Law Office of Jennifer N. Salazar, LLC

Jennifer Salazar

Lead Attorney and Owner

Jennifer is a native New Mexican and the proud mother of two wonderful children. The Law Office of Jennifer N. Salazar, LLC was formed after advocating for her own child with a developmental disability, an experience that shapes the lens through which she practices law. She knows firsthand what it’s like to sit in an IEP meeting, trying to decode acronyms and jargon, and to fight for a child who can’t yet advocate for themselves. Jennifer established her law practice so that no family has to face that process alone. She believes that every family deserves a knowledgeable, compassionate, and committed advocate to advance their child’s right to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE).

Jennifer’s special education practice draws on a 15-year legal career in the public and private sectors. Through her hard work, dedication, honesty, and integrity, she has earned the respect of her clients and colleagues alike. She represents children with disabilities and their families in navigating their rights in public schools, including:

• IEP and 504 plan review, drafting support, and meeting representation;
• Evaluation and eligibility disputes;
• Manifestation determination reviews and discipline/removal defense; and
• IDEA due process complaints, mediations, and hearings.

Jennifer is an active member of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) and completed COPAA’s 12-week intensive special education course for attorneys. She is sincerely committed to improving the lives of youth in the community. She has served as a mentor for law students, as a Big Sister through Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Mexico, and as a youth soccer coach. Jennifer currently serves as a commissioner on the New Mexico Supreme Court’s Commission on Access to Justice, which works to increase meaningful access to the civil justice system in New Mexico.

Jennifer grew up in Santa Fe and graduated from Santa Fe Preparatory School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in government from Claremont McKenna College in California and then returned home to attend the University of New Mexico School of Law. At UNM, Jennifer served as managing editor of the New Mexico Environmental Law Journal and received the Jerrold L. Walden Memorial Award for her commitment to advancing civil liberties.

In her free time, Jennifer enjoys traveling with her husband and two sons, running, hiking, and exploring the beautiful New Mexico landscape.

Jennifer is passionate about advancing educational outcomes for children in New Mexico. She firmly believes that ensuring every child has meaningful access to education creates a more just, equal, and productive society.