Public Defender 2 (33231)

About the role

The objective summary of this job classification is to provide professional legal services for the Law Offices of the Public Defender in representing juvenile and adult indigent clients in areas of litigation, appeal, counsel, research and analysis.

Responsibilities

• Handle a variety of cases, including misdemeanor, juvenile, youthful offender or appellate cases.
• Assist higher level Attorneys with complex cases.
• Counsel and advise clients regarding case strategy and possible outcomes.
• Conduct plea bargaining with District Attorneys and other parties to establish agreements to resolve cases.
• Attend seminars, training classes, and review current professional literature to maintain and develop professional skills and knowledge.
• Draft and review reports and legal documents.

Requirements

• License to practice law in New Mexico, or eligible for a limited license issued by NM Supreme Court.
• Valid driver's license.
• Employment eligibility to work with the Law Offices of the Public Defender in the U.S.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 15 years of experience as a practicing attorney.
• Experience working as a Magistrate or Criminal Litigation Attorney.
• Experience preparing and arguing motions.
• Additional legal related experience (internship, law clerk).
• Experience working with marginalized populations such as indigent individuals, immigrants, and those living in homelessness or with mental health and/or substance abuse issues.

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in legal research and writing.

Benefits

• Flexible work opportunities, including teleworking and work schedules outside the typical 8 am to 5 pm schedule.
• Retirement plan and medical program for retirees.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Third Party Administrator (TPA) for benefits administration.

Pay

This position qualifies for an additional hourly pay differential of $0.76 hourly / $1,580.80 annually.

Schedule

Flexibility in work schedule is offered.

Qualifications

• Current licensure as an attorney by the Supreme Court of New Mexico.
• Eligible for a limited license issued by NM Supreme Court.
• Valid driver's license.
• Employment eligibility to work with the Law Offices of the Public Defender in the U.S.

Other Duties

• May assist higher level Attorneys with complex cases.
• Advise and counsel clients regarding case strategy and possible outcomes.
• Conduct plea bargaining, when appropriate, with District Attorneys and other parties to establish agreements to resolve cases.
• Attend seminars, training classes, and review current professional literature to maintain and develop professional skills and knowledge.
• Drafts/reviews, proposes and prepares reports and legal documents.

Preferences

• Multilingual applicants fluent in English and other languages.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Law Offices of the Public Defender is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, spousal affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, political affiliation or religion, mental or physical disability, or serious medical condition.