Donald A. DeCandia

Of Counsel

As one of only 3 New Mexico attorneys designated in 2022 as a Southwest Super Lawyer® in the area of Products Liability Defense, Don DeCandia draws on more than 30 years of experience in zealously representing clients at both trial and appellate levels. Don is proud to have joined the Hartline team in 2019 and assisted the firm in opening its Albuquerque and Santa Fe offices, having spent his entire career practicing in New Mexico Courts. Don focuses primarily on the areas of products liability, tort and personal injury, and ERISA litigation. He has litigated complex commercial cases and class actions and has a depth of experience in appellate work. Don believes that listening and attention to detail are key components of a successful practice. He maintains close communications with client contacts to ensure that informed judgment guides key decisions. Don has achieved the highest rating possible from Martindale-Hubbell and is recognized by Best Lawyers in America® and Southwest Super Lawyers®.

Don has handled scores of products liability cases in the vehicle context, including the defense of several tire manufacturers in tire failure litigation. He has also represented building product and power tool manufacturers, and his practice includes insurance bad faith cases and premises liability matters. Many of his cases involve claims for wrongful death and serious personal injury.

Don’s extensive experience in ERISA litigation includes representation of life, health and disability insurers, HMOs, self-funded plans, plan sponsors, plan administrators, pension plans and third-party administrators.

Telephone: 505.336.5291
Fax: 505.336.5316
ddecandia@hartlinebarger.com
141 E. Palace Ave
Garden Level, Suite #2
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501

Curriculum Vitae

  • Education
    University of Texas School of Law, J.D. 1989
    University of Notre Dame, B.A. English (cum laude) 1986
  • Bar & Court Admissions
    New Mexico
    U.S. Supreme Court
    U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit
    U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico
  • Honors & Awards
    • Listed in The Best Lawyers in America®, Commercial Litigation, by Woodward/White, Inc. (2018-present)
    • Listed in The Best Lawyers in America®, Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants, by Woodward/White, Inc. (2022-present)
    Southwest Super Lawyers® by Thompson Reuters (2011-2022)
    • Rated AV Preeminent by Martindale Hubbell
  • Professional Affiliations & Activities
    • Defense Research Institute
    • New Mexico Defense Lawyers Association – Former Co-Editor and Editorial Board Member of NMDLA’s publication Defense News
    • Board of Directors, Animal Humane Association of New Mexico, 1996-2004
    • Member, Animal Welfare Board for City of Albuquerque, 2003-2005