Daniel A. Sanchez

Daniel A. Sanchez is a member of Waggoner Legal Group in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with more than 32 years of legal experience. His practice focuses primarily on natural resources, with particular emphasis on water issues, and also includes civil litigation involving personal injury and governmental law. Sanchez previously served on the First Judicial District Court bench, where he handled primarily civil cases. His combined judicial and litigation background informs his approach to disputes involving complex records, public law, and resource management.

Sanchez earned a B.S. from the University of New Mexico and a J.D. from Antioch School of Law. He also attended the National Judicial College at the University of Nevada, Reno. His education and judicial training provided a foundation for evaluating evidence, applying procedural rules, and addressing legal questions that arise in natural resources and civil cases. The combination is especially relevant to water matters, which often involve technical facts, administrative processes, historical rights, and competing public and private interests.

Sanchez has extensive experience in water rights litigation and has served both as a litigator and as a special master. He was appointed by the New Mexico Supreme Court to serve as a Water Law Judge for the district, adding judicial experience specifically focused on this specialized area. His work also extends to personal injury and governmental disputes. In addition to handling cases, he has given presentations on courtroom etiquette and trial advocacy, drawing on years of experience from both sides of the bench.

Daniel A. Sanchez has served in leadership within the New Mexico District Judge’s Association, including as vice president, and has maintained long-standing involvement with youth programs. His legal practice combines the perspective of a former judge with substantial experience in natural resources, water law, and civil litigation. He helps clients and other participants navigate matters that require careful factual development, knowledge of governmental processes, and a disciplined understanding of courtroom procedure.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Waggoner Legal Group
• Member, State Bar of New Mexico
• Retired Judge, First Judicial District Court
• Vice President, New Mexico District Judge’s Association

Licensed State

• New Mexico

Education

• Antioch School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of New Mexico
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges