New Mexico Statutes Chapter 42. Actions and Proceedings Relating to Property § 42-4-21. Mine or mining claim; contested application for patent; ejectment maintainable regardless of possession

That when an application is made for a patent to a mine or mining claim under the laws of the United States by any person, persons, company or corporation claiming to own or have an interest therein, and such application is contested by any other person, persons, company or corporation in the land office of the United States, such person, persons, company or corporation so contesting, may bring a suit of ejectment in the district court of the county in which the mine or mining claim is situated, for the recovery of the same, whether in or out of possession of such mine or claim, and the question as to who was in the possession of the mine or claim at the time when the application was made for patent, or when the suit was begun, shall not be considered by the court, except as it may be necessary in determining the interests of the respective claimants, and their right to the possession of said mine or claim.