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.
Specific to the Appellate Division, attorneys at this level carry a heavy appellate caseload and the position is research and writing oriented. The attorney will analyze the probable outcomes of cases based on the appellate record and legal research to advise clients on post-conviction options and remedies. Appellate attorneys consult with clients and trial counsel, review the record, and conduct extensive legal research to identify and litigate errors made in the lower courts. Arguments are presented in written appellate pleadings and through occasional oral argument at the New Mexico Court of Appeals and Supreme Court. Attorneys at this level should be able to represent clients in all misdemeanors, felonies and juvenile cases with limited supervision. Familiarity with the New Mexico Constitution and Criminal Code preferred. Trial experience is not required.
Essential Functions
Positions at this level handle felony cases such as burglaries, drug crimes, property crimes and probation violations with limited supervision.
May handle more complex level felonies with some guidance/direction from a higher level attorney/managing attorney.
Has acquired sufficient knowledge and/or experience to handle an appellate caseload.
Has knowledge and experience to prepare appellate briefs and argue cases before the Court of Appeals and Supreme Court with some direction from higher level Attorneys.
Provides guidance and advice to lower level attorneys.
Works independently and is able to recognize and resolve complex issues related to the caseload.
Will 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.
Performs related and other duties as assigned.
Other Duties:
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Note: An employee with this classification may be required to perform at a PD4 level or duties of a lower classification without additional compensation. Employee will be required to show competence in all levels PD2 through PD4.
Minimum Qualifications
Current license as an attorney issued by the NM Supreme Court or eligible for limited license issued by NM Supreme Court and four (4) years of experience as a practicing attorney.
Employment Requirements
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Collective Bargaining: This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to.
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 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.
This job advertisement may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
All applications must be submitted online at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lopdnm/jobs/2723479/appellate-pub...