The rise of digital surveillance raises concerns about privacy rights and civil liberties. Governments and private companies collect more data than ever before. This blog explores how digital surveillance impacts the rights of individuals. Increased government...
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Year: 2024
Is it illegal for police to access expunged or sealed records?
On behalf of the Law Office of Ryan J. Villa LLC, December 11, 2024 In New Mexico, sealed records are meant to be private, but police can sometimes access them. Knowing the rules about this access is key for officers and the public. New Mexico's legal framework New...
Freedom of speech vs. Hate speech: Where do you draw the line?
The First Amendment guarantees the right to free speech, but where do we draw the line? This complex issue intersects with hate speech, prompting discussions about legal protections and limitations. What constitutes hate speech? No specific law defines "hate speech"...
Protecting yourself in custody: Your rights against abuse
No one should live in fear of harm, even behind bars. Under the U.S. Constitution, inmates have protection against cruel and unusual punishment, especially from staff, officials or other inmates. Abuse of any kind – whether it's physical, sexual or emotional – is a...
Is my employer liable for ignoring sexual harassment at the workplace?
Sexual harassment is an unlawful discrimination, and anyone who engages in it is subject to the law under the New Mexico Human Rights Act. However, the offender does not wholly bear the brunt of the responsibility for any suffering an employee experiences. The...
3 things you should know about New Mexico’s ban-the-box law
Seeking employment after a conviction comes with many challenges. With some employers continuing to hold stigma related to criminal records, individuals looking for a new start face higher chances of rejection, which can then lead to higher rates of recidivism. To...
How can you prove the police used excessive force on you?
Police officers have a civil responsibility to only use the necessary amount of force to subdue a person committing a criminal act. Proving that police used excessive force requires evidence that the force used went beyond what was reasonable for the situation. The...
Can you sue abusive police and public officials in New Mexico?
For years, qualified immunity has emboldened some police officers and other government employees to abuse their authority. Immunity from lawsuits for violating a person’s civil rights encourages misconduct. New Mexico is among three states that have taken steps to end...
How can expungement help someone with a criminal record?
An arrest or conviction can severely affect a person's life long after they finish their sentence. Expunging a criminal record provides a possibility for a fresh start. It can remove barriers to key opportunities in education, jobs, and housing vital for a better...
Do you have a civil rights complaint about healthcare access?
Healthcare is a fundamental right, and everyone deserves equal access to medical services. However, some people in New Mexico may face barriers due to discrimination. Civil rights laws protect against such unfair treatment, ensuring that all individuals receive the...
