A Legacy of Leadership
Reflections from Former Presidents of the State Bar of
New Mexico on the Future of the Legal Profession
Mary Martha Chicoski
2015 President
“We must refine past successes within our profession while driving efficiency as technology continues to advance, with the goal of providing ethical and effective client representation.
The State Bar’s long-standing programs continue to play an essential role in helping bridge access to justice for citizens in more remote areas of the state. One example is the Young Lawyer Division’s Wills for Heroes program, recently held in Roswell.
The profession also continues to emphasize the importance of work-life balance for all members, regardless of practice years or age, so we can best show up for our clients, our families and ourselves.”
Carolyn A. Wolf
2022 President
“The biggest challenges currently facing the legal profession in New Mexico are providing accessible and affordable legal services to all New Mexicans who need them, wherever they live and whatever they make.
The evolution of the profession should include innovations to meet these needs, including the development of training and licensing programs for paraprofessionals who can serve underserved populations in simple legal matters, as well as the appropriate, accurate and ethical use of artificial intelligence.
I also hope that law firms and other legal employers will continue to improve professional environments so lawyers can find work-life balance while maintaining economically viable practices. Innovations that provide more support to lawyers with families and allow lawyers to engage in more low-cost and pro bono work are part of the future I would like to see.”
Erika E. Anderson
2014 President
“I was honored to serve as the President of the State Bar of New Mexico in 2014. When I was President, it was not uncommon to pick up the telephone to discuss a case or go to coffee with opposing counsel to try to resolve a case. Unfortunately, this type of informal communication with opposing counsel is becoming less frequent, and email and motion practice seem to be the preferred way that attorneys communicate.
In addition, the biggest change I foresee in the legal profession is the integration of HIPAA-compliant AI tools to help with discovery, document automation and medical and deposition summaries. I anticipate AI involvement increasing everywhere, including in the practice of law.”
Benjamin I. Sherman
2023 President
“New Mexico is fortunate to have a rich history of attorneys, judges and other legal professionals working together to advance clients’ interests, seek justice and serve the community. As a state with a small population and one law school, our legal community has always prided itself on a high level of professionalism, mutual courtesy and respect that sets us apart.
It is important that, as we move forward, we do not forget our past. While technologies allow us to become more efficient and better serve our clients, it is crucial that we maintain the personal ties and connections that make the practice of law in New Mexico special and unique.
It is also crucial that we protect, cherish and uphold the rule of law to maintain fairness, predictability and justice in our society.”
Erinna M. "Erin" Atkins
2024 President
“The future of the legal profession in New Mexico is bright, shaped by rapid advances in AI and automation that are transforming research, drafting and court processes. Tools like instant speech-to-text recording will streamline court orders and reduce delays between hearings and written records. These technologies will also help pro se litigants better navigate the system, reducing confusion and inefficiency. As routine tasks become faster, lawyers will focus more on advising clients and courtroom advocacy.
Reforms such as the NextGen bar exam and alternative licensing pathways aim to expand access to the profession, especially in underserved areas. Initiatives like treatment courts and advances in screening tools are expected to improve outcomes in mental health cases and criminal law.
As the law is ever-changing, so too is the practice of it. I look forward to the future.”
Craig A. Orraj
2008 President
“New Mexico’s unique and diverse culture has allowed it to remain a special environment for practicing law. We should be proud of our accomplishments as a united bar association.
Nevertheless, we must be adaptable to change to remain relevant. I believe we have the foundation not only to lead the country with a high professional and ethical standard for our bar membership, but also to develop innovative ideas that will help us effectively navigate the technological advances ahead.”