Capital Crimes Trial Attorney

This position will require substantial travel throughout the state of New Mexico.

To provide professional legal services for the Law Offices of the Public Defender (LOPD) in representing juvenile and adult indigent clients in areas of litigation, appeal, counsel, research and analysis.

LOPD represents clients in criminal courts and defends clients when they are accused of committing criminal offenses. LOPD attorneys represent and afford clients with due process in juvenile, magistrate, metropolitan, District courts, Court of Appeals and Supreme Court of NM in criminal cases. They meet with clients, file and argue motions, investigate cases, interview witnesses, proceed to trial and file any necessary appeals. The LOPD strives to holistically represent clients and address socio-economic issues that affect a clients' future and reduce recidivism rates. They research the rules of procedure and rules of evidence.

They file motions and summarize cases to judges and present the facts to juries. They prepare legal briefs and file appeals in state courts of appeal. They analyze the probable outcomes of cases, using knowledge derived from investigation and caselaw to discuss whether a client should enter into a plea or go to trial. The appellate division listens to the record and determines if errors have been made by the lower courts based on their knowledge of the law.

JOB EXPECTATIONS:
The Trial Attorney in Capital Crimes handles complex and difficult first degree murder cases throughout the state that often include child abuse resulting in death.
The attorney is required to co-counsel and provide direction, training and assistance to lower level attorneys.
May be required to direct, coordinate and supervise less experienced attorneys, other professionals and clerical staff.
Conducts legal research/analysis of laws, precedents, legal issues, rules of

procedure and evidence in preparation of cases.
Independently reviews and investigates client cases to determine legal position and legal strategy.
Prepares for litigation and appeal through initiation of legal documents, review of case information, obtaining evidence, conducting interviews and preparation of witnesses to testify without direct supervision.
Researches changes in laws, legislation, rules, court decisions, and case precedents to determine/anticipate legal problems and propose resolutions.
Drafts/reviews, proposes and prepares reports, memoranda in opposition, briefs, legal documents, motions, correspondence, and appeals for clients without direct supervision.
Independently counsels and advises clients regarding pleadings, arraignments, trials, and appeals.
Represents the client in legal matters, such as motions, hearings, litigation and appeals.
Explains, interprets and keeps client informed on changes in law, court decisions, legal issues and problems without direct supervision.
Attends seminars, training classes and reviews current professional literature to maintain and develop professional skill and knowledge.
Conducts plea bargaining with District Attorneys and other parties to establish agreements to resolve cases when appropriate.
Follows through on case by ensuring client has copies of paperwork and understands the court's decisions. (we are not involved with client payments.)
Performs related work as required.
Default FLSA: Exempt

Geographic Pay Differential: This position may qualify for Geographic Pay Differential. Please refer to the LOPD website, Geographic Differential, for more information.

The Law Offices of the Public Defender is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis on 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.

This job advertisement may be used to fill multiple vacancies.

APPLICATIONS MAY BE FILED ONLINE AT:
http://www.lopdnm.us/