Rule 2-702. Default.

A. Failure to respond to summons. If the defendant fails to appear at the hearing date set forth in the summons or fails to file an answer or other responsive pleading within the time period set forth in the summons, and if the plaintiff proves by an appropriate return that proper service was made on the defendant, the court may enter judgment for the plaintiff for the amount due, including interest, costs, and other items allowed by law. The court may require evidence about any fact before entering default judgment. At a minimum, before entering a default judgment, the court shall require the plaintiff to allege sufficient facts to demonstrate the following: (1) the plaintiff is a proper party to bring the lawsuit; (2) the defendant is a proper party; (3) a legal relationship exists between the plaintiff and the defendant that forms the basis of the lawsuit; and (4) the amount of the damages, debt, or other relief requested, including principal, interest, and all other charges or costs. In cases controlled by Rule 2-201(E) NMRA, before entry of default judgment, the court shall determine that the party seeking relief has stated a claim on which relief can be granted, has complied with Rules 2-201(E)(1) and 2-401(D) NMRA, and has substantially complied with the requirements of Form 4-226 NMRA, or has complied with Rules 2-201(E)(2) and 2-401(D), and has substantially complied with the requirements of Form 4-226A NMRA. A copy of the default judgment shall forthwith be mailed by the clerk of the court to each party against whom judgment has been entered. The clerk shall endorse on the judgment the date of mailing. B. Failure to appear at trial. Failure to appear at the time and date set for trial shall be grounds for entering a default judgment against the nonappearing party. C. Setting aside default. For good cause shown, within thirty (30) days after entry of judgment and if no appeal has been timely taken, the court may set aside a default judgment.