Hunter/Guide/Outfitter – Administrative Revocation: Don’t miss that letter.

Many hunters, guides and outfitters who receive citations from the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish do not realize that any sort of plea, even a deferred, can result in the revocation of all of their privileges (including hunting, fishing, guiding and outfitting) for a period of three years on a first offense. The revocation rules which can be found here , unfortunately define a conviction as, ” means any adjudication of guilt; plea of guilty or nolo contendere accepted by the court; or payment of a fine, court cost, court order or penalty assessment; or forfeiture of collateral; regardless of whether sentencing or imposition of sentencing has been deferred or suspended. ” In other words, Game and Fish considers any deferred sentence given to be a conviction for terms of a potential administrative action. This seems to be a broad incorrect usage of a deferred sentence. It many cases a deferred sentence results in all charges being dismissed so an administrative revocation comes as a surprise to a party that received a deferred sentence. While administrative hearings can be won, it is much easier to guard against this administrative revocation by fighting the initial. If you have a received a citation from Game and Fish do not try and solve this issue by yourself. Call an experienced attorney who fights for you and keeping your privileges intact. Call for a free consultation at 505-247-9500.