SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A proposed constitutional amendment on New Mexico ballots this year is seeking to bring the state court system a step closer toward streamlining the appeals process for some cases.
The proposal before voters is supported by the state judiciary. While it seeks to change an obscure segment of state law, supporters say it could result in significant savings in both cost and time for some of the state's busiest courts.
If approved, the amendment would allow lawmakers to review and make changes to strict parameters set in the state's constitution. Those current restrictions require cases that originate in probate and magistrate courts to first go to before a district court judge, rather than a panel of appeals court judges.
Cases that originate in probate and magistrate courts can stem from DWI, domestic violence and other types of charges.