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Michelle Hernandez

Attorney/Shareholder at Modrall Sperling

Professional Background

Michelle Hernandez is a distinguished attorney with over 20 years of extensive experience in civil litigation, focusing on various legal areas including products liability, professional liability, and construction defects. Throughout her career, she has garnered a reputation for her adeptness at handling intricate legal issues and successfully advocating for her clients. Michelle's practice covers a broad spectrum of civil litigation, and she has represented multiple product manufacturers in both state and federal courts across New Mexico. Her expertise extends to consumer and industrial product claims, demonstrating her versatility and skill in navigating the nuanced landscape of litigation.

In addition to her work in products liability, Michelle has contributed significantly to appellate matters. Notably, she was part of the appellate team that achieved a landmark victory in overturning a staggering $53 million nursing home verdict—at the time, the largest personal injury verdict in New Mexico's history. This achievement not only reflects her legal acumen but also her commitment to pursuing justice and fairness within the legal system.

Michelle’s legal journey also includes representing clients in a range of commercial disputes, touching on real estate disagreements, contract issues, and will contests. Furthermore, her experience encompasses providing counsel to public entities such as law enforcement agencies and educational institutions, emphasizing her dedication to serving the community through her legal expertise.

Education and Achievements

Michelle Hernandez embarked on her educational journey at The University of New Mexico, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Government. This foundational education provided her with critical insights into the workings of government and law, which she would later apply in her legal career.

Seeking to deepen her understanding of the law, Michelle pursued her Doctor of Law (J.D.) at the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Law. Her education at UCLA not only refined her legal skills but also positioned her as a capable and knowledgeable attorney ready to tackle complex legal challenges.

An exceptional legal practitioner, Michelle's professional achievements have been recognized within the industry, earning her an AV® rating by Martindale-Hubbell, a testament to her professionalism and high ethical standards as recognized by her peers. Furthermore, she has been included in the Bar Register of Preeminent Women Lawyers in 2014, highlighting her status as a leading woman in the legal profession.

Community Involvement and Professional Recognition

Michelle is actively engaged in the legal community beyond her practice. She stands out as one of the few attorneys in New Mexico who is Board Certified as a Health Law Specialist. In this capacity, she has represented healthcare providers, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, nurses, and physicians, defending them in litigation and regulatory matters.

Her vast experience and strategic approach to litigation have empowered her clients to navigate challenging legal landscapes. Michelle is known for instilling confidence through early strategic planning and effective management of litigation processes, enabling her clients to focus on their core business while relying on her for expert legal advice.

In her legal practice, Michelle leverages her exceptional negotiation and communication skills to achieve favorable outcomes for her clients. She understands that the intricacies of civil litigation require not only legal knowledge but also a personable approach, allowing her to build strong relationships with her clients and understand their needs thoroughly.

Personal Background

Born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Michelle Hernandez has a deep connection to the local community. Her family ties throughout Northern New Mexico further enrich her commitment to serving her clients and advocating for justice within the region. Her upbringing has cultivated a strong sense of social responsibility and dedication to advancing the interests of the community she holds dear.

Before joining the esteemed firm of Modrall Sperling, Michelle garnered valuable experience as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Joseph F. Baca, Senior Justice for the New Mexico Supreme Court. This position provided her with unparalleled insight into the judicial process, enhancing her legal reasoning skills and understanding of the court system.

Conclusion

With an impressive career spanning over two decades, Michelle Hernandez stands as a prominent figure in civil litigation, particularly in New Mexico. Her extensive knowledge in various facets of law, combined with her dedication to her clients and community, makes her an invaluable asset in the legal field. Whether representing corporations, public entities, or individual clients, Michelle’s commitment to excellence and pursuit of justice shapes her approach to each case she undertakes. Her accolades and recognitions reflect not only her legal prowess but also her unwavering dedication to upholding the principles of fairness and equity in the law, solidifying her as a respected leader within the legal community.

Related Questions

How did Michelle Hernandez develop her expertise in civil litigation over the past 20 years?
What are the most significant challenges Michelle Hernandez has faced while representing public entities?
In what ways has Michelle Hernandez's education at UCLA contributed to her legal practice today?
What strategies does Michelle Hernandez utilize to effectively manage complex commercial disputes?
Can Michelle Hernandez share insights into her approach when handling appellate matters, particularly in high-stakes cases?
How has Michelle Hernandez's recognition as a Board Certified Health Law Specialist impacted her career trajectory?
What motivated Michelle Hernandez to become an attorney specializing in products liability and professional liability?
How does Michelle Hernandez maintain her strong connections with her Albuquerque community while managing her legal practice?
Michelle Hernandez
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Location

Albuquerque, New Mexico Area