Bernalillo County Court Records

What Is Bernalillo County Court Records

Court records in Bernalillo County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's jurisdiction. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of judicial activities maintained by various courts operating within Bernalillo County, New Mexico. Pursuant to the New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act, court records are defined as "all documents, papers, letters, books, maps, tapes, photographs, recordings and other materials, regardless of physical form or characteristics, that are used, created, received, maintained or held by or on behalf of any public body and relate to public business."

Court records typically include:

• Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
• Docket sheets chronicling case events and filings
• Court orders and judicial decisions
• Judgments and decrees
• Hearing and trial transcripts
• Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
• Sentencing records in criminal matters
• Marriage and divorce records
• Probate and estate documentation

These records differ from other public records such as property records (deeds, mortgages, liens), vital records (birth and death certificates), and administrative records maintained by county offices. Court records specifically document judicial proceedings and decisions.

In Bernalillo County, court records are maintained by several judicial bodies:

• Second Judicial District Court (handling major civil, criminal, family, and probate matters)
• Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court (handling misdemeanors, traffic violations, and small claims)
• New Mexico Court of Appeals (for cases appealed from district courts)
• New Mexico Supreme Court (the state's highest appellate court)

The maintenance and accessibility of these records are governed by New Mexico Statutes § 14-2-1, which establishes the right of citizens to inspect public records.

Are Court Records Public In Bernalillo County

Court records in Bernalillo County are generally accessible to the public under New Mexico law. The New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA) establishes that "every person has a right to inspect public records of this state," as codified in New Mexico Statutes § 14-2-1. Additionally, the New Mexico Constitution, Article VI, § 30 mandates that "all courts shall be open."

Publicly accessible court records typically include:

• Civil case files (with certain exceptions for sensitive information)
• Criminal case files (post-charging)
• Judgments, orders, and judicial decisions
• Docket sheets detailing case events and filings
• Court calendars and hearing schedules
• Marriage and divorce records
• Probate and estate records

However, certain records may be sealed or restricted from public access, including:

• Juvenile court records (protected under New Mexico Statutes § 32A-2-32)
• Adoption proceedings
• Mental health proceedings
• Cases involving minors as victims
• Records sealed by judicial order
• Grand jury proceedings
• Certain domestic violence and abuse cases

The New Mexico Supreme Court has established specific rules governing public access to court records through the New Mexico Rules of Judicial Administration, particularly Rule 1-079 for district courts and Rule 2-112 for metropolitan courts. These rules balance the presumption of openness with privacy concerns and the administration of justice.

It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico are governed by federal access policies rather than state law, though they remain generally accessible to the public through the federal PACER system.

How To Find Court Records in Bernalillo County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Bernalillo County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county currently maintains multiple systems for record retrieval, depending on the court and record type.

For in-person requests at the Second Judicial District Court:

• Visit the court clerk's office during regular business hours
• Complete a records request form specifying the case number, party names, or other identifying information
• Present valid photo identification
• Pay applicable copy fees ($0.50 per page for standard copies)

Second Judicial District Court
400 Lomas Blvd. NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 841-8400
Second Judicial District Court

For Metropolitan Court records:

• Visit the court's records division on the first floor
• Submit a written request form with case information
• Allow processing time for older or archived records
• Pay required fees for copies or certified documents

Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court
401 Lomas Blvd. NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 841-8151
Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court

For electronic access:

• Utilize the New Mexico Case Lookup portal for basic case information
• Register for re:SearchNM for more comprehensive document access
• Search the Bernalillo County Clerk's Records Portal for certain recorded documents

For records requests by mail:

• Submit a written request including case information, specific documents needed, and contact information
• Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
• Enclose payment for applicable fees (check or money order)
• Address to the appropriate court clerk's office

Pursuant to New Mexico Statutes § 14-2-8, custodians must respond to records requests within fifteen calendar days. Complex or voluminous requests may require additional time as permitted by statute.

How To Look Up Court Records in Bernalillo County Online?

Bernalillo County offers several digital platforms for accessing court records electronically. These systems provide varying levels of access to case information and documents.

