A Trauma-Informed Approach to Protection
At Towanda Law, every decision begins with one guiding question: What will best preserve autonomy while keeping the person safe?
We believe in prevention where possible, guardianship only when necessary, and compassion always. Our role is to recommend the least-restrictive legal pathways that still ensure essential protection.
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When court involvement is necessary, Kati Coppler serves as Guardian ad Litem to ensure the individual’s rights, voice, and dignity remain central to every decision.
Guardian ad Litem Services for Adult Guardianship Cases
Towanda Law Firm provides court-trusted Guardian ad Litem (GAL) services throughout New Mexico. Led by attorney and Master of Social Work (MSW) candidate Kati Coppler, we deliver clear, trauma-informed recommendations that balance personal autonomy with legal protection.
About Kati Coppler
At Towanda Law, I focus on helping adults remain safe, supported, and in control of their own lives. My work spans court-appointed Guardian ad Litem (GAL) services and preventive planning tools that promote autonomy through least-restrictive measures.
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As both an attorney and Master of Social Work (MSW) candidate specializing in trauma-responsive practice, I combine legal precision with a person-centered lens that honors dignity, voice, and choice. Each case begins with a simple question: What will best preserve autonomy while keeping the person safe?
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My commitment is to protect rights, preserve dignity, and recommend the least-restrictive alternatives possible while equipping courts and families with clear, actionable information. Whether advocating in guardianship proceedings or drafting Supported Decision-Making Agreements, Powers of Attorney, Advance Health-Care Directives, or Wills, my goal is always the same — to strengthen individual autonomy through compassionate and practical legal support.
How It Works
1) Intake & Scope
We clarifiy the issues, deadlines, and records required to inform a balanced evaluation.
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2) Investigation
We meet with the person, family, and key providers and review medical, psychological, and social records in coordination with Court Visitors and qualified professionals.
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3) Report & Testimony
We prepare concise, least-restrictive recommendations supported by a comprehensive written report and, when needed, I provide Court testimony.
We are dedicated to promoting the well-being and security of our clients by offering expert legal services that prioritize their unique needs and ensure a dignified future.
Additional Services Supporting Autonomy
In many guardianship cases, the best protection of rights begins long before court involvement.
Towanda Law provides autonomy-preserving legal tools that help adults and families plan ahead, retain choice, and ensure safety through least-restrictive measures. These services reflect the same trauma-informed philosophy that guides all Guardian ad Litem work.
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Supported Decision-Making (SDM) Agreements
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Formalize who helps and how—allowing individuals to stay in charge of their own choices while identifying trusted supporters.
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Powers of Attorney (Medical & Financial)
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Appoint decision-makers who can assist when needed, with clear scope and protective boundaries that preserve independence.
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Advance Health-Care Directives (AHCD)
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Document preferences for medical care and appoint a representative to ensure your wishes are honored in any health situation.
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Psychiatric Advance Directives (APHCD / PAD)
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Outline treatment preferences, medications, and crisis plans to reduce coercion and maintain autonomy during mental-health care.
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Simple Wills & Beneficiary Planning
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Clarify how personal assets and belongings will be handled—reducing conflict and honoring dignity beyond life.
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