In the actions mentioned in the last preceding section [repealed], the defendant may, in his answer, allege both the truth of the matter charged as defamatory and any mitigating circumstances admissible in evidence, to reduce the amount of damages, and whether he prove the justification or not, he may give mitigating circumstances in evidence.

Terms Used In New Mexico Statutes 38-2-9

  • Answer: The formal written statement by a defendant responding to a civil complaint and setting forth the grounds for defense.
  • Damages: Money paid by defendants to successful plaintiffs in civil cases to compensate the plaintiffs for their injuries.
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Evidence: Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case for one side or the other.
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