The primary online resource is the New Mexico Case Lookup portal, which provides:

• Basic case information for district and metropolitan courts
• Party names and contact information
• Case type and filing date
• Judge assignment
• Hearing schedules
• Register of actions (docket entries)
• Case status and disposition

To use this system:

1. Navigate to the Case Lookup website
2. Select the court type (District or Metropolitan)
3. Enter search criteria (case number, party name, citation number)
4. Review the results list and select a case for detailed information

For more comprehensive document access, the re:SearchNM system is available:

• Registration is required (free for basic access)
• Provides access to filed documents in many cases
• Allows document downloads (fees may apply)
• Offers advanced search capabilities
• Includes records from all New Mexico state courts

The Second Judicial District Court maintains its own public records portal with:

• Court calendars
• Case information
• Forms and filing instructions
• Local rules and procedures

Similarly, the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court offers online access to:

• Traffic and misdemeanor case information
• Small claims records
• Court schedules
• Payment options for fines and fees

For property records, marriage licenses, and other documents filed with the county clerk, the Bernalillo County Clerk's Records Portal provides searchable access to recorded documents.

Users should note that certain sensitive or sealed records may not be available through online systems, and some documents may require in-person requests at the appropriate court clerk's office.

How To Search Bernalillo County Court Records for Free?

Bernalillo County residents and members of the public may access certain court records without payment, in accordance with the New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act. This statute guarantees the right to inspect public records without charge, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents.

Free access options include:

• In-person inspection at court clerk's offices during regular business hours
• Basic case information through the New Mexico Case Lookup portal
• Limited document access through re:SearchNM (registration required)
• Public access terminals located at courthouse facilities

At the Second Judicial District Court:

• Public terminals are available in the clerk's office
• No fee for viewing records on-site
• Staff assistance available for locating records
• Research may be conducted during regular business hours (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday)

At the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court:

• Self-service kiosks provide free case information access
• Records division staff can assist with locating files
• No charge for reviewing documents in person
• Electronic docket information available without fee

The New Mexico Judiciary website also provides free access to:

• Court calendars and schedules
• Judicial opinions and published decisions
• Court rules and procedures
• Standardized forms

Pursuant to New Mexico Statutes § 14-2-9, while inspection is free, reasonable fees may be charged for:

• Photocopies ($0.50 per page is standard)
• Certified copies (typically $1.00 per certification)
• Electronic document downloads through premium services
• Research assistance beyond standard record location

Individuals with limited financial resources may request fee waivers in certain circumstances by filing an affidavit of indigency with the court.

What's Included in a Bernalillo County Court Record?

Bernalillo County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type and court jurisdiction. These records typically include several standard components that document the progression and resolution of legal matters.

Civil case records generally contain:

• Complaint or petition initiating the action
• Summons and proof of service
• Defendant's answer or response
• Motions filed by either party
• Court orders and judicial rulings
• Exhibits and evidence admitted during proceedings
• Transcripts of hearings and trials
• Final judgment or dismissal
• Post-judgment filings and collection documents

Criminal case records typically include:

• Criminal complaint or indictment
• Arrest warrant or summons
• Booking information
• Arraignment documentation
• Bail and bond records
• Pre-trial motions and responses
• Plea agreements
• Trial exhibits and evidence
• Sentencing documents
• Probation reports
• Appeal notices

Family court records may contain:

• Divorce petitions and decrees
• Child custody and support orders
• Parenting plans
• Financial affidavits
• Property settlement agreements
• Domestic violence protection orders
• Adoption proceedings
• Paternity determinations

Probate court records generally include:

• Wills and testamentary documents
• Petitions for probate
• Inventories of estate assets
• Claims against estates
• Executor/administrator appointments
• Distribution orders
• Guardian and conservatorship documents

Each court record also contains a register of actions (docket sheet) that chronologically lists all events and filings in the case, serving as an index to the complete file. Court records may also include administrative documents such as scheduling notices, certificates of service, and correspondence between the court and parties.

The completeness and organization of court records are governed by the New Mexico Rules of Civil Procedure and New Mexico Rules of Criminal Procedure, which establish standards for document filing and record maintenance.

How Long Does Bernalillo County Keep Court Records?

Bernalillo County courts maintain records according to retention schedules established by the New Mexico Administrative Office of the Courts. These schedules, authorized under New Mexico Statutes § 14-3-6, specify minimum retention periods for various document types based on case category, significance, and legal requirements.

Standard retention periods for major case types include:

• Felony criminal cases:

  • Capital felonies and first-degree murder: Permanent retention
  • Other serious felonies: 25 years after final disposition
  • Lower-level felonies: 10 years after final disposition

• Misdemeanor criminal cases:

  • DWI/DUI cases: 10 years after final disposition
  • Domestic violence: 10 years after final disposition
  • Other misdemeanors: 5 years after final disposition
  • Traffic violations: 3 years after final disposition

• Civil cases:

  • Major civil litigation: 25 years after final judgment
  • Standard civil matters: 10 years after final judgment
  • Small claims: 7 years after final disposition

• Domestic relations cases:

