31-15-4: Chief public defender; appointment; qualifications; removal.

A. The chief shall be the administrative head of the department. The commission shall appoint a chief for a term of four years by approval of two-thirds of its members. The commission may reappoint a chief for subsequent terms. A vacancy in the office of the chief shall be filled by appointment by the commission.

B. The commission shall appoint as chief only a person with the following qualifications:

(1) an attorney licensed to practice law in New Mexico or who will be so licensed within one year of appointment;

(2) an attorney whose practice of law has been active for at least five years immediately preceding the date of this appointment;

(3) an attorney whose practice of law has included a minimum of five years' experience in defense of persons accused of crime; and

(4) an attorney who has clearly demonstrated management or executive experience.

C. The chief may be removed by the commission; provided, however, that no removal shall be made without notice of hearing and an opportunity to be heard having been first given to the chief.