New Mexico Small Claims Court Guide

Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in New Mexico.

Maximum Claim

$10,000

Filing Fee

$46

Fee waiver available

Court Name

Metropolitan Court / Magistrate Court

Hearing Timeline

30–60 days from filing

Find your courthouse in New Mexico

Search by city, county, or ZIP code to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.

How Much Can You Sue For in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $10,000. This limit applies to both individuals and businesses.

Important: Metropolitan Court in Albuquerque, Magistrate Court elsewhere

New Mexico Small Claims Court Filing Fees

Claim Amount	Filing Fee
Standard filing fee	$46

If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask the court clerk for a fee waiver application when you file.

Statutes of Limitations in New Mexico

You must file your claim within the time limits below, or the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits.

years — written contract

years — oral contract

years — property damage

years — personal injury

Ready to take action in New Mexico?

A demand letter often resolves disputes before court. Our free guide shows you how to write one in minutes.

Read the demand letter guide

Where to File in New Mexico

Small claims cases in New Mexico are handled by the Metropolitan Court / Magistrate Court. New Mexico has 33 county Magistrate Courts and Metropolitan Court (Bernalillo).

Where to file: File in the county where the defendant lives or where the transaction occurred

Not sure which court you need? Our step-by-step filing guide walks you through finding the right court for your case.

Find your specific courthouse: Search for your county courthouse below ↓ — get the address, phone number, hours, and see if e-filing is available.

How to Serve the Defendant in New Mexico

After filing your claim, you must formally notify the defendant. This is called "service of process" and is required before your case can be heard.

Accepted methods: Personal service by sheriff, process server, or certified mail

Deadline: Service must be completed at least 10 days before the hearing.

New Mexico Small Claims Court Procedures

Can I bring a lawyer?

Yes, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in New Mexico small claims court.

Can I appeal?

Either party may appeal within 15 days to district court

Is e-filing available?

E-filing is available in some New Mexico courts but not all. Check with your specific court location.

Are remote hearings available?

Remote hearings are available in some New Mexico courts. Check with your specific court location for current policies.

Official New Mexico Court Resources

New Mexico Court Website →

Find Your Courthouse in New Mexico

Select your county to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.

Search all courts by city, county, or ZIP

Bernalillo County

Albuquerque area

(505) 841-8151

Catron County

Reserve area

(575) 533-6474

Chaves County

Roswell area

(575) 624-6088