New Mexico Supreme Court Holds ChatGPT‑Using Lawyer in Contempt for Fabricated Testimony

The New Mexico Supreme Court found criminal‑defense attorney Stephen Aarons in direct contempt after he filed a brief that contained false testimony from entirely fabricated witnesses, including fake police statements. Aarons admitted he did not verify the factual claims or legal authority in the AI‑generated brief before signing and filing it, and he failed to inform his client of the errors. The court noted his lack of remorse and concern for the client, Oscar Renee Sandoval, whose murder conviction was being appealed. Aarons, a 40‑year veteran of the New Mexico bar, was hired by Sandoval’s family to challenge the life‑sentence imposed in February 2025. The Supreme Court referred Aarons to the state disciplinary board for further proceedings.