Opinion ID: 2602376
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 9

Heading: Whether Cumulative Error Requires Reversal of Defendant's Convictions

Text: {43} Defendant argues that, when considered together, the errors alleged result in cumulative error. Under the cumulative error doctrine, we consider whether the cumulative effect of the errors was so prejudicial that Defendant was deprived of a fair trial. See Woodward, 121 N.M. at 12, 908 P.2d at 242. When the impact of the cumulative errors is so prejudicial as to deprive an accused of his fundamental right to a fair trial, we are obliged to reverse the conviction. State v. Martin, 101 N.M. 595, 601, 686 P.2d 937, 943 (1984). Viewing the errors together, Defendant was altogether prevented from presenting a meaningful defense, and this was greatly prejudicial to Defendant. Accordingly, we reverse on this issue.