Senior Trial Attorney

Third Judicial District Attorney's Office; Las Cruces (NM); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Third Judicial District Attorney's Office in Las Cruces, New Mexico is seeking a licensed attorney to prosecute criminal and non-criminal cases. The position requires a minimum of four years of experience in criminal law and the ability to supervise and mentor junior attorneys. Strong trial skills and effective communication are essential.

The role includes handling a range of criminal cases, training law enforcement, and participating in community outreach. The work environment can include office, courtroom, and community settings.

Qualifications

• Minimum four years as a practicing attorney in criminal law or three years as a prosecuting attorney.
• Ability to work independently with minimal consultation.
• Comprehensive knowledge of rules of evidence and criminal procedure.

Responsibilities

• Prosecute criminal and non-criminal cases.
• Handle all levels of crimes and lead trial teams.
• Provide supervision and mentoring to other attorneys and staff.

Skills

Knowledge of criminal prosecution

Trial skills

Public relations

Effective communication

Research and analysis

Supervision and organization

Education

Licensed attorney in New Mexico

Job description

Purpose

This position provides for the prosecution of criminal and non‑criminal cases.

Supervision

Incumbent receives general supervision from the assigned supervisor. Incumbent may provide supervision of employees and units (such as domestic violence unit). May provide input on employee development, discipline, etc.

Examples of Work Performed

Incumbent may handle all levels of crimes. May undertake special projects such as community education projects and law enforcement training. Leads or assists in trial teams; performs other non-prosecution duties as assigned; supervises or mentors other attorneys and/or staff, performs training for staff and law enforcement; works with law enforcement at crime scenes; performs non-prosecution duties such as community outreach; participates on boards and task forces and other groups assigned; performs other related job duties; complex felony work may be under supervision.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is an advanced level position of the attorney series. The incumbent may demonstrate the ability to progress to the next level by acquiring relevant experience.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in office, courtroom and community environments. Some physical effort and travel may be required. Incumbent may be required to work under stressful situations and/or conditions. Incumbent may be required to go to crime scenes.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

This position requires comprehensive and current knowledge and skills in the areas of criminal prosecution, rules of evidence and rules of criminal procedure; public relations; organization and supervision; basic computer skills including working knowledge of office systems; fully effective trial skills; ability to draft legal documents; ability to work effectively with other criminal agencies; ability to communicate effectively; ability to research/analyze information and situations. Works independently with minimal consultation with supervisors (except for higher profile or complex cases). Significant prosecutorial discretion on cases within assigned case load.

Requirements

Licensed attorney to practice law in New Mexico plus a minimum of four (4) years as a practicing attorney in criminal law or three (3) years as a prosecuting attorney.

Preferred Qualifications

Five (5) to seven (7) years or more of relevant prosecution experience.