New Mexico Statutes Chapter 35. Magistrate and Municipal Courts § 35-14-5. Temporary incapacity or absence of a municipal judge

Any registered voter of a municipality in which a municipal judge is incapacitated or absent may be appointed to the office of the municipal judge during his temporary incapacity or absence, and he shall hear and determine cases arising under municipal ordinances while sitting as municipal judge. The governing body may establish a procedure by ordinance for appointment.