Supreme Court halts eviction orders in landlord-tenant cases

SANTA FE (KSMXD) – The state Supreme Court has ordered a temporary halt on evictions for the inability to pay rent during the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Under the Court’s order, judges will stay the execution of writs of restitution that property owners can obtain and give to law enforcement to force the removal of a tenant. Tenants will need to provide the court with evidence of their current inability to pay their rent, per the press release.

“New Mexicans are struggling financially as workplaces close because of the public health emergency,” said Chief Justice Judith K. Nakamura. “The Court’s order will provide temporary relief for families and individuals facing the possibility of losing their housing at a time when the governor and public health officials have ordered New Mexicans to remain at home to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”