ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Second Judicial District Court is limiting public access to the Bernalillo County Courthouse in Downtown Albuquerque and two other locations due to reduced security staffing.
The court says the changes are necessary to ensure the safety of staff, the public, and those involved in legal proceedings. The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office has reduced its courthouse security presence at a time when officials say violence at courthouses is on the rise.
“The safety and well-being of people required to go to court cannot be compromised,” said New Mexico Supreme Court Chief Justice David K. Thomson.
Starting Monday, the court will implement the following changes:
- Court Clerk’s Office: Closed to the public in the morning. The main office will be open from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and the domestic violence clerk’s office will be open from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Staff will continue to respond to phone calls and electronic filings.
- Self-Help Center: Services will be limited to online and phone inquiries only. In-person access will not be available.
- Civil, Family, and Children’s Court Hearings: All hearings will be conducted remotely via video or audio conferencing.
A court spokesperson said the adjustments are temporary and will be reevaluated as staffing levels change.
