Rio Arriba County
Rio Arriba County is New Mexico's fifth largest county by land, spanning approximately 5,896 square miles. Established in 1852, the county derives its name from the Spanish phrase meaning 'Upper River,' referring to its location along the upper Rio Grande. More than 40,000 persons reside in Rio Arriba as of 2022. The county's largest city is Española, while its county seat is Tierra Amarilla.
Rio Arriba County's judicial system comprises the District, Magistrate, Probate, and Municipal Courts. The county's District Court is part of New Mexico's First Judicial District. It typically hears civil lawsuits such as contract disputes, tort claims, and civil actions where the amount in controversy exceeds $10,000. The apex court also presides over felonies, misdemeanors, domestic relations, mental health cases, and appeals from administrative agencies. Meanwhile, criminal pre-trials and civil cases under $10,000 in financial settlement are brought before the Magistrate Courts in Rio Arriba County. The Probate Court oversees all probate matters, including the administration of estates, guardianships, and the issuance of marriage licenses. Rio Arriba County's Municipal Courts, located in Española and other cities, hear and decide ordinance violations such as noise disturbances, illegal dumping, and parking infractions.
Rio Arriba County court records are official documents containing transcripts, orders, exhibits, affidavits, and other details of legal proceedings in trial courts. According to the state's Inspection of Public Records Act, public court records include the following:
- Criminal court records
- Civil records
- Probate records
- Real estate records
- Domestic relations records
However, the court clerk restricts public access to confidential court records involving juvenile, mental health, substance abuse, and adoption cases. These documents contain sensitive and personal information about vulnerable persons in Rio Arriba County. Requesters can obtain court documents by visiting the courthouse at:
Rio Arriba County District Courthouse
7 Main Street
​Tierra Amarilla, NM 87575
Phone: (505) 455-8335
On the other hand, anyone can access Rio Arriba County public court records online via the New Mexico Case Lookup. Requesters can also register for the re:Search®NM to view court records online.
