New Mexico Criminal Record Expungement
An old criminal case can quietly cost you a job, an apartment, a license, or a peace of mind you've earned. New Mexico law now lets eligible records be sealed — and most people don't know whether they qualify. Our 2-minute quiz tells you in plain English.
Why It Matters
Long after the case is over, the record keeps showing up on background checks. Job applications denied. Apartment leases rejected. Professional licenses out of reach. Even a dismissed charge — one where you were never convicted — can keep blocking opportunities for years.
New Mexico's Criminal Record Expungement Act (NMSA § 29-3A) gives people a real path forward. For cases that ended without a conviction, the court shall grant expungement if the basic requirements are met. For cases that ended in a conviction, expungement is harder but still possible for many offenses. The first step in either case is the same: figuring out where you actually stand.
Free Tool
The quiz walks through the same eight questions an attorney would ask in an initial consultation — pending charges, how the case ended, time elapsed, fines paid, supervision complete. Based on your answers, you get a clear yes, no, or "needs a closer look," with a step-by-step list of what to do next.
Color-coded eligibility outcome (likely qualifies / not yet / blocked / needs review), the specific NM statute that applies to your case, and what to do next. No account, no email required to see your results.
"Do you currently have any pending criminal charges?"
Two Paths Under NMSA § 29-3A
New Mexico's expungement law creates two separate processes. Which one applies depends on how the original case ended.
NMSA § 29-3A-4
For cases that ended in dismissal, acquittal, nolle prosequi, pre-prosecution diversion, conditional discharge, or a Motor Vehicle Code deferred sentence.
NMSA § 29-3A-5
For cases that ended in a guilty plea, a guilty verdict, or a Criminal Code deferred sentence under § 31-20-3.
Flat-Fee Pricing
Most expungement work is handled on a flat fee so you know what the case costs before we start. Payment plans are available — as low as $250/month for qualifying clients.
Non-Conviction
Dismissals, acquittals, nolle prosequi, pre-prosecution diversion, conditional discharge, and Motor Vehicle Code deferred sentences under NMSA § 29-3A-4.
Payment plans as low as $250/month.
Book a consultationConviction
Guilty pleas, guilty verdicts, and Criminal Code deferred sentences under NMSA § 29-3A-5. Discretionary track with a mandatory hearing.
Payment plans as low as $250/month.
Book a consultationIdentity Theft
Cases where someone else's actions ended up on your record. Scope and work vary case-by-case, so these matters are handled hourly.
Rate and estimate provided after a free 15-minute call.
Book a consultationQuoted fees are starting prices for typical matters and do not include the $132 district-court filing fee or third-party costs. Complex cases (multiple counties, multiple counts, older records requiring extensive research) may require additional fees, quoted in writing before any work begins.
From Clients
Johnn was an absolute lifesaver. I've worked with multiple attorneys over the years, and Johnn set the standard for the rest of them. A standard that has yet to be met. He does not shame a client for wanting to be involved in their own legal process, and gently reminds them of his own experience. As he put it to me, he is a counselor-at-law. I think very highly of him over a full decade later, enough to write this review and tell all prospecting clients: Johnny O. is the best lawyer you will ever retain.
Former client
John has been an absolute help. He stuck with my family and I as we navigated a case. He was very attentive and gave realistic advice and expectations. The outcome was us winning. As a veteran I would recommend his office to help you out. He has helped us get peace from our situation. Thank you so much!!
Veteran client
Note: Testimonials reflect the experience of individual clients. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Names abbreviated or changed to protect client privacy.
Who You're Working With
Founder of Land of Enchantment Law. Eleven years as an Assistant District Attorney in New Mexico (2010–2021), including senior leadership as Chief Deputy and Deputy DA. Now using that prosecutor's perspective on behalf of clients, including current service as Chair of the New Mexico Bar Association Historical Committee.
Knowing how the State builds a case is the same skill set, applied in reverse. That's the value Johnn brings to every expungement petition, every defense matter, and every consultation.
The quiz takes 2 minutes. The phone call is free and takes 15. Either way, you'll know exactly where you stand.