Legal Question in Appeals and Writs in New Mexico

Civil Suit

My father died in 2003 and the heirs are myself and my two sisters.The estate consists of a ranch in Otero Mesa and is still in probate. There was a will and everything was split between the three of us. The three of us could not agree and the fighting started. I ended up with criminal charges,spent 15 month in jail, had a criminal trial was sentenced to 4 1/2 years which was suspended and I was put on probation with credit for my time in jail. While I was in jail my sister served 4 civil suits against me. One of the civil suits went to court. I had to do it pro se as I have no money. My sister was awarded $3000.00 in medical reimbursement and $800,000 in punitive damages. I knew I would have to pay the medical and some amount of punitive damages, but I feel $800,000 is unrealistic. I am still trying to take care of my debts that piled up while I was in jail. The final judgement was filed in court on 3/26/08. Can I appeal this judgement pro se? Is it worth it since I have no legal knowledge? By law are they allowed to garnish my wages and what percent of my wages. Because of all this mess I have suffered mentally and have seen a doctor who prescribed antidepressant medication and I am seeking counseling.


Asked on 4/18/08, 12:40 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Re: Civil Suit

A punitive damages award almost 300 times as large as the compensatory around sounds illegal to me, especially if you are as impoverished as you describe. Based upon what you have said, I think you should appeal it.

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Answered on 4/18/08, 4:30 pm


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