A. A statute or rule is construed, if possible, to:

Terms Used In New Mexico Statutes 12-2A-18

  • Common law: The legal system that originated in England and is now in use in the United States. It is based on judicial decisions rather than legislative action.
  • Statute: A law passed by a legislature.

(1)     give effect to its objective and purpose; (2)     give effect to its entire text; and

(3)     avoid an unconstitutional, absurd or unachievable result.

B. A statute that is intended to be uniform with those of other states is construed to effectuate that purpose with respect to the subject of the statute.

C. The presumption that a civil statute in derogation of the common law is construed strictly does not apply to a statute of this state.