New Mexico § 30-2-7 - Justifiable homicide by citizen
Full text of New Mexico New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 30-2-7 — Justifiable homicide by citizen, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 30-2-7. Justifiable homicide by citizen
Homicide is justifiable when committed by any person in any of the following cases: A. when committed in the necessary defense of his life, his family or his property,
or in necessarily defending against any unlawful action directed against himself,
his wife or family; B. when committed in the lawful defense of himself or of another and when there is
a reasonable ground to believe a design exists to commit a felony or to do some great
personal injury against such person or another, and there is imminent danger that
the design will be accomplished; or C. when necessarily committed in attempting, by lawful ways and means, to apprehend
any person for any felony committed in his presence, or in lawfully suppressing any
riot, or in necessarily and lawfully keeping and preserving the peace.
Source: official New Mexico text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About New Mexico § 30-2-7
What does New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 30-2-7 cover?
Section 30-2-7 ("Justifiable homicide by citizen") is part of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated, the codified statutory law of New Mexico. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite New Mexico § 30-2-7?
A common citation format is "New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 30-2-7" (New Mexico). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of New Mexico law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Mexico official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Mexico attorney.
How does New Mexico § 30-2-7 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Mexico can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New Mexico.