New Mexico Statutes Chapter 28. Human Rights § 28-1-13. Appeal

A. A person aggrieved by an order of the commission may obtain a trial de novo by filing a notice of appeal in the district court of the county where the discriminatory practice occurred or where the respondent does business. The notice of appeal must be filed within ninety days from the date of service of the commission's order. A copy of the notice of appeal shall be served personally or by certified mail, return receipt requested, on all parties who appeared before the commission at their last known addresses. A copy of the notice of appeal shall also be served at the division in Santa Fe. An order of the commission shall not be superseded or stayed during the appeal unless the district court so directs after notice to the commission and a hearing.

B. If testimony at the hearing was transcribed, the division shall, upon receipt of the notice of appeal, file so much of the transcript of the record as the parties requesting the transcript designate as necessary for the appeal with the district court.

C. Upon appeal, either party may request a jury. The jurisdiction of the district court is exclusive and its judgment is final, subject to further appeal to the court of appeals.

D. If the complainant prevails in an action or proceeding under this section, the court in its discretion may allow actual damages and reasonable attorney fees, and the state shall be liable the same as a private person.