New Mexico Lawyer Assistance Legacy Project Video

The NM LAP Legacy Project stands as a tribute to the collective efforts of those attorneys who united in 1988 and to the people that helped to continue to make the program what it is today. It serves as a commemorative gesture to those absent, those among us, and to every individual who has played a role in molding this program. Furthermore, it extends a legacy to those who will come after, offering insight into the genesis of this initiative and those people we remember alongside it.

This endeavor is a profound dedication to every person who has woven their unique narrative into the rich tapestry of the NM LAP.

Watch the video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Li1FukHaLe4

Learn more about the New Mexico Lawyer Assistance Program at: www.sbnm.org/NMLAP

New Legal Well-Being in Action Podcast Episode:

In this episode, the State Bar of New Mexico's Professional Development Program Director, Bill Slease, speaks again with Elizabeth Lynch Phillips, a lawyer and certified professional coach who works with lawyers to find greater meaning and satisfaction in their lives. Elizabeth dives deeper into the holistic approach to the practice of law with an emphasis on focusing within, being present in the moment and drawing on our true selves in everything we do in the practice of law and beyond.

New Mexico Supreme Court - Remote Proceedings and Meeting Standards

The courtroom, whether a physical in-person courtroom, or a virtual courtroom, remains a formal and serious setting where judges hear matters involving real people that affect real lives. Every case is important, and all participants should maintain court decorum in the virtual world, just as they would in person. The New Mexico Supreme Court asks all individuals participating in Remote Court proceedings, as well as all meetings called by a member of the New Mexico Judiciary, to continue to observe the following well-established rules of court standards and decorum.



Please view the full procedure for remote proceedings and meeting standards by clicking the button below.

New Mexico Supreme Court - Notice of Vacancy on the Rules of Evidence Committee

A new position recently became available on the Rules of Evidence Committee. Anyone interested in volunteering to serve on this committee may apply by submitting an application, along with a resume, to my attention: Elizabeth A. Garcia, Chief Clerk, by email to nmsupremecourtclerk@nmcourts.gov or by first class mail to P.O. Box 848, Santa Fe, N.M. 87504. The required application form can be found on the Supreme Court’s website at https://supremecourt.nmcourts.gov/current-vacancies.aspx. Applications for the Rules of Evidence Committee will be accepted through Nov. 3. 

New Mexico Supreme Court - 2023 Year-End Rule Amendments

Under Rule 23-106.1 NMRA, the Supreme Court has approved a number of changes to the rules, forms, and uniform jury instructions for the 2023 rulemaking cycle. A summary of those changes that the Court approved on Nov. 1, 2023 can be viewed by clicking the button below. The summary also includes out-of-cycle amendments that the Court approved on Nov. 1, 2023. Unless otherwise noted below and in the history note at the end of each approved rule, form, or UJI, most amendments will take effect on Dec. 31, 2023. The full text of the amendments in markup format and the related orders are available on the Court’s website by clicking here. Approved rule amendments will also appear on NMOneSource.com by their effective date.

Board of Bar Commissioners - New Mexico Access to Justice Commission Appointment

The Board of Bar Commissioners will make two appointments to the NM Access to Justice Commission for three-year terms. The Commission is dedicated to expanding and improving civil legal assistance by increasing pro bono and other support to indigent people in New Mexico. Active status attorneys in New Mexico who would like to serve on the Commission should send a letter of interest and brief resume by Nov. 27 to bbc@sbnm.org.

Notice of Commissioner Vacancies

Four Commissioner appointments for three-year terms will be made to the State Bar of New Mexico ATJ Fund Grant Commission. The ATJ Fund Grant Commission solicits and reviews grant applications and awards grants to civil legal services organizations consistent with the State Plan for the Provision of Civil Legal Services to Low Income New Mexicans. To be eligible for appointment, applicants must not be affiliated with a civil legal service organization which would be eligible for grant funding from the ATJ Fund. Anyone interested in serving on the Commission should send a letter of interest and brief résumé by Nov. 15 to Kate Kennedy at kate.kennedy@sbnm.org.

Notice of Commissioner Vacancies

Two Commissioner appointments for three-year terms for the Client Protection Fund will be made in accordance with Rule 17A-005 (B). The purpose of the Client Protection Fund is to promote public confidence in the administration of justice and the integrity of the legal profession by reimbursing losses caused by the dishonest conduct of lawyers admitted and licensed to practice law in the courts of New Mexico. The new term will begin Jan. 1, 2024. Applicants must be active members of the State Bar of New Mexico. Anyone interested in serving on the Commission should send a letter of interest and brief résumé to kate.kennedy@sbnm.org.

Professional Development Program

Most lawyers are constantly striving to find ways to improve and reach their highest potential, whether that means improving practice skills, profitability, the integration of work and personal life pursuits, seeking a higher level of confidence and overall well-being, improving professional or personal relationships, or some other way. A certified professional coach is someone trained to partner with a person to maximize full personal and professional potential and reach that person’s desired results. To learn more about how a certified professional coach might be of value to you please visit the State Bar website at CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL COACHING.

Equity in Justice Program

Join conversations facilitated by Dr. Amanda Parker, Equity in Justice Director of the State Bar of New Mexico, and Torri Jacobus, Statewide Equity, Inclusion, and Justice Director for the Administrative Office of the Courts for the next Equity in Justice Book Club pick, "Lies My Teacher Told Me," by James Loewen. The discussions will take place on Nov. 14, Nov. 18, Dec. 12, Jan. 9, 2024, Jan. 23, 2024, Feb. 6, 2024 and Feb. 20, 2024. Each session will go from noon to 1:30 p.m. (MT).

The New Mexico Lawyer Assistance Program

Connection

Did you know that social connections and relationships have a significant impact on our overall health and longevity? Studies have consistently shown that individuals with strong social networks and close relationships tend to live longer, experience less stress, and have better mental and emotional well-being.

For instance, a landmark study conducted by Harvard University known as the Harvard Study of Adult Development, which has been ongoing for over 80 years, found that the quality of a person's relationships is a better predictor of physical and mental health than factors like genetics, diet, or exercise. It suggests that fostering meaningful and supportive connections with friends and family is not only essential for our happiness but also for our long-term well-being.

This fact underscores the importance of nurturing and maintaining social relationships as a fundamental component of a healthy and fulfilling life.

Judicial Wellness Program (NMJWP)

Keep them separated!

Many of us have moved to our home offices, either for convenience or to save money. Have you either moved home to work or find yourselves sometimes at home conducting client meetings, business meetings or even court hearings from your home office? Sometimes, we may find that the lines between our work life and personal life get blurred, so much so that we may find ourselves eating cereal in our kitchen and answering email at the kitchen table. Finding ways to keep that office space in your home separated from your daily living and personal life can be helpful.

5 suggested tips:

• Set Clear boundaries between your office and home (physical and mental).
• Set a time after which you will no longer check your inbox.
• Turn off notifications on work devices in the evening.
• Set aside one part of the day for meetings and calls.
• Use a separate work phone or laptop.

Try it and let us know how it worked! Reach out with any comments to Sandra.engel@sbnm.org.