These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Know the rules
They may ask later, in the interview or after an offer.
Records that were cleared (expunged) don't have to be shared, and employers may not ask about them.
Treated unfairly? The Human Rights Bureau takes complaints:
NM Department of Workforce Solutions - Human Rights Bureau
File a discrimination complaint (job, housing, credit, public places)
800-566-9471
· Statewide phone/online; weekday business hours
2Find employers who hire people with records
Honest Jobs
Online fair-chance job board for people with records
Second Chance Business Coalition
List of large employers committed to hiring people with records
The job center is at 420 W. Broadway St., Silver City. Walk in Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm (may close 12-1). It is free.
NM Workforce Connection - Silver City (America's Job Center)
Job search, training and unemployment help
575-538-3737
420 W. Broadway St., Silver City · Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm (may close 12-1 for lunch)
3Give the employer a reason to say yes
A free bond protects the employer for the first 6 months. Ask the job center once they have an offer.
Federal Bonding Program (through NM Workforce Connection)
Free job-honesty bond to help people with records get hired
575-538-3737
420 W. Broadway St., Silver City · Job center weekday hours
Bring proof of what they have done since: certificates, classes, recovery, letters from a probation officer, pastor or past boss.
You can say"I made a mistake. I've done my time, and I'm ready to work."
Use the guide "Has a job interview coming up".
4Clear the record if they can
Many records can be cleared (expunged) in New Mexico. Then most employers can't see them.
New Mexico Courts - Criminal Record Expungement
Forms and information to expunge (clear) a criminal record
505-827-4850
· Statewide phone/online
Use the guide "Wants to clear (expunge) a criminal record".
5Re-entry help
New Mexico Reentry Center
Reentry navigation before and after release
505-389-5458
215 3rd St SW, Albuquerque · Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
NM Corrections Department - Probation and Parole District 6A
Adult probation and parole office
575-388-7312
1622 E. Pine St., Silver City · Weekdays
Just released? Use the guide "Just got out of jail or prison".
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City,
575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.