At Coleman Injury Law, we are honored to announce a unanimous jury verdict in favor of one of our clients following a complex estate and probate trial involving allegations of undue influence and lack of capacity.

The case centered on whether my client had improperly influenced an elderly New Mexico ranch owner to transfer her property to him, or whether she knowingly and voluntarily made those decisions after decades of friendship, trust, and shared history. After hearing days of testimony, reviewing extensive evidence, and carefully evaluating witness credibility, the jury unanimously found in favor of my client.

This case was about much more than land. It was about honoring a person’s right to make her own decisions and ensuring that those decisions are respected unless the evidence clearly demonstrates otherwise. Our justice system entrusts juries—not assumptions, speculation, or suspicion—to resolve difficult factual disputes like these.

Throughout the trial, the jury heard competing accounts of a relationship that had developed over many years. Ultimately, they concluded that the evidence did not support setting aside the decisions my client had defended throughout the litigation.

We are deeply grateful to the jurors for the time, attention, and dedication they brought to this case. Their unanimous verdict reflects the careful consideration our civil justice system is designed to provide.

Every case reminds us that family relationships are often complex, and that meaningful bonds are not always defined solely by blood. When a person’s wishes are challenged after they are gone, it is essential that those wishes be evaluated based on evidence—not assumptions.

This verdict serves as another reminder of why the right to trial by jury remains one of the cornerstones of our justice system. You can read more about this case here.

If you are involved in a contested probate or estate dispute, having experienced legal counsel can make a meaningful difference. At Coleman Injury Law, we represent clients facing complex estate litigation, including will contests, undue influence claims, disputes over capacity, and other probate matters throughout New Mexico. Every case is unique, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes, but we are committed to protecting our clients’ rights and advocating for them every step of the way. Contact Coleman Injury Law today to discuss your situation and learn how we may be able to help.