Attorney

About the Role

The Public Regulation Commission ("PRC") consists of three Commissioners appointed by the Governor and is responsible for regulating public utilities as mandated by law. This position provides legal counsel and services to the Utility Division and other divisions, as well as to the Commission at large in matters not involving contested proceedings. The primary focus is litigating cases before the Commission on behalf of the Utility Division.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal services to the Utility Division in docketed proceedings before the Commission, including litigation.
• Prepare expert witnesses to testify and/or review written testimony for presentation in cases before the Commission.
• Advise the Commission and other divisions on legal issues outside of contested proceedings, such as the Inspection of Public Records Act.
• Complete other assigned responsibilities as needed.

Customers

The Legal Division represents the Utility Division in matters before the PRC, including litigation. It may also provide legal services to other divisions and the Agency in non-contested matters.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate should have litigation experience, including civil and/or criminal litigation. Desired skills and experience include:

• Regulatory law experience.
• Strong legal research and writing abilities.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Experience in court, presenting, defending, and cross-examining witnesses (both lay and expert).
• Familiarity with civil discovery and motion practice.
• Experience taking and/or defending depositions.
• Case management and balancing priorities, including meeting deadlines effectively.
• Utility regulation experience is helpful but not necessary.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited school of law.
• Must be licensed as an attorney by the Supreme Court of New Mexico or obtain a limited law license within six (6) months of hire (See Rule 15-304 NMRA). Individuals pursuing the limited law license may not engage in the practice of law until the license is granted.
• All Attorney classifications must remain licensed as an attorney, in good standing, by the Supreme Court of New Mexico, or licensed by the highest court of another state and eligible for a limited license pursuant to Rules 15-301.1 and 15-301.2 NMRA.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in an office setting.
• Late hours, weekends, on-call, and callback work may be required.
• Regular exposure to video display terminals and keyboard usage.
• Exposure to stressful situations and frequent time constraints.
• Travel is required.
• Possible exposure to irate clientele.