  • Divorce with children: 25 years after youngest child reaches majority
  • Divorce without children: 10 years after final decree
  • Child support enforcement: Until youngest child reaches 21 years plus 3 years

• Probate cases:

  • Wills and estate administration: 25 years after closing
  • Guardianships/conservatorships: 10 years after termination

• Juvenile cases:

  • Delinquency matters: Until age 21, then sealed per statute
  • Abuse and neglect: 25 years after case closure

Certain records are designated for permanent retention, including:

• Landmark cases with historical significance
• Cases establishing important legal precedents
• Adoption records
• Mental health commitment proceedings
• Court docket books and indexes
• Naturalization records

The New Mexico Judicial Records Retention and Disposition Schedules provide detailed guidance for court administrators. After the prescribed retention period, records may be:

• Transferred to the New Mexico State Archives
• Converted to microfilm or digital format
• Destroyed according to approved procedures

Individuals seeking older records should note that cases exceeding retention periods may have been archived, with limited accessibility, or may no longer exist in the court's custody.

Types of Courts In Bernalillo County

Bernalillo County's judicial system consists of several courts with distinct jurisdictions and authority. These courts operate within New Mexico's unified court system, handling various case types according to their statutory authority.

The primary courts serving Bernalillo County include:

Second Judicial District Court
400 Lomas Blvd. NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 841-8400
Second Judicial District Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The District Court serves as the county's court of general jurisdiction, handling:

• Felony criminal cases
• Civil matters exceeding $10,000
• Domestic relations (divorce, custody, support)
• Juvenile matters
• Probate and estate administration
• Mental health proceedings
• Appeals from lower courts

Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court
401 Lomas Blvd. NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 841-8151
Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

The Metropolitan Court has limited jurisdiction over:

• Misdemeanor criminal cases
• DWI/DUI offenses
• Traffic violations
• Civil disputes up to $10,000
• Small claims up to $10,000
• Landlord-tenant matters
• Preliminary hearings in felony cases

New Mexico Court of Appeals
2211 Tucker Ave. NE
Albuquerque, NM 87106
(505) 767-6101
New Mexico Court of Appeals
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The Court of Appeals handles:

• Appeals from district courts in civil and non-capital criminal cases
• Appeals from administrative agencies
• Certiorari review of lower court decisions

New Mexico Supreme Court
237 Don Gaspar Ave.
Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 827-4860
New Mexico Supreme Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

As the state's highest court, the Supreme Court has:

• Final appellate jurisdiction
• Original jurisdiction in specific matters
• Administrative oversight of all state courts
• Regulation of the legal profession

The court hierarchy follows a structured appellate path, with cases typically originating in Metropolitan Court for minor matters or District Court for more significant cases. Appeals from Metropolitan Court decisions are heard by the District Court, while District Court decisions may be appealed to the Court of Appeals and ultimately to the Supreme Court in certain circumstances.

This multi-tiered system ensures appropriate forums for various legal matters while providing avenues for appellate review of judicial decisions.

What Types of Cases Do Bernalillo County Courts Hear?

Bernalillo County's court system adjudicates a diverse range of legal matters, with each court handling specific case types according to its statutory jurisdiction. The distribution of cases ensures appropriate judicial resources and expertise for various legal issues.

The Second Judicial District Court hears:

• Criminal Cases

  • Felony prosecutions (murder, robbery, serious assaults)
  • Drug trafficking and distribution offenses
  • White-collar crimes and complex fraud
  • Appeals from Metropolitan Court criminal cases

• Civil Litigation

  • Personal injury and tort claims exceeding $10,000
  • Contract disputes above $10,000
  • Real property matters and land disputes
  • Complex commercial litigation
  • Medical malpractice and product liability
  • Civil rights violations

• Family Law Matters

  • Divorce and legal separation
  • Child custody and visitation determinations
  • Child support establishment and enforcement
  • Spousal support (alimony)
  • Property division in marital dissolution
  • Domestic violence protection orders
  • Paternity establishment
  • Adoption proceedings
  • Guardianship of minors

• Probate and Estate Matters

  • Will validation and contests
  • Estate administration
  • Trust administration and disputes
  • Guardianships and conservatorships for incapacitated adults
  • Mental health commitments

The Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court handles:

• Criminal Matters

  • Misdemeanor offenses (punishable by up to one year imprisonment)
  • DWI/DUI cases
  • Domestic violence misdemeanors
  • Petty misdemeanors
  • Traffic violations
  • Preliminary hearings in felony cases
  • Issuance of search and arrest warrants

• Civil Cases

  • Disputes involving amounts up to $10,000
  • Small claims proceedings (up to $10,000)
  • Landlord-tenant disputes and evictions
  • Consumer debt collection
  • Contract disputes within jurisdictional limits
  • Property damage claims within monetary threshold

