New Mexico Separate Answer: In the legal system of New Mexico, a separate answer is a formal response filed by a defendant to the allegations made against them in a cross claim. It is a crucial document that outlines the defendant's position, defenses, and counterclaims. Keywords: New Mexico separate answer, legal response, defendant, cross claim, allegations, position, defenses, counterclaims. Affirmative Defenses to Cross claim in New Mexico: Affirmative defenses are legal arguments put forth by a defendant in response to a cross claim, asserting reasons why they should not be held liable or responsible for the allegations made against them. In New Mexico, several affirmative defenses can be raised in a separate answer to a cross claim, including: 1. Statute of Limitations: This defense asserts that the applicable time limit within which a legal action could be filed has expired, rendering the cross claim invalid. 2. Contributory Negligence: This defense alleges that the plaintiff or a third party's negligence also contributed to the harm or damage claimed in the cross claim, reducing or eliminating the defendant's liability. 3. Comparative Negligence: This defense argues that the plaintiff's own negligence contributed to the harm or damage and seeks to assign a percentage of fault to each party involved. 4. Assumption of Risk: This defense asserts that the plaintiff knowingly and willingly assumed a risk or danger associated with a certain activity, relieving the defendant of liability. 5. Statutory Immunity: Some specific statutes or laws may grant immunity from liability to certain individuals or entities, such as government officials performing official duties. 6. Waiver: This defense argues that the plaintiff or another party intentionally waived their rights to pursue legal action or claim damages against the defendant. 7. Failure to State a Claim: This defense asserts that the cross claim does not present enough facts or legal elements to support a valid cause of action. 8. Release: This defense claims that the plaintiff previously released the defendant from any liability related to the subject of the cross claim. Keywords: Affirmative defenses, New Mexico, cross claim, statute of limitations, contributory negligence, comparative negligence, assumption of risk, statutory immunity, waiver, failure to state a claim, release. Note: It's important to consult with a legal professional regarding specific laws, rules, and applicable defenses as they may vary or be subject to change.