Campaign Phone
5054041363
Filing County
Sandoval
My qualifications for serving as Probate Judge of Sandoval County are grounded in a combination of legal training, administrative experience, and a deep understanding of human behavior.
With a Juris Doctorate, I have the legal foundation necessary to interpret statutes, apply precedent, and ensure that all probate matters—wills and estates are handled with precision and fairness under New Mexico law.
My Ph.D. & M.B.A. equip me with strong organizational and management skills.
This office has been professionally run by Attorney, Ed Lovato for the past four years, so I doubt that I would need to make any changes. However, once I am in this position I can see if there is more stream lining and use of technology that would be appropriate. I am technologically literate and could see if it would be useful in this office.
Educating the public about the court’s processes is essential to ensuring access to justice, especially in probate matters where individuals are often navigating the system for the first time during emotionally difficult periods. I would ensure that clear, plain-language resources are readily available—both online and in print—explaining common procedures such as filing a will or opening an estate . I would support regular community outreach such as senior centers and retirement homes.
I moved to New Mexico because my son, daughter, and two grandchildren, Miles & Alena Gonzales already lived here. It was a very good place to retire. I have volunteered my time with various non-profit organizations. I served on the Board of Directors of Rebuilding Together Sandoval County for 15 years. It is a non-profit charity which provides very low income homeowners with help in fixing their homes & anyone who needs help should contact them by way of their website, help@rebuildingnm.org.
Campaign Phone
505-788-7118
Filing County
Sandoval
I am the only candidate who is a licensed New Mexico attorney. My 15 years of experience already include extensive work in probate and estate law, and I’ve helped countless families in Sandoval County navigate the probate process, settling their loved ones’ wills and estates. As a law firm owner since 2015, I bring practical experience and real-world insight into how probate impacts families, and I have seen firsthand how important it is to have a court that is both welcoming and knowledgeable.
Probate often occurs during difficult times, and the process should feel manageable, not overwhelming. To that end, my goal is to ensure that the Probate Court remains clear, consistent, and easy to navigate. I would build on the current foundation by continuing to emphasize clear communication, consistency, and a welcoming, calm environment. I would also prioritize responsiveness and organization to help ensure efficiency, and to earn the public’s trust.
Probating a will can feel overwhelming. But the good news is that many cases can be handled without an attorney. I will be sure to provide straightforward instructions, accessible forms, and practical guidance to keep the process simple, and so individuals can know exactly what to expect. In my experience, even small amounts of clearer directions can make a big difference for families. The goal is to make the process feel less intimidating and more manageable, especially during a difficult time.
As a native-born New Mexican, I care deeply about my community and my neighbors who live here. As a small business owner and working parent, I value fairness, accountability, and treating people with respect. I will work to ensure the Probate Court is welcoming, efficient, and grounded in the law, as well as the needs of our working families. I bring both legal experience and a commitment to public service, and I would be honored to serve the good people of Sandoval County.