Staff Attorney – Roswell

About the role

New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) provides civil legal services to low-income New Mexicans to promote family and economic stability, helping clients access food, shelter, security, and preserve their unique cultural heritages. Staff Attorneys are part of the Community Lawyering Model and are responsible for handling civil legal matters and outreach related thereto in areas responsive to community needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice, brief services, and full representation to clients in legal matters.
• Interview clients, assess legal issues, and develop case strategies aligned with applicable law and program priorities.
• Prepare legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and other filings.
• Represent clients in court hearings, administrative proceedings, and appeals as needed.
• Conduct legal research, factual investigation, and discovery to support case development.
• Maintain accurate and timely case files and documentation in accordance with program requirements.
• Manage an active caseload, prioritizing urgent matters and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, and external partners, including co-counsel and community organizations.
• Conduct community outreach and legal education to clients, service providers, and community groups.
• Participate in program initiatives, special projects, and advocacy efforts that support low-income communities.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
• Licensed to practice law in New Mexico, or the ability to become licensed within 6 months of hire.
• Able to manage a caseload and handle multiple priorities effectively.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills and sound legal judgment.
• Able to work independently and with minimal supervision.
• Able to build collaborative relationships with clients, colleagues, and community partners.
• Proficient with computer technology, including remote communication tools, shared online workspaces, and case management systems.
• Willingness and ability to travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Experience working at a civil legal services provider.
• Experience working with low-income or underserved populations.
• Proficiency in Spanish.

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid BCBS medical, plus dental and vision for employees; generous contributions for dependents.
• 3 weeks vacation time, 6 days personal time, plus sick pay, and federal holidays off.
• Comp time for overtime.
• Hybrid work schedule (3 days in office, 2 days remote).
• 37.5-hour work week.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan.

Pay and Schedule

The starting salary for licensed attorneys is $63,376.18 - $100,547.39, with pay determined by years of experience and set by a union scale outlined in the CBA. Click here for more information.

Schedule

This position is part of a collective bargaining agreement negotiated by the union. The position is located in the Roswell office and reports to the Southern Managing Attorney. This position plays a key role in advancing access to justice by addressing legal barriers that impact the day-to-day lives of low-income New Mexicans.