Can I make my Mother pay for my medical expenses in New Mexico?
Full Question:
I (14 years old) live with my mom in New Mexico. Recently I found out that I have cancer. My dad died a year ago. So I am solely dependent on my mom for all my medical expenses. But my mom refuses to give a penny for my treatment and care. Can I file a complaint against her?
03/07/2017 |
Category: Minors ยป Support |
State: New Mexico |
#33508
Answer:
N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-6-2 says:
“Abandonment of dependent.
Abandonment of dependent consists of a person having the ability and means to provide for his spouse or minor child's support and abandoning or failing to provide for the support of such dependent.
Whoever commits abandonment of dependent is guilty of a fourth degree felony.”
“Sentencing authority; noncapital felonies; basic sentences and fines; parole authority; meritorious deductions.
If a person is convicted of a noncapital felony, the basic sentence of imprisonment is as follows:***
(13) for a fourth degree felony, eighteen months imprisonment.
***
E. The court may, in addition to the imposition of a basic sentence of imprisonment, impose a fine not to exceed:
***
(11) for a third or fourth degree felony, five thousand dollars ($ 5,000). . . ."