New Mexico Public Records & IPRA Authority

Holding government accountable through transparency

Access to public records is a fundamental right in a democracy. Through extensive experience with the New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA), Ken helps clients obtain the information they need to make informed decisions, advocate for their communities, and hold government accountable.

Why public records matter

Representing clients ranging from community activists to concerned citizens to prisoners, Ken has seen firsthand how public records access can make a profound difference:

• Enable meaningful participation in democracy — when governmental decisions are being made, citizens need complete information to participate effectively in the process.
• Uncover critical evidence — whether evaluating a potential case or investigating government activities, public records often reveal information that would otherwise remain hidden.
• Create systemic change — strategic IPRA litigation can transform how agencies handle records requests, benefiting everyone who seeks information.

A practical approach to IPRA cases

Having worked within government as a prosecutor and later as General Counsel for the Attorney General's Office, Ken understands IPRA from both sides. His approach is practical and results-oriented:

1. Strategic records requests — crafting precise, targeted requests designed to obtain the specific information clients need.
2. Persistent follow-up — persistence is key, especially with agencies that have historically been slow to respond.
3. Knowledge of agency practices — insight into how different agencies organize and maintain their records.
4. Litigation when necessary — when agencies fail to comply with their legal obligations, taking them to court.

Results

This work has created real change in how New Mexico agencies handle public records:

• Secured a judgment against the New Mexico Parole Board that transformed their records management practices after they repeatedly failed to respond to legitimate requests.
• Helped prompt the New Mexico Corrections Department to improve its records request systems, leading to the implementation of modern request-tracking software.
• Obtained critical documents for community advocates opposing annexation plans, giving them the information needed to participate meaningfully in public hearings.
• Assisted prisoners in accessing records that had been improperly withheld, supporting their efforts to seek justice.

When to seek help

Consider reaching out about a public records issue if:

• You've submitted requests that have been ignored or inadequately answered.
• You need guidance on crafting effective requests for specific types of records.
• You've received denials that seem improper or unexplained.
• You're facing excessive fees or unreasonable delays.
• You believe an agency is deliberately stonewalling your legitimate request.