A. The chief shall be the administrative head of the department. The commission shall appoint a chief for a term of four years by approval of two-thirds of its members. The commission may reappoint a chief for subsequent terms. A vacancy in the office of the chief shall be filled by appointment by the commission.
B. The commission shall appoint as chief only a person with the following qualifications:
(1) an attorney licensed to practice law in New Mexico or who will be so licensed within one year of appointment;
(2) an attorney whose practice of law has been active for at least five years immediately preceding the date of this appointment;
(3) an attorney whose practice of law has included a minimum of five years' experience in defense of persons accused of crime; and
(4) an attorney who has clearly demonstrated management or executive experience.
C. The chief may be removed by the commission; provided, however, that no removal shall be made without notice of hearing and an opportunity to be heard having been first given to the chief.