New Mexico Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

What happens if a person fails to voluntarily surrender their firearm after being served a protective order in New Mexico?

1. Nothing

2. They may be fined

3. The firearm is automatically surrendered by law enforcement

4. They could be charged with a misdemeanor

The correct answer is: They could be charged with a misdemeanor

In the context of New Mexico law, if a person served with a protective order does not voluntarily surrender their firearm, they could indeed face legal consequences, which may include being charged with a misdemeanor. This is rooted in the state's approach to ensuring safety for individuals affected by domestic violence or threats. Failing to comply with a protective order that includes the surrender of firearms undermines the purpose of the order, which is to prevent potential harm. The law mandates that individuals who are subject to such orders must relinquish their firearms to mitigate the risk of violence. Therefore, it is important for those affected by a protective order to understand their obligations under the law, including the consequences for non-compliance. In contrast, while other options might sound plausible, they do not accurately reflect the legal ramifications established for non-compliance with a protective order regarding firearms in New Mexico.