and fees for 30 days to help financially struggling New Mexicans and reduce the number of people who appear in courthouses to resolve traffic and other cases.

“We understand New Mexicans are facing financial difficulties during this public health emergency and providing more time to pay fines and fees will offer temporary relief,” Chief Justice Judith K. Nakamura said. 

The Supreme Court’s order will add 30 days to the payment deadline imposed by a magistrate, metropolitan, district

STATE NEWS:

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Supreme Court announced today measures by courts to minimize public health risks from coronavirus (COVID-19) for those who visit or work in courthouses.

Chief Justice Judith K. Nakamura said state courts – district, magistrate, metropolitan and appellate courts – will remain open for business to ensure courts fulfill their constitutional and statutory duties.

“The Judiciary’s responsibility to ensure constitutional protections are available to those who need  them has been especially important during difficult times