New Mexico Statutes 32A-4-30. Attorney fees
The court may order the department to pay attorney fees for the child’s guardian ad litem or attorney if:
Terms Used In New Mexico Statutes 32A-4-30
- Guardian: A person legally empowered and charged with the duty of taking care of and managing the property of another person who because of age, intellect, or health, is incapable of managing his (her) own affairs.
A. the child is in the legal custody of the department;
B. the child’s guardian ad litem or the child, through the child’s attorney:
(1) requests in writing that the department move for the termination of parental rights;
(2) gives the department written notice that if the department does not move for termination of parental rights, the guardian ad litem or the child, through the child’s attorney, intends to move for the termination of parental rights and seek an award of attorney fees;
(3) successfully moves for the termination of parental rights; and
(4) applies to the court for an award of attorney fees; and
C. the department refuses to litigate the motion for the termination of parental rights or fails to act in a timely manner.