NMSC News:
TAOS — People with outstanding bench warrants from any magistrate court in New Mexico can safely surrender 1:30-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 29 and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30 at the Taos County Magistrate Court, 105 Albright St., Suite M in Taos.
“Safe Surrender events are a great way for people throughout the state to come to the courthouse to work on a solution,” said Director Artie Pepin of the Administrative Office of the Courts. “This year alone, judges have seen more than 150 people and a total of 689 warrants have been cancelled during these events.”
The safe surrender event provides anyone with outstanding warrants an opportunity to avoid jail and other consequences by appearing before a judge. At the time of surrender, anyone who appears voluntarily will receive favorable consideration when requesting a new court date, payment plan, or any other option required to comply with the court order.
During July’s San Juan Safe Surrender event, warrants were resolved in 392 cases.
A judge issues a bench warrant when a defendant violates requirements imposed by a court, such as appearing at hearings scheduled in a case. If you are unsure whether you have an outstanding bench warrant, call the toll-free warrant hotline at 855.268.7804 or check online case lookup at www.nmcourts.gov.
