New Mexico Constitution Article II - Bill of Rights
New Mexico Constitution – Article II: Bill of Rights – Summary
📜 Overview:
Article II of the New Mexico Constitution is the Bill of Rights, which guarantees a wide range of civil liberties and protections to all people within the state. While it closely resembles the U.S. Bill of Rights, it includes several provisions unique to New Mexico, including protections for crime victims and broader privacy and equality clauses.
🧭 Key Sections & Highlights:
Section 1 – Rights Inherent
All persons are born with natural, inherent, and inalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Section 4 – Freedom of Religion
Guarantees religious freedom and prohibits religious tests for public office.
Section 5 – Freedom of Speech and Press
Secures the right to free speech and press; people may speak, write, and publish freely.
Section 6 – Right to Bear Arms
Provides the right to keep and bear arms for security, defense, and lawful activities like hunting.
Section 10 – Search and Seizure
Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures; requires warrants based on probable cause.
Section 12 – Due Process
No person can be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.
Section 13 – Equal Protection
Guarantees equal protection under the law; prohibits discrimination.
Section 14 – Criminal Prosecution Rights
Ensures rights of the accused: a speedy and public trial, legal counsel, and ability to confront witnesses.
Section 15 – Self-Incrimination and Double Jeopardy
Protects against self-incrimination and being tried twice for the same offense.
Section 18 – No Discrimination
Strong anti-discrimination clause: no person shall be denied equal protection or discriminated against on account of race, religion, sex, or national origin.
Section 20 – Right to Vote
Guarantees the right to vote; no undue restrictions.
Section 24 – Victims' Rights
Protects the rights of crime victims, including being informed and present at key criminal justice proceedings.
✅ Purpose:
New Mexico’s Bill of Rights ensures broad protection of individual freedoms, combining traditional civil liberties with modern guarantees like anti-discrimination and victims' rights. It affirms the state’s commitment to justice, equality, and individual dignity.
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