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James Brian Smith

Law Offices of James Brian Smith • Albuquerque, NM
Estate PlanningPersonal InjuryProbateReal Estate

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Contact

Email
Phone
(806) 451-3038
Address
7850 Jefferson St. NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87109, US

Professional

About

Meet James Brian Smith, often known as Brian, a dedicated attorney and the founder of J. Brian Smith Law LLC, proudly serving the vibrant community of Albuquerque, New Mexico. With a robust focus on estate planning, Brian helps individuals and families navigate the complexities of wills, trusts, and probate, ensuring that their legacies are preserved and their wishes honored. Brian's diverse clientele includes a wide range of entities—from individual homeowners and sole proprietors to corporations, partnerships, and health care organizations. His comprehensive understanding of business law, real estate, and water rights further enhances his ability to cater to the unique needs of each client, whether they are buying or selling property or seeking guidance on intricate legal matters. Originally hailing from Virginia, Brian has called New Mexico home for over three decades. His educational journey began at Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University, where he earned a degree in forestry and wildlife in 1978. This foundation led him to a successful career in coal mining reclamation across several states before he transitioned to law. In 1999, he completed his Juris Doctor at the University of New Mexico School of Law, establishing the groundwork for a distinguished legal career. Brian is an active member of the New Mexico Bar Association, as well as the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico and the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. He contributes to the legal community as a board member of the State Bar’s Animal Law Section and engages in philanthropic activities with the New Mexico Masons. Outside of his legal practice, Brian enjoys exploring the great outdoors through hiking, landscaping, and gardening with his wife. Their shared love for travel and adventure further enriches their life in New Mexico, a state they proudly call home. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for serving his clients, Brian Smith stands ready to assist you with all your estate planning needs.

About Estate Planning Law

Estate planning attorneys help individuals plan for the distribution of their assets and care during incapacity. They create wills, trusts, and other documents to protect families and minimize taxes. Common matters include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives.

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Credentials

Education
1999 University of New Mexico JD - Juris Doctor 1978 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University BS - Bachelor of Science
Languages
English

Recognition & Involvement

Awards
2016 BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
Publications
1999 University of New Mexico Natural Resources Journal Western Wetlands: The Backwater of Wetlands Regulation
Associations
2015 - Present Animal Law Section, New Mexico Bar Association Director 2000 - Present Federal Bar for the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico Member 1999 - Present State Bar of New Mexico Member 2002 - 2002 Bar for the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals Member
Speaking
2015 Animal Talk Series Honey Bee Law 2001 Endangered Species Does Critical Habitat Designation Provide Additional Protection to Endangered Species?
Updated: Apr 28, 2026