Newsroom & Articles

The State Bar of New Mexico Celebrates 140 Years of Service 
to the Public and the Legal Profession

Albuquerque, N.M., Jan. 20, 2026 — The State Bar of New Mexico (“the State Bar”) announces its 140^th anniversary, marking 140 years since its establishment in 1886 and highlighting its longstanding role as a foundational institution within New Mexico’s legal infrastructure. 

“For 140 years, from the territorial days to modern times, our Bar Association has been supporting New Mexico Attorneys, assisting the Judiciary and helping the public seeking justice,” State Bar of New Mexico Executive Director Richard B. Spinello remarked. “I’m proud of the work that we do as a profession.”

Pre-dating the State of New Mexico itself, the State Bar was first formed in Santa Fe by a gathering of 20 attorneys from across the territory on Jan. 19, 1886. Since its founding, the State Bar has been guided by principles focused on supporting New Mexico’s legal profession while serving the state’s diverse legal community and the public.

“Celebrating 140 years of the State Bar of New Mexico is a powerful reminder of the role lawyers play in strengthening our legal system and serving the public,” State Bar of New Mexico President Allison H. Block-Chavez stated of the occasion. “For generations, this organization has supported professionalism, access to justice and the Rule of Law. I am honored to help lead the Bar into its next chapter of service and stewardship.”