N.M. Admin. Code § 19.2.7.14
If more than one (1) person shall sign an application, the first (1st) name appearing thereon shall be considered as the bona fide applicant and the lease shall issue only in the name first listed. Such person only will be recognized by the commissioner as the lessee and sole record holder. This Rule specifically applies to cases of partnerships and other unincorporated associations; however, said agreements defining and setting out the various interests of other parties in the lease may be filed with the commissioner as miscellaneous instruments, and when so filed shall constitute constructive notice to the world of the existence and the contents thereof; provided, however, that the commissioner shall look solely and only to the lessee record holder for compliance with the terms and conditions of the lease, and the commissioner shall not be a necessary party to any dispute or controversy arising out of or because of such side agreement. Notices hereunder and under the Geothermal Resources Act required to be given to the lessee by the commissioner shall be sufficient if mailed to the record lessee.
N.M. Admin. Code § 19.2.7.14