ADMINISTRATIVE AND REGULATORY LAW

            Cuddy & McCarthy, LLP represents clients in proceedings before federal and state agencies and departments and on matters involving the regulations administered by those entities.  For example, in the context of client representation in the substantive areas of practice identified in this brochure, the Cuddy & McCarthy Law Firm appears before administrative agencies in New Mexico, including the Public Regulation Commission, State Human Rights Division, State Board of Education, Public Employees Labor Relations Board, the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and local zoning and land use authorities. 

            The Cuddy & McCarthy Law Firm has extensive experience in proceedings before the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission in the various areas regulated by that Agency – corporations, fire marshal, insurance, public utilities, pipeline safety, and transportation.  For example, the Cuddy & McCarthy Law Firm represents gas, water, electric, and telecommunications companies in proceedings involving rate changes, rulemaking, and complaints.  The Cuddy & McCarthy Law Firm has also represented these and other companies in registering and obtaining necessary licenses and in complying with applicable operating rules and regulations.   

            The Cuddy & McCarthy Law Firm has litigated matters before the administrative agencies, as well as against the administrative agency when an agency’s decision is adverse to the client.  The Firm litigated against the New Mexico Human Services Department on behalf of a class of clients seeking Medicaid withheld funds.  In addition, it assisted several state agencies with the development and implementation of their rules and policies.

             Partner Patrick Ortiz served for over 18 years as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary to PNM Resources, Inc., an energy holding company with public utility operations in New Mexico and Texas.  During his 33 year legal career, he has been involved in matters related to all areas of regulatory authority under the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission and its predecessors, including serving as a commissioner on the former New Mexico Public Service Commission. His experience includes overseeing all legal matters that can affect a publicly traded company, including governance, litigation, commercial transactions and general business and corporate law matters.  As do other members of the firm, Mr. Ortiz believes in prevention and being a problem-solver for the client.  Prior to joining PNM, Mr. Ortiz was employed by U S WEST Communications as Chief Counsel-New Mexico. 

            This extensive representation permits the Cuddy & McCarthy Law Firm attorneys to access government information and personnel in a manner that permits expeditious and informal resolutions.  It also makes the Cuddy & McCarthy Law Firm attorneys uniquely qualified to appear in state and federal courts on administrative and regulatory issues.

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