Prince, Schmidt, Baca & Woods, LLP has served New Mexico since 1954 when Bert Prince, a native New Mexican, founded the firm shortly after World War II. However, the firm’s New Mexican roots go back even further than the post-war era. Bert’s grandfather, L. Bradford Prince, was the 14th Governor of New Mexico Territory (1889 to 1893) and a Supreme Court Justice.
Despite that proud legacy, our founding partner was born into relatively modest means on a cattle and fruit ranch near Espanola. Bert left the family ranch in Espanola to stay with his grandparents who lived where The Shed, a popular Santa Fe restaurant, is currently located.Bert worked his way through college supporting himself as a furnace stoker.
Over the years, he distinguished himself as one of the best
criminal attorneys in New Mexico. At the time it seemed that everyone in Northern New Mexico knew Bert and considered themselves to be his good friend because of the warm and sincere way he treated those around him.
In 1975 Steve Schmidt joined the firm. He was the first Public Defender in the State of New Mexico and practiced with Bert, trying many jury cases with him until 1980.
After Bert retired, Steve took over the firm, and he continues to represent clients in Northern New Mexico.The land that is now Prince Park was donated to the city of Santa Fe by Bert’s grandfather, Bradford Prince.
Our office is situated between these historic sites — the land where The Shed is currently located and Prince Park, which is the park attached to the Cross of the Martyrs, just across the street from our office. Prince, Schmidt, Baca & Woods, LLP brings this rich heritage into our everyday practice. Bert Prince’s memory and spirit survive through the passion our firm has for helping our fellow New Mexicans.
