Remote Public Defender — Advocate for the Underdog

New Mexico State Personnel Office; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 87,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

The New Mexico Law Offices of the Public Defender in Albuquerque seeks attorneys to join the felony team and advocate for indigent clients. This role offers exposure to extensive courtroom and litigation work across juvenile and adult cases.

Qualified candidates are licensed in NM or eligible for a limited license, with at least one year of practice, and a valid driver’s license. A competitive hourly differential and a relocation-friendly environment are noted.

Qualifications

• Current licensure as an attorney issued by the New Mexico Supreme Court or eligible for limited license.
• One year of experience as a practicing attorney.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in misdemeanors, juvenile cases and low to medium level felonies with limited supervision.
• Provide guidance and mentoring to lower level Attorneys and Law Clerks.
• Conduct plea bargaining with District Attorneys and other parties to resolve cases.
• Attend seminars and training to maintain and develop legal skills.
• Draft/review reports and legal documents.
• Meet with clients, file and argue motions, interview witnesses, proceed to trial and file necessary appeals.
• Analyze probable outcomes of cases to decide on plea or trial.
• Appellate Division reviews records and researches to support arguments of errors.

Skills

Courtroom experience

Litigation

Appeals

Legal research

Indigent defense

Education

Juris Doctor degree

Bar admission in NM

Job description

The New Mexico Law Offices of the Public Defender in Albuquerque seeks attorneys to join the felony team and advocate for indigent clients. This role offers exposure to extensive courtroom and litigation work across juvenile and adult cases.

Qualified candidates are licensed in NM or eligible for a limited license, with at least one year of practice, and a valid driver’s license. A competitive hourly differential and a relocation-friendly environment are noted.