Taos County Probate Judge
Judges in probate courts handle the procedures governing the distribution of a decedent’s property in less complicated cases. (More complicated cases are handled by state District Court judges.). Term: Four years; no term limits.
Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.
-
SUZANNE VALERIO
(Dem)
1. Describe the specific legal training and knowledge that have prepared you for the office of Probate Judge.
2. What changes, if any, would you make to the functioning of the Probate Court?
3. How can you educate the public about the court’s processes?
4. What other information would you like voters to know about you?
I have had the privilege of serving as your Taos County Probate Judge for the past three and a half years. Before taking office, I spent 29 years serving our community through the Taos County District Attorney’s Office. Public service has always been central to my life, and it remains an honor to continue serving the people of Taos County in this role.
One of my goals as Probate Judge has been to make this process less intimidating for individuals and families. The New Mexico Supreme Court has approved forms designed to help self represented individuals open an informal probate case, and these forms are available through the Taos County Clerk’s Office.
Over the last 3 ½ years, I have also focused on education and outreach.
Over the last 3 ½ years, I have focused on education and outreach. I have conducted presentations throughout our community to help residents learn about estate planning and understand the resources available to them. These presentations have sparked meaningful discussions and thoughtful questions from community members.
I have also worked closely with the County Clerk’s Office to make educational materials from the State Bar of New Mexico readily available to the public on topics such as: Estate planning, Transfer on death deeds, Power of attorney & Probate matters.
Serving as Probate Judge has taught me many things. One thing I learned is: Nobody wants to have go to Probate Court. Citizens come to our office during one of the most difficult times in their lives. Often, this is their first experience dealing with probate, it can feel overwhelming.
We strive to treat everyone who comes through our doors with patience, respect, and compassion to make the probate process understandable and as straightforward as possible, while ensuring that we follow the law and procedures required of the Court.
I am proud of the work we have done to help families navigate the Probate Court process with dignity and respect.
Thank you for the trust you have placed in me.
To make a selection for a candidate you must first find your races. Would you like to find your races now?
You have already selected the maximum number of candidates for this race.
You must uncheck an existing selection before making another selection.