Courts are state and federal government institutions with the authority to decide legal disputes and administer justice under the law in civil, criminal, and administrative matters. Courts are generally given this authority under the relevant state or federal constitution, and the relevant state or federal statutes. Courts are generally staffed by (1) one judge (in trial courts) or a panel of judges (in appellate courts) who interpret and apply the law; (2) support staff members that may include administrators (clerks); (3) a court reporter to record court proceedings; and (4) a bailiff to provide security.

The room in which court proceedings are conducted is known as the courtroom, and the building that includes the courtroom is known as the courthouse. The term “the court” may be used to refer to the judge or judges who are presiding over court proceedings. The judges in a state or federal court system are collectively known as the judiciary.

In New Mexico (NM), courts operate as part of the state and federal judiciary systems to resolve legal disputes and uphold justice in civil, criminal, and administrative cases. These courts derive their authority from the New Mexico State Constitution and statutes, as well as from the U.S. Constitution and federal laws for federal courts. At the trial court level, typically one judge presides over cases, while appellate courts may have a panel of judges. The judiciary staff includes clerks who manage administrative tasks, court reporters who transcribe proceedings, and bailiffs who ensure courtroom security. Court proceedings take place in a courtroom, which is located within a courthouse. The term 'the court' can refer to the presiding judge or panel of judges. New Mexico's judiciary is structured with various levels of courts, including the New Mexico Supreme Court at the apex for state matters, and the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico, as well as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, for federal matters.