Jacob Payne

Jacob Payne is a senior counsel in our New Mexico offices and a member of both our Fire Litigation and our Personal Injury and Wrongful Death practice groups. An accomplished trial attorney, Mr. Payne served the people of New Mexico as a government lawyer in multiple capacities before bringing his litigation skills and public entity experience to Singleton Schreiber. 

Just a few short years after beginning his career in the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s office, Mr. Payne was recognized as Drug Prosecutor of the Year by the New Mexico State Bar. He was later appointed by Governor Susana Martinez to serve as General Counsel for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, where he gained experience in public regulations, natural resource management, the Endangered Species Act, land use, and water law. When Mr. Payne returned to Albuquerque to once again prosecute crime, he led the district attorney’s largest felony division, overseeing dozens of lawyers and support staff while serving as law enforcement liaison. 

A native of New Mexico and the son of a New Mexico State Police Officer, Mr. Payne grew up in Lordsburg, Gallup, and the Albuquerque/Santa Fe areas. After earning an undergraduate degree from the University of New Mexico, Mr. Payne attended the University of Tulsa College of Law, where he graduated with highest honor. He is admitted to practice in all state and federal courts in New Mexico and the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals.  

In his free time, Mr. Payne enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. He and his family can often be found outside, engaging in activities like kayaking and backpacking that allow them to appreciate the natural beauty of New Mexico.

2015 Drug Prosecutor of the Year, New Mexico State Bar Prosecutor’s Section

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