The New Mexico Court of Appeals reviews:

• Appeals from district court civil judgments
• Appeals from district court non-capital criminal convictions
• Administrative agency appeals
• Workers' compensation appeals
• Certiorari review of lower court decisions

The New Mexico Supreme Court considers:

• Appeals in capital punishment cases
• Appeals involving constitutional questions
• Certiorari review of Court of Appeals decisions
• Original proceedings in extraordinary writs
• Attorney discipline matters
• Judicial conduct cases

This distribution of case types ensures that matters are heard by courts with appropriate jurisdiction and expertise, while maintaining efficient administration of justice throughout Bernalillo County.

How To Find a Court Docket In Bernalillo County

Court dockets in Bernalillo County provide chronological listings of all actions taken in court cases, serving as essential indexes to case proceedings and scheduled events. Members of the public may access these dockets through several methods.

Online docket access is available through:

• New Mexico Case Lookup - The official statewide portal provides:

  1. Basic case information and docket entries
  2. Party names and case types
  3. Scheduled hearings and events
  4. Case status and disposition

  To search:

  1. Select the court type (District or Metropolitan)
  2. Enter search criteria (case number, party name, or citation number)
  3. Review results and select a case to view the docket

• re:SearchNM - This comprehensive system offers:

  1. Detailed register of actions
  2. Document listings with filing dates
  3. Party and attorney information
  4. Advanced search capabilities

  Registration is required for access.

• Court-specific websites:

  • Second Judicial District Court provides daily dockets and calendars
  • Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court offers searchable case information

For in-person docket access:

• Visit the clerk's office at the appropriate courthouse
• Request docket information for specific cases
• Use public access terminals available in court facilities
• Review daily printed dockets posted in courthouse lobbies

Second Judicial District Court Clerk's Office
400 Lomas Blvd. NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 841-8400
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court Clerk's Office
401 Lomas Blvd. NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 841-8151
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

For telephone docket information:

• Contact the appropriate clerk's office during business hours
• Provide case number or party names
• Request specific docket information or hearing dates

Pursuant to New Mexico Rules of Civil Procedure 1-079 and Rules of Criminal Procedure 5-123, most docket information is publicly accessible, though certain sensitive cases may have restricted access. Court dockets are updated regularly as new filings and events occur, providing current information on case status and scheduled proceedings.

Which Courts in Bernalillo County Are Not Courts of Record?

In Bernalillo County's judicial system, the distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is significant for procedural matters and appeals. A "court of record" maintains formal transcripts or recordings of proceedings and follows strict procedural rules, while courts not of record typically conduct less formal proceedings without verbatim records.

Under New Mexico Statutes § 34-8A-2, the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court functions as a court of record for specific case types and as a court not of record for others:

The Metropolitan Court serves as a court of record for:

• DWI/DUI cases (first and subsequent offenses)
• Domestic violence cases
• Certain specified misdemeanors

For these matters:

• Official verbatim records of proceedings are maintained
• Appeals are based on the record and proceed as appeals on error to the Court of Appeals
• Appellate review focuses on legal errors rather than de novo retrial

The Metropolitan Court functions as a court not of record for:

• Traffic violations (non-DWI)
• Most petty misdemeanors
• Civil cases within jurisdictional limits
• Small claims proceedings

For these non-record matters:

• Formal transcripts are not maintained (though audio recordings may exist)
• Appeals proceed to District Court as de novo trials (completely new proceedings)
• The appealing party receives an entirely new hearing rather than review of the lower court's decision

This hybrid status of the Metropolitan Court is unique in New Mexico's judicial system and was established through legislative reform to enhance judicial efficiency while maintaining appropriate appellate review for more serious offenses.

All other courts in Bernalillo County—including the Second Judicial District Court, New Mexico Court of Appeals, and New Mexico Supreme Court—function fully as courts of record, maintaining comprehensive records of all proceedings and following formal rules of procedure and evidence.

The distinction between record and non-record proceedings affects:

• Appeal procedures and deadlines
• Standards of review on appeal
• Preservation of issues for appellate consideration
• Requirements for legal representation

Litigants should be aware of these distinctions when planning litigation strategy and considering potential appeals from Metropolitan Court decisions.

Lookup Court Records in Bernalillo County

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Protecting Rights and Ensuring Justice for All: New Mexico Judiciary's Promise

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Public Records for Bernalillo County, including case lookup and public access

Records Public Access Web for Bernalillo County Clerk's Office

Access to public records for New Mexico Courts, including appellate and district courts