Losing a loved one because of someone else’s actions is devastating . In the aftermath, families are often left with unanswered questions, legal uncertainty , and responsibilities they did not expect to face.
When a death may have been preventable, you deserve a top-notch, local legal team-one that approaches the situation with care, professionalism, and a clear focus on accountability and resolution.
505 Legal represents families across New Mexico in wrongful death matters. We are a modern hometown law firm, rooted in New Mexico and built to handle serious cases through a coordinated legal team – not rushed decisions or impersonal processes.
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You deserve more than rushed answers or one overextended attorney trying to manage everything alone.
We close the gap between how a legal firm should operate and how it often does.
505 Legal was designed to:
This structure allows us to serve individuals and families across New Mexico with clarity, professionalism, and accountability.
Not every loss involves a legal claim. But when negligence, misconduct, or unsafe conditions may have contributed to a death, families are often faced with questions that require legal guidance.
Wrongful death cases may arise from situations such as:
Motor vehicle or trucking accidents
Unsafe property or premises conditions
Medical or institutional negligence
Workplace incidents
Abuse or neglect in care facilities or detention settings
These cases are not about assigning blame lightly. They are about determining whether legal responsibility exists, preserving evidence, and giving families clarity about their options.
Our role is to help you understand whether a wrongful death claim may apply and how to move forward deliberately and respectfully.
Wrongful death cases are complex. They often involve investigations, expert review, coordination with insurers or institutions, and strict legal deadlines.
That’s why 505 Legal operates as a coordinated legal team.
Attorneys responsible for legal strategy and case direction
Paralegals managing records, filings, and timelines
Investigators gathering facts and reviewing circumstances surrounding the loss
Staff coordinating communication and case progression
This team-based approach allows us to handle sensitive matters carefully while ensuring cases move forward with purpose and precision.
This is how a modern hometown law firm handles serious loss.
Could our approach help provide clarity in your situation?
Our team represents families New Mexico in wrongful death claims involving:
Each case begins with a careful review of the facts and applicable law. We focus on accountability, lawful recovery, and respectful handling of every matter.
Wrongful death claims exist to provide accountability and financial recovery for surviving family members. While no legal process can replace a loved one , the law can provide a measure of resolution.
Resolution may involve:
Negotiated settlements
Litigation and court proceedings
Trial, when necessary
Our team works with families to define what resolution looks like for their situation and builds a legal strategy aligned with those goals. We do not make promises or public claims. We focus on careful preparation, professionalism, and clear communication
What would resolution look like for your family?
When you contact our office:
You explain the circumstances surrounding the loss
Our team evaluates whether a wrongful death claim may apply
If appropriate, we outline next steps and begin gathering information
We understand these conversations are difficult.
We approach them with respect, clarity, and a focus on helping families make informed decisions.
State law determines who may file a claim. A Consultation can help clarify eligibilty and next steps.
Strict deadlines apply. Acting promptly helps preserve evidence and legal options.
Many cases resolve through negotiation. Some require litigation depending on the circumstances.
Damages may include economic losses and other lawful recovery. We explain these clearly during consultation.
“What Ken did for us was without question remarkable.”
“We were consistently impressed with the knowledge, thoroughness, and professionalism of the entire team.”
“Working with Shellie was a great experience. She stayed on top of my case, explained every step clearly, and always returned my calls. Her courtroom skills showed, and in the end, I got a better outcome than I expected. I highly recommend her to anyone needing a strong, trustworthy attorney in this area.”
“First of all, a big thank you to Shellie Patscheck and her law firm for helping me get through a very difficult moment in my life. I truly believe I wouldn’t be able to do it all on my own. I thank her for her work on getting me the results I wanted. Just a overall good experience on making things easier & simple for myself. If google review allowed a 10 start rating then it would easily be a 10/10. Thank you Shellie!”
