When a claim is disputed as to validity or amount, evidence of statements or conduct by parties or their attomeys in settlement negotiations, with or without a mediator present, including offers of compromise or any payment in settlement of a related claim, is not admissible either to prove or disprove the liability for, or invalidity of, or amount of the disputed claim. Such evidence shall not be excluded when offered for another purpose; and evidence otherwise admissible shall not be excluded merely because it was disclosed during settlement negotiations.
N.j. R. Evid. 408