Samantha H. Catalano
Associate

In addition to her legal experience, Samantha brings a unique scientific perspective to her practice, having previously worked in medical administration and research. Proficient in legal research and statistical analysis, Samantha’s diverse background and interdisciplinary approach enable her to provide clients with innovative solutions to complex legal issues.

Recently, Samantha and the firm’s Santa Fe team prevailed in a rulemaking hearing before the New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board opposing substantial fee increases proposed by the New Mexico Environment Department. The increase in air quality permit and annual fees that would have approximately tripled the already high fees imposed to clients, costing one client alone nearly $1 million. The team represented the New Mexico Mining Association, and conducted investigations and presented testimony that ultimately convinced the Board to unanimously deny the fee increases.

While earning her J.D. from the University of New Mexico School of Law, she served as the Professional Articles Editor for the New Mexico Law Review, tutored Criminal and Constitutional Law, worked for the New Mexico Innocence and Justice Project, and earned multiple CALI Awards and the Leo M. Romero Criminal Justice Award. Graduating summa cum laude and Order of the Coif, Samantha also engaged in community and philanthropic activities, including as President and Treasurer of the Student Animal Legal Defense Fund, and on the Board of the Animal Law Section of the New Mexico State Bar, where she currently serves as YLD Liaison.

Before pursuing a legal career, Samantha worked in laboratory research, managed surgical practices, and worked as a Veterinary Technician. She graduated with Honors from New Mexico State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and studied Neuroscience and Spanish at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania, where she was a Distinguished Alden Scholar. She is fluent in Spanish.

When she is not advocating for clients, Samantha enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband, daughter, and rescue dog, Chester.