New Mexico Separate Answer and Defenses to Amended Complaint In New Mexico, a separate answer and defenses to an amended complaint are legal documents filed by the defendant in response to the amended complaint submitted by the plaintiff. These documents serve as a formal response to the allegations made by the plaintiff and are filed with the court. There are different types of separate answers and defenses that can be raised, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. 1. General Denial: A common defense used in a separate answer is a general denial, where the defendant refutes all the allegations mentioned in the amended complaint. This response asserts that the plaintiff's claims are false and lacking sufficient evidence. 2. Affirmative Defenses: Besides denying the plaintiff's claims, a defendant can assert affirmative defenses to the amended complaint. These defenses provide justifications for the defendant's actions, even if the allegations made by the plaintiff are proven true. Some examples of affirmative defenses in New Mexico can include: a) Statute of Limitations: The defendant may argue that the plaintiff's claims were not filed within the designated time limit set by law, thus making them invalid. b) Comparative Negligence: If the case involves personal injury, the defendant may argue that the plaintiff's own negligence contributed to the harm suffered. c) Caches: This defense states that the plaintiff unreasonably delayed in filing the lawsuit, causing prejudice to the defendant. d) Duress: The defendant may claim that their actions were a result of being under pressure or coercion by another party, and should therefore be excused. e) Consent: The defendant can assert that the plaintiff consented to the actions that are now being challenged. 3. Counterclaims: In addition to filing a separate answer and defenses, the defendant may also file counterclaims against the plaintiff. Counterclaims are legal actions initiated by the defendant against the plaintiff, alleging wrongdoing. These claims must be related to the subject of the original lawsuit and can provide the defendant with a means to seek damages or other forms of relief. It's important to note that these types of separate answers and defenses can vary depending on the specific case and the circumstances involved. Legal representation and consultation with an attorney experienced in New Mexico law is advised to ensure the appropriate defenses and responses are raised in the specific context of the amended complaint.