New Mexico Statutes Chapter 34. Court Structure and Administration § 34-5-2. Court of appeals; chief judge

At their first meeting in each odd-numbered year, the judges of the court of appeals shall, by majority vote, designate one of their number to serve as chief judge for a term of two years. In the absence of the chief judge, the senior judge present at the seat of government shall exercise the powers of the chief judge. Seniority shall be determined by the length of present continuous service on the court. In the event of a vacancy in the office of chief judge, the judges shall, by majority vote, designate one of their number to serve for the remainder of the term.