New Mexico § 20-12-20 - Desertion
Full text of New Mexico New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 20-12-20 — Desertion, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-12-20. Desertion
A. Any member of the armed forces who: (1) without authority goes or remains absent from his unit, organization or place
of duty with intent to remain away therefrom permanently; (2) quits his unit, organization or place of duty with intent to avoid hazardous duty
or to shirk important service; or (3) without being regularly separated from one of the armed forces enlists or accepts
an appointment in the same or another one of the armed forces without fully disclosing
the fact that he has not been regularly separated, or enters any foreign armed service
except when authorized by the United States; is guilty of desertion. B. Any commissioned officer of the armed forces who, after tender of his resignation
and before notice of its acceptance, quits his post or proper duties without leave
and with intent to remain away therefrom permanently is guilty of desertion. C. Any person found guilty of desertion or attempt to desert shall be punished, if
the offense is committed in time of war, by death or other punishment as a court-martial
may direct, but if the desertion or attempt to desert occurs at any other time, by
such punishment, other than death, as a court-martial may direct.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Mexico § 20-12-20
What does New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 20-12-20 cover?
Section 20-12-20 ("Desertion") 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 § 20-12-20?
A common citation format is "New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 20-12-20" (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 § 20-12-20 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.