When you’re facing a legal issue that doesn’t fall under criminal law, you’ll likely need a skilled civil lawyer to guide you through the complexities of the case. Whether you're dealing with contract disputes, property issues, or business conflicts, having an experienced civil lawyer by your side is crucial. 

When children can no longer be cared for by their parents, kinship or guardianship arrangements may provide a safe and stable environment. If you’re considering becoming a guardian or are involved in a kinship care situation, it’s important to have a knowledgeable and compassionate attorney to guide you through the legal process.

Planning for the future and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes is an essential part of life. Probate and estate planning are legal processes that manage your estate, protect your legacy, and provide guidance to your loved ones. At our law firm, we specialize in all aspects of probate, estate planning, wills, and trusts for clients throughout Northern New Mexico, including cities like Santa Fe, Taos, Española, and Los Alamos.

What is Probate and Why is It Important?

Probate is the legal process that takes place after someone passes away, during which their estate is administered. This includes validating a will, distributing assets, paying debts, and settling any other outstanding matters. The process can be complex and time-consuming, but having the right legal representation can simplify it and help ensure that your loved ones don’t face unnecessary difficulties.

Comprehensive Estate Planning Services

Estate planning is crucial for protecting your assets and ensuring your wishes are carried out. Our firm provides a full range of estate planning services, including:

• Wills: We create clear, legally valid wills that ensure your property is distributed according to your wishes. A well-drafted will helps minimize the potential for confusion or conflict among family members after your passing.
• Trusts: Trusts are powerful tools that can help avoid the lengthy and public probate process. Whether you're interested in a revocable or irrevocable trust, we can help set one up to fit your needs.
• Powers of Attorney: We assist in creating powers of attorney for both healthcare and financial matters, ensuring that a trusted individual can make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
• Advance Healthcare Directives: Our attorneys help prepare healthcare directives that specify your preferences for medical treatment if you are unable to communicate your wishes.

Why Choose Our Firm for Estate Planning and Probate?

Our law firm has years of experience in probate and estate planning law. We understand the intricacies of New Mexico’s legal system and provide tailored advice to ensure your estate plan meets your needs and goals. Whether you are looking to create a comprehensive estate plan or need assistance navigating the probate process after the loss of a loved one, our attorneys are here to offer expert guidance and support.

Family law cases are some of the most emotionally challenging legal matters you may face. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or addressing child support issues, having an experienced family law attorney on your side is essential.

Criminal charges can change your life. From fines and penalties to jail time, the consequences of a criminal conviction can be severe. If you're facing criminal charges in Northern New Mexico, having a local and trusted criminal defense lawyer like Jerry Archuleta is crucial to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

New Mexico's legalization of marijuana has created an opportunity for individuals with marijuana-related convictions to clear their criminal records. If you have a past conviction for marijuana possession, distribution, or other related offenses, you may qualify for expungement.