In general, a misdemeanor case in New Mexico will proceed in the following fashion:
(1) Arrest;
(2) Arraignment (which can normally be waived and a plea of not guilty entered if you are represented by legal counsel);
(3) Discovery – defense counsel investigates the allegations, receives all information from the State which is to be used at trial or is material to the preparation of the defense, and both sides conduct witness interviews;
(4) Pre-trial conference and/or pre-trial motions;
(5) Trial or plea agreement;
(6) Pre-sentence report prepared for court (in some cases);
(7) Sentencing.
