About Trent A.

Trent A — Howell is a seasoned employment and whistleblower attorney based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. With over 28 years of legal experience, he specializes in complex workplace cases, including discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. His practice encompasses both plaintiff and defendant representation, navigating the details of federal and state courts, as well as agency proceedings and arbitrations throughout New Mexico. This extensive background allows him to approach cases with a knowledge of the legal field. Mr. Howell earned his Bachelor of Arts in English with Special Honors from the University of Texas in 1994. He continued his academic journey at the University of Texas School of Law, where he obtained his Juris Doctor in 1997.

During his time in law school, he was inducted into the Board of Advocates and represented the institution at the National Labor and Employment Law Moot Court in 1996. This early involvement in advocacy laid the foundation for his future career in employment law. Following law school, Mr. Howell began his legal career as an associate attorney in 1997 — His dedication and skill led him to advance to partner positions in 2002 and 2010. By 2012, he had established his own practice, further solidifying his commitment to serving clients in employment law matters. His professional journey includes tenure at two of the world’s largest law firms, Jackson Lewis and Holland & Hart. He developed his expertise in employment law and gained valuable insights into both sides of workplace disputes.

Throughout his career, Mr. Howell has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the field of employment law. He has been listed in Best Lawyers in America® for Employment Law – Individuals and was honored with the Outstanding Young Lawyer of the Year award from the State Bar of New Mexico in 2001. Additionally, he has been named a Southwest Super Lawyer in Employment Litigation and recognized by Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business. These recognitions reflect his commitment to excellence and his impact on the legal community. Active in various professional organizations, Mr. Howell is a member of the American Bar Association, the Defense Research Institute, and the New Mexico Defense Lawyers Association.

He has served on the Board of Bar Commissioners for the State Bar of New Mexico, contributing to the governance of the legal profession. In addition to his professional commitments, he participates in community initiatives, such as coaching for the Rio Rapids Northern Soccer Club. Outside of work, Mr. Howell is an avid trail runner, having completed numerous challenging runs, including the New York City Marathon. This focus on endurance sports mirrors his approach to legal practice—persistent and dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for his clients.

Education

University of Texas School of Law

1997

University of Texas

1994

Languages

French (Spoken)

Experience

Owner

Lawyer Trent A. Howell
2012

Partner

Jackson Lewis
2010

Partner

Holland & Hart LLP
2002

Associate

Gilkey & Stephenson
2000

Associate

O Brien & Associates
1997

Accepted Jurisdictions

10th Circuit
New Mexico
Texas

Court Admissions

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit U.S. Circuit Court · Admitted 1997
U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico U.S. District Court · Admitted 1997
Supreme Court of New Mexico State Supreme Court · Admitted 1997
Court of Appeals of New Mexico State Appeals Court · Admitted 1997
All District Courts in all Counties of New Mexico State Trial Court · Admitted 1997

Types of Cases Handled

Employment Litigation Whistleblower Cases Discrimination Harassment Retaliation

Legal Services Scope

Trial Appellate Agency Proceedings Arbitration

Certifications & Awards

Employment & Labor Law Specialist (2005 - 2010)

New Mexico Board of Legal Specialization

Employment & Labor Law Specialist (2017 - 2021)

New Mexico Board of Legal Specialization

Professional Associations

Defense Research Institute

Current

International Association of Defense Counsel

Current

New Mexico Defense Lawyers Association

Current

American Bar Association

Current

National Women’s Law Center Legal Network for Gender Equity

has membership 2017 - Current

New Mexico Defense Lawyers Association

has membership, Board of Directors 2010 - 2013

State Bar of New Mexico

has membership, Board of Bar Commissioners 2002 - 2003

New Mexico Young Lawyers Division

Chair, Board of Directors 2002 - 2003

Office Locations

Main Office

 P.O. Box 2304 Santa Fe NM 87504

Office 2

  Albuquerque

Office 3

  Rio Rancho

Office 4

  Las Cruces

Office 5

  Roswell

Office 6

  Farmington

Office 7

  Los Alamos

Office 8

  Las Vegas

Office 9

  Espanola

Office 10

  Taos