SANTA FE, N.M. — The New Mexico Supreme Court will travel to Farmington next month as part of its annual Rule of Law Program, an initiative designed to help students better understand the state’s judicial system and the role of courts in resolving legal disputes.
On August 28, the Court will hear oral arguments in a civil case at San Juan College’s Henderson Fine Arts Center. This marks the fifth year of the program, which brings appellate court proceedings to communities across the state, giving students a firsthand look at how the legal system functions.
Students are invited to attend the hearing in person or watch a live stream on the Court’s YouTube channel. A Spanish-language translation will also be available.
“Students can gain a better understanding of the rule of law in our society by watching the Court perform its duty to interpret the law and apply it to a set of facts presented in a case,” said Chief Justice David K. Thomson.
The case being heard, Butterworth v. Jackson (S-1-SC-40623), involves a legal claim known as alienation of affections — a civil tort that allows a person to sue someone they believe is responsible for the breakdown of their marriage. The Court will consider whether this claim remains valid under New Mexico law, given evolving societal views on marriage and personal relationships.
After the hearing, the justices plan to speak with students in attendance. The Supreme Court Law Library has also prepared educational materials for teachers and students, which are available online.
