Public Records Attorney in Albuquerque, New Mexico
New Mexico law guarantees the people the right to inspect public records. In general, this means that unless a specific legal exception applies, state and local government agencies must make their records available to anyone who asks to see them.
Holding Government Accountable Through Transparency
At Stalter Law, we believe that access to public records is a fundamental right in a democracy. Through my extensive experience with the New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA), I help clients obtain the information they need to make informed decisions, advocate for their communities, and hold government accountable.
Why Public Records Matter
In my experience representing clients ranging from community activists to concerned citizens to prisoners, I've seen firsthand how public records access can make a profound difference:
Enable meaningful participation in democracy - When governmental decisions are being made, citizens need complete information to participate effectively in the process
Uncover critical evidence - Whether evaluating a potential case or investigating government activities, public records often reveal information that would otherwise remain hidden
Create systemic change - Strategic IPRA litigation can transform how agencies handle records requests, benefiting everyone who seeks information
As I learned while investigating IPRA cases, government transparency is not just a policy preference—it's the core mission of every public agency. Yet too often, agencies treat records access as an afterthought or annoyance rather than an essential function.
My Approach to IPRA Cases
Having worked within government as a prosecutor and later as General Counsel for the Attorney General's Office, I understand IPRA from both sides. My approach to public records cases is practical and results-oriented:
Strategic records requests - I craft precise, targeted requests designed to obtain the specific information my clients need
Persistent follow-up - I know that persistence is key, especially with agencies that have historically been slow to respond
Knowledge of agency practices - My experience has given me insight into how different agencies organize and maintain their records
Litigation when necessary - When agencies fail to comply with their legal obligations, I don't hesitate to take them to court
Success Stories
My work has created real change in how New Mexico agencies handle public records:
Secured a judgment against the New Mexico Parole Board that transformed their records management practices after they repeatedly failed to respond to legitimate requests
Helped the New Mexico Corrections Department improve their records request systems, leading to the implementation of modern request-tracking software
Obtained critical documents for community advocates opposing annexation plans, giving them the information needed to participate meaningfully in public hearings
Assisted prisoners in accessing records that had been improperly withheld, supporting their efforts to seek justice
The Stalter Law Difference
What sets my public records practice apart:
Landmark case experience - I understand the nuances of IPRA law, including the implications of key cases like Britton v. Office of Attorney General, which established that agencies cannot provide incomplete responses and claim compliance
Practical solutions - I don't just file lawsuits; I help clients get what they need in the most efficient way possible
Commitment to transparency - I believe that government accountability begins with access to information, and I'm dedicated to making that access a reality for my clients
When to Seek Help
Consider contacting me about a public records issue if:
You've submitted requests that have been ignored or inadequately answered
You need guidance on crafting effective requests for specific types of records
You've received denials that seem improper or unexplained
You're facing excessive fees or unreasonable delays
You believe an agency is deliberately stonewalling your legitimate request
Let's Work Together
Whether you're an individual seeking specific information, a journalist investigating an important story, or an organization advocating for change, I can help you navigate New Mexico's public records laws effectively.
Contact me today to discuss how we can use public records laws to get the information you need.