James M. Burson
Associate

Prior to joining the Firm, Mr. Burson worked for the New Mexico Public Defender’s Office. In addition, he practiced with Quinlan, Bloom & Associates in Alamogordo, New Mexico, representing the Mescalero Apache Tribe. He is an experienced litigator in Federal District Court, Federal Court of Claims, and state trial and appellate courts.

Mr. Burson’s diverse experience includes natural resource protection and development, including transactional and litigation work in forestry, water, real estate, and land use issues. His economic development experience encompasses several aspects of the recreation and entertainment industry including gaming and lodging. His governmental development experience embraces areas such as infrastructure improvement, taxation, tribal court, education, children’s issues, and lobbying. He has participated aggressively in litigation to protect cultural heritage and federal trust accountability.

Mr. Burson is admitted to practice in New Mexico state and federal courts as well as Oklahoma federal courts. He is a member of Federal Bar Association, American Bar Association, American Trial Lawyers Association, and has served as Past-president of the 12th Judicial District Bar Association in Alamogordo, New Mexico.

Mr. Burson served as a fire chief, city trustee, and mayor of the Village of Magdalena, New Mexico. In 1996, the National Association of Towns and Townships recognized him as one of the Top 100 local government leaders in America. In addition, he has also worked as a music teacher for the Alamo Navajo School Board in Alamo, New Mexico.
Mr. Burson earned his Juris Doctorate in 1999 from the University of New Mexico. During his study of law, he qualified for a Certificate in Natural Resources Law and a Certificate in Indian Law, acted as the Lead Articles editor for the Natural Resources Journal, and received recognition for his advocacy from the Southwest Indian Law Clinic.

E-mail: jburson@hsdwok.com

Phone: (405) 602-9425

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