Ten judges preside in the New Mexico Court of Appeals, which has offices in Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Las Cruces.

The court of appeals must hear appeals of civil cases, criminal cases that don't result in the death penalty, and juvenile cases. The Court can also hear other cases, if it so chooses.

Cases appealed from this court will go to the New Mexico Supreme Court.

When there is a vacancy in the Court of Appeals, the governor appoints an attorney to fill the position. The appointee will hold the seat until the next general election. S/he may then run for election, and become an Appeals Court Judge.