About the Office
Our Mission
Our Vision
What We Do
Under the leadership of Attorney General Raúl Torrez, the New Mexico Department of Justice serves as the chief legal authority for the state of New Mexico. The NMDOJ works to ensure that the rule of law is upheld, and the rights of all citizens are protected.
The NMDOJ works to protect every community in New Mexico and empower vulnerable populations. We believe in giving a voice to those who may feel unheard, an effort that ensures everyone’s rights are recognized and respected.
We are dedicated to prosecuting dangerous and violent criminals, particularly those who target children and the most vulnerable members of our society. Our mission is not only focused on bringing these offenders to justice, but to also create a safer community for the citizens of New Mexico.
Our commitment to public safety extends to advocating for policies that enhance law enforcement agencies’ abilities to keep our streets safe, fostering collaboration and providing resources to make their work more effective.
The NMDOJ is highly focused on consumer protection, working to ensure residents are safe from deceptive and fraudulent practices. We believe that every consumer has the right to be treated fairly and to make informed decisions without fear of deception.
In our pursuit of an open and accountable governance, the NMDOJ actively works to stop public corruption at all levels. We are committed to the interest of the people, and work to maintain the integrity of our democratic institutions.
Our responsibility also encompasses preserving New Mexico’s rich cultural history and natural beauty. From historical landmarks to our water, land, and air, recognizing the importance of these resources to our state’s well-being and identity, the NMDOJ takes decisive action to protect our state for current and future generations.
The New Mexico Department of Justice upholds the United States and New Mexico Constitution, ensuring the principals that form the foundation of our democratic society is protected, safeguarding individual freedoms and equal justice under the law.
Attorney General Raúl Torrez and the New Mexico Department of Justice serve as an advocate, protector, and guardian for the people of New Mexico. Our goal is to ensure a safer, fairer, and more prosperous state for every citizen in every community.
Authority
The New Mexico Department of Justice is one of seven independently elected statewide offices in New Mexico. The NMDOJ was established by the State Constitution in 1912.
The Attorney General and the Department of Justice, collectively referred to as the New Mexico Department of Justice, represent and defend the legal interests and sovereignty of the people of the State of New Mexico. The NMDOJ exercises the responsibilities delegated by the New Mexico Constitution, statutes enacted by the New Mexico Legislature, and the common law.
The Attorney General has primary authority for enforcement of consumer protection and antitrust laws, prosecution of criminal appeals and some complex white-collar crimes, training and certification of peace officers, and most natural resource and environmental matters. Additionally, the New Mexico Department of Justice works concurrently with New Mexico’s 13 district attorneys and other local, state and federal law enforcement authorities to carry out its criminal justice responsibilities and activities.
The Attorney General is also the chief legal counsel and advisor to the executive branch of state government including all executive departments and to the many state agencies, boards, and commissions. The NMDOJ delivers its responsibilities within an approximately $18-22 million budget appropriation through its team of approximately 200 employees.
