A mass tort is a civil lawsuit that involves hundreds or thousands of plaintiffs and one or a few defendants in which the plaintiffs have the same or similar claims against the defendant or defendants. Mass tort lawsuits are often filed as class action lawsuits (a procedural mechanism for joining the plaintiffs in one lawsuit), and are typically based on alleged wrongful acts (torts) such as exposure of the plaintiffs to harmful substances (asbestos or benzene), or defective products (pharmaceuticals or medical devices), or invasions of privacy (data breaches).

In New Mexico, as in other states, a mass tort is a type of civil action involving numerous plaintiffs against one or a few defendants where the plaintiffs have comparable legal claims resulting from the defendant's conduct. These claims often arise from exposure to harmful substances, defective products, or privacy violations such as data breaches. Mass torts in New Mexico can be filed as class action lawsuits, which allows for the consolidation of individual claims into a single action to improve efficiency and consistency in the adjudication of the claims. The New Mexico Rules of Civil Procedure would govern the proceedings of a mass tort or class action lawsuit, including the certification of a class, notice to potential class members, and the management of the litigation. Additionally, federal laws and regulations may apply, especially if the case involves interstate matters or federal questions. It's important for plaintiffs to consult with an attorney experienced in mass torts to navigate the complexities of these cases and to ensure that their rights are adequately represented.