Civil Appeals

The Civil Appeals Division of the New Mexico Department of Justice handles constitutional litigation, civil appeals, and extraordinary writs in state and federal court. The Division works on appeals across the civil law spectrum, including matters related to consumer protection, environmental protection, civil rights, and matters involving constitutional law, working with the other divisions throughout the agency to represent the State, its officials, and its people’s interests. 

The members of the Civil Appeals Division file briefs and argue primarily in the New Mexico Court of Appeals, the New Mexico Supreme Court, the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico, the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court, although they may also be called upon to file briefs or argue in front of state district courts or other state or federal courts as issues arise. Our attorneys are also involved with Supreme Court committees and regularly present at conferences, training sessions, and the law school.