What is the statute of limitations for murder in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, there is no statute of limitations for murder, meaning that a person can be prosecuted for this crime at any time, regardless of how much time has elapsed since the offense occurred. This reflects the seriousness with which murder is treated in the legal system, as it is one of the most severe crimes with significant consequences, including the potential for life imprisonment or even the death penalty in some jurisdictions.

Having no statute of limitations allows law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue justice for victims and their families without the constraints of a time limit, ensuring that those who commit such serious crimes can still be held accountable regardless of when the crime was committed. Other time frames, like those for lesser offenses, provide limits within which prosecution must occur—typically reflecting a societal interest in resolving cases in a timely fashion and the practical challenges of gathering evidence over long periods.