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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Defamation in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, the statute of limitations for defamation is generally 3 years under NMSA 1978, § 37-1-8.

3 YEARS
Defamation · New Mexico
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Defamation Deadlines in New Mexico

How long do you have to file a defamation claim in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, the statute of limitations for defamation is generally 3 years under NMSA 1978, § 37-1-8.

When does the clock start for defamation in New Mexico?

Three years — New Mexico groups defamation with personal injury rather than carving it into a shorter period, so it is among the more generous states here.

Can the New Mexico deadline for defamation be extended?

The single-publication rule generally fixes accrual at first publication.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in New Mexico?

Often, yes. Suit within 2 years under the Tort Claims Act under NMSA 1978, §§ 41-4-15, 41-4-16. The New Mexico Tort Claims Act allows two years to bring suit under § 41-4-15, cutting the general three-year injury period. Cozart v. Town of Bernalillo holds this two-year period, rather than the one-year limit in § 37-1-24 for suits against a city, town or…

How does New Mexico compare to other states for defamation?

New Mexico's 3 years is among the longest in the country. Across the 48 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for defamation ranges from 1 year to 3 years, and 1 year is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Defamation Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the defamation deadline in New Mexico:

01 False statements published in print or online
02 Slanderous statements made verbally
03 Statements harming professional reputation
04 False light or malicious falsehood claims
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Other Filing Deadlines in New Mexico

Statutes of limitations have exceptions, and courts apply them to specific facts. This page states the general rule. A licensed New Mexico attorney can tell you the deadline that applies to your situation.
See every filing deadline in New Mexico, or compare defamation across all states.
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