The attorney general of New Mexico functions as the state's chief legal officer, legal counsel to state government, consumer advocate and guardian of the public interest.

The New Mexico Attorney General prosecutes and defends all actions and proceedings involving any state employee in their official capacity, as well as may represent residential or small business consumers before the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission.

At the governor's direction, the AG may attend and assist in the trial of any indictment or information in any county of the state.

In matters of the impeachment of a state legislator or employee, the AG initiates conflict of interest enforcement actions.

The AG establishes and maintains a register of all documents filed by charitable organizations and makes it available for public inspection.