Biography
Attorney Joanne Craighead is a native of Manchester, New Hampshire, who has dedicated nearly 40 years to serving her community through compassionate and expert legal counsel. In 1992, she co-founded Craighead & Martin, PLLC with her late husband, Rodkey Craighead, building a firm centered on the belief that every client deserves personalized attention and a clear path forward.
Joanne’s deep roots in the region and her unique professional background set her apart. Before beginning her legal career, she became a licensed real estate broker at age 19, a foundation that continues to inform her specialized work in real estate law and complex estate planning.
Education & Admissions
- Juris Doctor: UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law (1986)
- Bachelor of Arts: Notre Dame College (1983)
- Admissions: New Hampshire Bar (1987)
Community & Language
A proud member of the local community, Joanne is fluent in both English and French, allowing her to provide accessible legal services to a diverse clientele. She has served for many years as the Secretary for the Board of Trustees of the Franco-American Centre and has contributed her expertise to the United States Commission on Civil Rights and various NH Bar Association committees.
When she is not assisting clients, Joanne lives in Manchester with her two sons and enjoys traveling, walking, and reading.
Practice Areas
- Estate Planning
- Probate Estate Administration
- Real Estate
Education
- University of New Hampshire - Franklin Law Center, Concord, New Hampshire
- J.D. - 1986
- Notre Dame College
- B.A. - 1983
- Major: Paralegal Studies
Bar Admissions
- New Hampshire, 1987
Professional Associations
- Hillsborough County Women’s Bar Association
- Franco-American Centre
Pro-Bono Activities
- Franco-American Centre , 2015 to Present
- The US Civil Rights Commission
Past Positions
- Raiche, Clark, Kenna & Johnston, Attorney, 1987 to 1989
- Kenna, Johnston, Craighead & Sharkey, Attorney, 1989 to 1992
Languages
- English
- French