FAQ – All Applicants
All Applicants
Frequently Asked Questions
Following are some FAQs that apply to every application type. Please see each application type’s individual FAQ pages for application-specific information.
Who is my information shared with?
The Board will provide authorized information only to the NCBE, the New Mexico State Bar, the New Mexico Disciplinary Board, and the University of New Mexico School of Law for graduates of that law school. Additionally, the Executive Director is authorized to provide an applicant file to another jurisdiction or to a designee of the applicant upon receipt of an appropriate notarized release.
Can you review my circumstances and tell me if I can or should apply?
It is the policy of the Board not to issue advisory opinions on the admissibility of any applicant. The Board will only make a determination after reviewing the applicant’s entire file and taking any other further action it deems necessary. Each applicant must read the Rules Governing Admission to ensure their own eligibility.
How long will my application stay open?
Your application will remain open for twelve (12) months from the date of filing. You may seek a six (6) month extension for good cause, but only if requested prior to the expiration date.
Am I eligible for admission if I have pending criminal charges?
All applicants with pending criminal charges are allowed to apply for admission and, if required, sit for the bar examination. However, all pending criminal charges will be reviewed by the character and fitness committee and could ultimately result in a denial of the application based on character and fitness grounds. The New Mexico Disciplinary Board may also suspend an attorney if convicted.
Am I eligible for admission if I am on probation or parole?
All applicants on probation are allowed to apply for admission and, if required, sit for the bar examination. However, all criminal convictions and terms of probation/parole will be reviewed by the character and fitness committee and could ultimately result in a denial of the application based on character and fitness grounds. The New Mexico Disciplinary Board may suspend an attorney who is on probation or parole.
What happens if I am not sworn-in or sign the Roll of Attorneys?
If you are not sworn-in and sign the Roll of Attorneys within six months from the date we recommend your admission to the New Mexico Supreme Court, your application will be deemed abandoned.
Application Specific FAQ
These FAQ pages contain information for each individual application type: