During his career, Vern has served as a district judge, a Supreme Court Justice and Chief Justice of the New Mexico Supreme Court. He has also lectured at multiple law schools, the National college for Trial Judges, and Indian tribal courts. He has an advanced legal degree in the Judicial Process from the University of Virginia 

A pioneer in technological advancement in the courtroom, Vern consulted for the World Bank and U.S.A.I.D., as well as for computer software companies around the world. He has an entrepreneurial spirit and has worked with companies in construction, real estate, online marketing, ecommerce, and many more. 

Vern loves to work. He has always loved the law practice, and came by it naturally from his father, who was a Federal judge. He can almost always be found in the office or watching seminars and conferences on different law specialties. Some say his brain never stops working, even when he’s asleep! 

Vern and his wife Yerda have 8 children, 33 grandchildren, and over 20 great grandchildren. He loves his family and spends as much time with them as possible. He loves to tell stories and teach his children and grandchildren. 

He and his wife served as volunteers for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints for three years as Mission presidents in the Canary Islands of Spain, and three years as President and Matron of the Albuquerque New Mexico Temple.