The Client Attorney Assistance Program (CAAP) is designed to serve members and the public with an all-inclusive intake approach to complaints, which cooperates with and refers to the Peer Assistance Program, the Disciplinary Board, Fee Arbitration Program, Client Protection Commission, Lawyers Assistance and other programs.
CAAP accepts complaints, investigates allegations, and screens for referral to an appropriate entity of the State Bar. Contact CAAP at caap@nmbar.org, or call (505) 797-6050.
CAAP:
receives and mediates on an informal basis client complaints that do not rise to the level of seriousness to merit intervention by the Disciplinary Board;
provides staff support to the Fee Arbitration Service in handling disputes between clients and attorneys regarding attorney fees;
processes complaints appropriate for referral through the Peer Assistance program;
processes claims against the Client Protection Commission and makes recommendations to the Board of Bar Commissioners regarding payment; and
as time permits, responds to general inquiries from the public about the courts, attorneys, and legal processes.